bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of the Mayer—Salovey— Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test: Youth Version—Research Edition
Authors: Peters Christine , Kranzler John H. , Rossen Eric
Published: March 2009

This study examines the criterion-related validity evidence of scores on the Mayer—Salovey—Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test: Youth Version—Research Version. The authors also investigate the relationship between scores on the MSCEIT-YV and chronological age. Results provide initial support for the construct validity of the MSCEIT-YV but also raise questions for future research.
Representative Bureaucracy — What, Why and How?
Authors: Stevens Anne
Published: March 2009

Issues of representation have become increasingly salient in European countries with attempts to find mechanisms to increase the representation of women, including various types of quota and parity legislation. This article examines the extension of the idea to bureaucracies. It looks at two arguments about this extension: should bureaucracies be regarded as places where representation can and should occur, and, even if representation in bureaucracies is regarded as possible, is it desirable. Having concluded that it is both possible and desirable, the article then examines the outworking of the notion of representation within one bureaucracy, the European Commission, on the basis of the considerations applied by feminists to elected representation. The example of the EC illuminates aspects of representative bureaucracy, and supports a normative argument for representation on the basis of symbolic, justice and deliberative arguments even if the agency argument must be nuanced by the need to avoid partiality.
A Status Report on the Health Care Sector in France
Authors: Lalitha N , Guennif Samira
Published: March 2009

Nearly 10 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in France is spent on health care. Twenty per cent of this budget is spent on medicines, more than in many of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries including the US, UK and Canada. The pharmaceutical industry in France is the third largest in Europe and adopted product patents even before the TRIPS agreement. Strict regulatory measures govern the pharmaceutical industry in France. The branded drugs are costlier compared to the generics. In order to control costs and promote generic drugs in the prescription, the government has introduced several regulatory measures, which even other OECD countries have not fully implemented yet. Of the total turnover of the pharmaceutical industry, turnover from the domestic sales has been declining while the exports turnover has been increasing. The balance of trade in pharmaceuticals has been positive. The French have also been filing a large number of patents, second only to the US; and they rank higher than the US in patents granted. In order to compensate the firms for the loss of time in the patent application process, the French government grants a five-year term of exclusivity for companies satisfying certain criteria. Though this could delay the entry of generics, for pharmaceutical companies it provides an extended period of power over the product. The industry has also responded by investing in R&D to improve further. In conclusion, the government plays a significant role in providing health care and regulating the pharmaceutical industry.
p130 Crk-Associated Substrate (CAS) in Vascular Smooth Muscle
Authors: Tang Dale D.
Published: March 2009

Vascular smooth muscle is a key effector in the wall of blood vessels during the pathogenesis of hypertension. Various factors directly elicit smooth muscle cell contraction, migration, growth, and hypertrophy, which lead to the progression of hypertension. Crk-associated substrate (CAS), the first discovered member of the adapter protein CAS family, has recently emerged as a critical cellular component that regulates smooth muscle functions. In this review, the molecular structure and protein interactions of the CAS family members are summarized. Evidence for the role of CAS in the regulation of vascular smooth muscle contractility, cell migration, hypertrophy, and growth is presented. Regulation of CAS by novel tyrosine kinases/phosphatases and unique downstream signaling partners of CAS are also discussed. These new findings establish the important role for CAS in regulating vascular smooth muscle functions. The CAS-associated processes may be new biological targets for the development of new treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension.
Composition of Household Dust in Semi-urban Areas in Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Talib Latif  , Mohamed Rozali Othman  , Chong Lee Kim  , Siti Aminah Murayadi  , Khairul Nazri Ahmad Sahaimi
Published: March 2009

A study of household dust composition was conducted in a semi-urban area around Kajang and Bandar Baru Bangi Selangor, Malaysia. Samples of household dust were collected from 31 randomly selected houses using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a changeable dust bag. Parameters analysed were anions (Cl-, SO4 2- , and NO3- ), cations (K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+), and heavy metals (Cd, Fe, Ni, and Pb) to deduce the possible sources and evaluate the toxicity of indoor dust. The concentration of each parameter was compared to the concentration of street dust collected outside the houses. The results showed that the composition of anions was dominated by Cl- followed by SO42- and NO 3-; cations concentration by the sequence of Ca2+ > K + > Mg2+ and for heavy metals concentration, Pb was present in the highest concentration followed by Ni > Fe > Cd > Zn. The study also showed that the concentration of most parameters analyzed were higher in household dust than street dust, suggesting that the composition of household dust is more closely related to indoor activities and the environment.
Developing Culturally Tailored Health Belief-Based Intervention Materials to Improve Child and Parent Participation in a Cardiovascular Screening Program
Authors: Cottrell Lesley , Harris Carole V. , Deskins Shelli , Bradlyn Andrew , Wrye Coffman Jessica
Published: March 2009

The Coronary Artery Risk Detection in Appalachian Communities Project was developed to reduce children’s future cardiovascular risk by implementing a school-based screening program statewide. Despite the elimination of environmental barriers related to screening cost and accessibility, only half of eligible children participate in the program each year. The authors used the theory of planned behavior to identify health beliefs associated with screening participation. This article describes the process used to identify community health beliefs and the development of theoretically based materials to increase participation. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted to identify core health beliefs held by parents, community leaders, and children (Phase I). Data obtained were used to expand and revise a Health Beliefs Questionnaire, which was distributed to larger samples (Phase II). This information was used to design recruitment materials that emphasized the benefits of screening while directly addressing potential belief-based barriers to screening participation (Phase III).
Building psychological resilience in support staff caring for people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Noone Stephen J. , Hastings Richard P.
Published: March 2009

Support staff in intellectual disability services may experience significant work-related stress. The aim of the present study was to pilot an intervention called the Promotion of Acceptance in Carers and Teachers (PACT). Fourteen staff provided data on work stress and general wellbeing before and after attending PACT workshops over 1.5 days. A waiting list control subgroup of six staff also completed measures over a 6 week period. Support staff distress reduced significantly from pre-intervention to follow-up, whereas their reports of work-related stressors increased slightly. Psychological wellbeing and work stress did not change over time in the waiting list sample. Although the study is not tightly controlled, these pilot data suggest that the PACT may have a beneficial effect on staff wellbeing whilst not necessarily directly reducing experience of work stress. Thus, the PACT shows promise as a means of developing psychological resilience in support staff.
Instruments for the detection of depressive symptoms in people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Perez-Achiaga N. , Nelson S. , Hassiotis A.
Published: March 2009

Affective disorders, particularly depression, are common in adults with intellectual disabilities. However the detection of these disorders is hindered by the varied presentation of depressive symptoms across the range of intellectual disability. We undertook a systematic review of the available English-language diagnostic instruments for depressive disorders for adults with all levels of intellectual disability. We appraised the studies based on the instruments' psychometric properties, sensitivity and specificity. We included 21 of 28 identified studies which contained original data on validity and reliability; the `gold standard' ranged from clinical opinion to other established instruments, some of which had limited validation in people with intellectual disability. In view of the benefits of psychological treatments for common mental disorders, it is important to develop instruments to be used in monitoring cognitive as well as behavioural outcomes for people with intellectual disability and depressive disorders.
Blimp1 is limiting for transformation in a mouse plasmacytoma model
Authors: D'Costa Kathy , Emslie Dianne , Metcalf Donald , Smyth Gordon K. , Karnowski Alexander , Kallies Axel , Nutt Stephen L. , Corcoran Lynn M.
Published: March 2009

Multiple myeloma (MM) and plasmacytomas are cancers of antibody-secreting cells (ASCs). PRDM1/BLIMP1 is an essential regulator of ASC development. Histologic evidence shows that 100% of MM expresses PRDM1/BLIMP1, indicating that PRDM1/BLIMP1 is important for the development or persistence of MM. In contrast, some diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCLs) lose PRDM1 expression, suggesting that PRDM1 may act as a tumor suppressor in DLBCL. Thus, the role of PRDM1/BLIMP1 in transformation of mature B cells is unclear. We have used a plasmacytoma-prone transgenic mouse model to study the effect of Blimp1 loss on plasmacytoma prevalence, latency, and phenotype. Two possible outcomes could be envisaged: loss of Blimp1 might decrease plasmacytoma prevalence, through reduction of plasma cells, and so the number of susceptible transformation targets. Alternatively, Blimp1 may participate in the transformation process itself. Our results support the latter scenario, showing that decreasing Blimp1 dosage does not change plasma cell number in nontransgenic mice in vivo, but it significantly reduces plasmacytoma prevalence in transgenic mice. Loss of functional Blimp1 completely prevents plasmacytoma formation in this tumor model. These observations suggest that Blimp1 is limiting for plasma cell transformation and thus has potential as a target for new therapies to combat MM.
Impaired B-cell development at the pre-BII-cell stage in galectin-1–deficient mice due to inefficient pre-BII/stromal cell interactions
Authors: Espeli Marion , Mancini Stéphane J. C. , Breton Caroline , Poirier Françoise , Schiff Claudine
Published: March 2009

Activation of the pre-B-cell receptor (pre-BCR) in the bone marrow depends on both tonic and ligand-induced signaling and leads to pre-BII-cell proliferation and differentiation. Using normal mouse bone marrow pre-BII cells, we demonstrate that the ligand-induced pre-BCR activation depends on pre-BCR/galectin-1/integrin interactions leading to pre-BCR clustering at the pre-BII/stromal cell synapse. In contrast, heparan sulfates, shown to be pre-BCR ligands in mice, are not implicated in pre-BCR relocalization. Inhibition of pre-BCR/galectin-1/integrin interactions has functional consequences, since pre-BII-cell proliferation and differentiation are impaired in an in vitro B-cell differentiation assay, without affecting cellular apoptosis. Most strikingly, although galectin-1–deficient mice do not show an apparent B-cell phenotype, the kinetics of de novo B-cell reconstitution after hydroxyurea treatment indicates a specific delay in pre-BII-cell recovery due to a decrease in pre-BII-cell differentiation and proliferation. Thus, although it remains possible that the pre-BCR interacts with other ligands, these results highlight the role played by the stromal cell–derived galectin-1 for the efficient development of normal pre-BII cells and suggest the existence of pre-BII–specific stromal cell niches in normal bone marrow.
Period 2 regulates neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation in the adult hippocampus
Authors: Borgs Laurence , Beukelaers Pierre , Vandenbosch Renaud , Nguyen Laurent , Moonen Gustave , Maquet Pierre , Albrecht Urs , Belachew Shibeshih , Malgrange Brigitte
Published: March 2009

Background

Newborn granule neurons are generated from proliferating neural stem/progenitor cells and integrated into mature synaptic networks in the adult dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Since light/dark variations of the mitotic index and DNA synthesis occur in many tissues, we wanted to unravel the role of the clock-controlled Period2 gene (mPer2) in timing cell cycle kinetics and neurogenesis in the adult DG.

Results

In contrast to the suprachiasmatic nucleus, we observed a non-rhythmic constitutive expression of mPER2 in the dentate gyrus. We provide evidence that mPER2 is expressed in proliferating neural stem/progenitor cells (NPCs) and persists in early post-mitotic and mature newborn neurons from the adult DG. In vitro and in vivo analysis of a mouse line mutant in the mPer2 gene (Per2

Brdm1
), revealed a higher density of dividing NPCs together with an increased number of immature newborn neurons populating the DG. However, we showed that the lack of mPer2 does not change the total amount of mature adult-generated hippocampal neurons, because of a compensatory increase in neuronal cell death.

Conclusion

Taken together, these data demonstrated a functional link between the constitutive expression of mPER2 and the intrinsic control of neural stem/progenitor cells proliferation, cell death and neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of adult mice.
Amplitude and frequency modulation control of sound production in a mechanical model of the avian syrinx
Authors: Elemans Coen P. H. , Muller Mees , Larsen Ole Næsbye , van Leeuwen Johan L.
Published: March 2009

Birdsong has developed into one of the important models for motor control of learned behaviour and shows many parallels with speech acquisition in humans. However, there are several experimental limitations to studying the vocal organ – the syrinx – in vivo. The multidisciplinary approach of combining experimental data and mathematical modelling has greatly improved the understanding of neural control and peripheral motor dynamics of sound generation in birds. Here, we present a simple mechanical model of the syrinx that facilitates detailed study of vibrations and sound production. Our model resembles the `starling resistor', a collapsible tube model, and consists of a tube with a single membrane in its casing, suspended in an external pressure chamber and driven by various pressure patterns. With this design, we can separately control `bronchial' pressure and tension in the oscillating membrane and generate a wide variety of `syllables' with simple sweeps of the control parameters. We show that the membrane exhibits high frequency, self-sustained oscillations in the audio range (>600 Hz fundamental frequency) using laser Doppler vibrometry, and systematically explore the conditions for sound production of the model in its control space. The fundamental frequency of the sound increases with tension in three membranes with different stiffness and mass. The lower-bound fundamental frequency increases with membrane mass. The membrane vibrations are strongly coupled to the resonance properties of the distal tube, most likely because of its reflective properties to sound waves. Our model is a gross simplification of the complex morphology found in birds, and more closely resembles mathematical models of the syrinx. Our results confirm several assumptions underlying existing mathematical models in a complex geometry.
Mimicking the natural doping of migrant sandpipers in sedentary quails:effects of dietary n-3 fatty acids on muscle membranes and PPAR expression
Authors: Nagahuedi Simba , Popesku Jason T. , Trudeau Vance L. , Weber Jean-Michel
Published: March 2009

Wild semipalmated sandpipers (Calidris pusilla) eat n-3 fatty acids to prime their muscles for long migrations. Sedentary bobwhite quails(Colinus virginianus) were used as a model to investigate the mechanisms for this natural doping. Our goal was to characterize the stimulating effects of n-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and n-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on oxidative capacity. Mechanisms linked to changes in membrane composition and in gene expression for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) were investigated. Dietary n-3 fatty acids stimulated the activities of oxidative enzymes by 58–90% (citrate synthase, cytochrome oxidase, carnitine palmitoyl transferase and hydroxyacyl dehydrogenase), and sedentary quails showed the same changes in membrane composition as sandpipers preparing for migration. EPA and DHA have the same doping effect. The substitution of n-6 arachidonic acid by n-3 EPA in membrane phospholipids plays an important role in mediating the metabolic effects of the diet, but results provide no significant support for the involvement of PPARs (as determined by changes in gene expression). The fatty acid composition of mitochondrial membranes and sarcoplasmic reticulum can be monitored by measuring total muscle phospholipids because all phospholipids are equally affected by diet. Only extreme regimes of endurance training can lead to increments in oxidative capacity matching those induced here by diet. As they prepare for long migrations, semipalmated sandpipers improve their physical fitness by eating! Choosing n-3 fatty acid doping over endurance training strikes us as a better strategy to boost aerobic capacity when rapid storage of energy is critical.
Muscle plasticity of Inuit sled dogs in Greenland
Authors: Gerth Nadine , Sum Steffen , Jackson Sue , Starck J. Matthias
Published: March 2009

This study examined flexible adjustments of skeletal muscle size, fiber structure, and capillarization in Inuit sled dogs responding to seasonal changes in temperature, exercise and food supply. Inuit dogs pull sleds in winter and are fed regularly throughout this working season. In summer, they remain chained to rocks without exercise, receiving food intermittently and often fasting for several days. We studied two dog teams in Northern Greenland(Qaanaaq) where dogs are still draught animals vital to Inuit hunters, and one dog team in Western Greenland (Qeqertarsuaq) where this traditional role has been lost. Northern Greenland dogs receive more and higher quality food than those in Western Greenland. We used ultrasonography for repeated muscle size measurements on the same individuals, and transmission electron microscopy on micro-biopsies for summer–winter comparisons of muscle histology, also within individuals. At both study sites, dogs' muscles were significantly thinner in summer than in winter – atrophy attributable to reduced fiber diameter. Sarcomeres from West Greenland dogs showed serious myofilament depletion and expansion of the sarcoplasmatic space between myofibrils during summer. At both study sites, summer samples showed fewer interfibrillar and subsarcolemmal mitochondria, and fewer lipid droplets between myofibrils, than did winter samples. In summer, capillary density was higher and inter-capillary distance smaller than in winter, but the capillary-to-fiber-ratio and number of capillaries associated with single myofibers were constant. Increased capillary density was probably a by-product of differential tissue responses to condition changes rather than a functional adaptation, because thinning of muscle fibers in summer was not accompanied by reduction in the capillary network. Thus, skeletal muscle of Inuit dogs responds flexibly to changes in functional demands. This flexibility is based on differential changes in functional components: mitochondrial numbers, lipid droplet size, and the number of contractile filaments all increase with increasing workload and food supply while the capillary network remains unchanged.
Molecular Structures on Solid Substrates Probed by Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) Vibration Spectroscopy
Authors: Ye Shen , Osawa Masatoshi
Published: March 2009

Sum frequency generation (SFG) vibration spectroscopy is a powerful tool to study interfacial structures of organic thin films on solid substrates at a molecular level. The unique structural information obtained from SFG is essential to design and control functionalities of surfaces and interfaces. Recent advances in SFG spectroscopy are reviewed.
Synthesis and X-ray Structural Analysis of Hydrido(thiolato) Platinum(II) Complexes
Authors: Nakata Norio , Yamamoto Suzuka , Hashima Wataru , Ishii Akihiko
Published: March 2009

The oxidative addition of [Pt(η2-nb)(PPh3)2] with a sterically hindered thiol, TripSH (4, Trip = 9-triptycyl) in toluene afforded cis-hydrido(thiolato) PtII complex [PtH(STrip)(PPh3)2] (5), as thermally and moisture-stable colorless crystals in 91% yield. Complex 5 was fully characterized by 1H, 13C{1H}, and 31P{1H} NMR and IR spectroscopies, and the molecular structure of 5 was determined by X-ray crystallography.
Molecular Modification of 2,7-Diphenyl[1]benzothieno[3,2-b]benzothiophene (DPh-BTBT) with Diarylamino Substituents: From Crystalline Order to Amorphous State in Evaporated Thin Films
Authors: Izawa Takafumi , Mori Hiroki , Shinmura Yusuke , Iwatani Masahito , Miyazaki Eigo , Takimiya Kazuo , Hung Hsio-Wen , Yahiro Masayuki , Adachi Chihaya
Published: March 2009

Introduction of diarylamino substituents on 2,7-diphenyl[1]benzothieno[3,2-b]benzothiophene (DPh-BTBT) caused morphological change in the evaporated thin-film state: from highly crystalline films with edge-on molecular orientation for DPh-BTBT to amorphous films for the diarylamino derivatives. The former was unsuitable as a hole-transporting layer in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), whereas the latter acted as a superior hole-transporting layer in multilayered OLEDs.
Sleep Problems in Childhood Predict Neuropsychological Functioning in Adolescence
Authors: Gregory Alice M. , Caspi Avshalom , Moffitt Terrie E. , Poulton Richie
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVES. Our goal was to examine the association between parent-rated sleep problems during childhood and neuropsychological functioning during adolescence.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS. Longitudinal prospective data on an entire birth cohort from Dunedin, New Zealand, were obtained. One thousand thirty-seven children were enrolled in the study (52% male). Parents reported on sleep problems when the study members were 5, 7, and 9 years of age. Neuropsychological functioning was assessed by using 7 tests when the participants were 13 years of age.

RESULTS. After adjusting for gender and socioeconomic status, persistent sleep problems during childhood predicted scores on 2 neuropsychological tests: the copy score of the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test and 2 measures of performance on the Halstead Trail Making Test. These results were substantively replicated when sleep was assessed at the 5- and 9-year (but not 7-year) assessments separately.

CONCLUSIONS. Sleep problems during childhood may be associated with certain aspects of neuropsychological functioning during adolescence. This adds to the growing body of literature suggesting that childhood sleep problems may be a risk indicator of later difficulties.
Iron Homeostasis in the Neonate
Authors: Collard Keith J.
Published: March 2009

The regulation of the availability of micronutrients is particularly critical during periods of rapid growth and differentiation such as the fetal and neonatal stages. Both iron deficiency and excess during the early weeks of life can have severe effects on neurodevelopment that may persist into adulthood and may not be corrected by restoration of normal iron levels. This article provides a succinct overview of our current understanding of the extent to which newborns, particularly premature newborns, are able (or not able) to regulate their iron status according to physiologic need. Postnatal development of factors important to iron homeostasis such as intestinal transport, extracellular transport, cellular uptake and storage, intracellular regulation, and systemic control are examined. Also reviewed are how factors peculiar to the sick and premature neonate can further adversely influence iron homeostasis and exacerbate iron-induced oxidative stress, predispose the infant to bacterial infections, and, thus, compromise his or her clinical situation further. The article concludes with a discussion of the areas of relative ignorance that require urgent investigation to rectify our lack of understanding of iron homeostasis in what is a critical stage of development.
Promotion and Provision of Drinking Water in Schools for Overweight Prevention: Randomized, Controlled Cluster Trial
Authors: Muckelbauer Rebecca , Libuda Lars , Clausen Kerstin , Toschke André Michael , Reinehr Thomas , Kersting Mathilde
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE. The study tested whether a combined environmental and educational intervention solely promoting water consumption was effective in preventing overweight among children in elementary school.

METHODS. The participants in this randomized, controlled cluster trial were second- and third-graders from 32 elementary schools in socially deprived areas of 2 German cities. Water fountains were installed and teachers presented 4 prepared classroom lessons in the intervention group schools (N = 17) to promote water consumption. Control group schools (N = 15) did not receive any intervention. The prevalence of overweight (defined according to the International Obesity Task Force criteria), BMI SD scores, and beverage consumption (in glasses per day; 1 glass was defined as 200 mL) self-reported in 24-hour recall questionnaires, were determined before (baseline) and after the intervention. In addition, the water flow of the fountains was measured during the intervention period of 1 school year (August 2006 to June 2007).

RESULTS. Data on 2950 children (intervention group: N = 1641; control group: N = 1309; age, mean ± SD: 8.3 ± 0.7 years) were analyzed. After the intervention, the risk of overweight was reduced by 31% in the intervention group, compared with the control group, with adjustment for baseline prevalence of overweight and clustering according to school. Changes in BMI SD scores did not differ between the intervention group and the control group. Water consumption after the intervention was 1.1 glasses per day greater in the intervention group. No intervention effect on juice and soft drink consumption was found. Daily water flow of the fountains indicated lasting use during the entire intervention period, but to varying extent.

CONCLUSION. Our environmental and educational, school-based intervention proved to be effective in the prevention of overweight among children in elementary school, even in a population from socially deprived areas.
Increasing Prevalence of Neonatal Withdrawal Syndrome: Population Study of Maternal Factors and Child Protection Involvement
Authors: O'Donnell Melissa , Nassar Natasha , Leonard Helen , Hagan Ronnie , Mathews Richard , Patterson Yvonne , Stanley Fiona
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVES. Illicit drug use during pregnancy is an important public health issue, with adverse effects on the newborn and implications for subsequent parenting. The aim of this study was to measure the birth prevalence of neonatal withdrawal syndrome over time, associated maternal characteristics and child protection involvement.

METHODS. This is a retrospective cohort study that used linked health and child protection databases for all live births in Western Australia from 1980 to 2005. Maternal characteristics and mental health–and assault-related medical history were assessed by using logistic regression models.

RESULTS. The birth prevalence of neonatal withdrawal syndrome increased from 0.97 to a high of 42.2 per 10 000 live births, plateauing after 2002. Mothers with a previous mental health admission, low skill level, Aboriginal status or who smoked during pregnancy were significantly more likely to have an infant with neonatal withdrawal syndrome. These infants were at greater risk for having a substantiated child maltreatment allegation and entering foster care. Increased risk for maltreatment was associated with mothers who were aged <30 years, were from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, Aboriginal status, and had a mental health–or assault-related admission.

CONCLUSIONS. There has been a marked increase in neonatal withdrawal syndrome in the past 25 years. Specific maternal characteristics identified should facilitate planning for early identification and intervention for these women. Findings demonstrate an important pathway into child maltreatment and highlight the need for well-supported programs for women who use illicit drugs during pregnancy as well as the need for sustained long-term support after birth.
Consumption and savings of Hungarian households. The importance of credit market
Authors: Bethlendi A.
Published: March 2009

Looking at almost forty years’ data the strong preference of consumption and housing investment to financial savings is an observable characteristic of Hungarian households’ long-term behaviour. This observation seems to be valid despite the substantial changes in the institutional system. Credit supply has played an important role in this. Households increase their consumption and housing expenditures by taking advantage of lending opportunities. The increased credit supply is coupled with a low financial savings rate. This in not unique in the European countries, however, it may lead to a riskier macroeconomic path for Hungary.
Entrepreneurship, rent-seeking spillovers and decreasing returns: A microeconomic approach
Authors: Infante D. , Smirnova J.
Published: March 2009

The lack of a strong local entrepreneurial activity and the presence of a flourishing rent-seeking sector are two of the major issues raised when debating on developing and transition countries. We claim that the allocation of entrepreneurs between productive and rent-seeking sectors is mainly determined by the reward structure that prevails in both sectors. The introduction of a rent-seeking spillover factor permits to demonstrate that the entrepreneurs involved in production activities may find it convenient to switch to unproductive ones, when the production method operates under decreasing returns.
First-principles calculation of structural and energetic properties for A2Ti2O7 (A = Lu, Er, Y, Gd, Sm, Nd, La)
Authors: Zhang Z.L. , Xiao H.Y. , Zu X.T. , Gao Fei , Weber W.J.
Published: March 2009

A first-principles method was used to investigate the structural and energetic properties for A2Ti2O7 (A = Lu, Er, Y, Gd, Sm, Nd, La), including the formation energies of the cation antisite-pair, the anion Frenkel pair that defines anion-disorder, and the coupled cation antisite-pair/anion-Frenkel. It is proposed that the 〈A–O48f〉 interaction may have more significant influence on the radiation resistance behavior of titanate pyrochlores, although the 〈Ti–O48f〉 interactions are relatively stronger than the 〈A–O48f〉 interactions. It was found that the defect formation energies are not simple functions of the A-site cation radii. The formation energy of the cation antisite-pair increases continuously as the A-site cation varies from Lu to Gd, and then decreases continuously with the variation of the A-site cation from Gd to La, in excellent agreement with the radiation-resistance trend of the titanate pyrochlores. The band gaps in these pyrochlores were also measured, and the band gap widths changed continuously with cation radius.
Stress behavior of electroplated Sn films during thermal cycling
Authors: Shin Jae Wook , Chason Eric
Published: March 2009

The mechanical behavior of electroplated Sn thin films was investigated using thermal-expansion induced strain. For stress above a threshold value, the stress relaxation observed during the thermal cycles is well-described by a power law creep mechanism with exponents similar to those of the bulk material. However, the stress relaxation showed significant thickness dependence so that the relaxation in thicker films is faster than thinner films. The surface oxide was also shown to have a considerable effect on retarding the relaxation by inhibiting diffusion to the surface. The relevance of the stress relaxation to whisker formation in Sn-based coatings is discussed.
Mortality, Predation, and Tag Visibility of Fish Marked with Visible Implant Elastomer Tags
Authors: Reeves Kerry S. , Buckmeier David L.
Published: March 2009

We evaluated tag-induced mortality (7 d), predation, and tag visibility (365 d) for age-0 largemouth bass (LMB) Micropterus salmoides (27–112 mm total length [TL]), age-0 channel catfish (CCF) Ictalurus punctatus (42–101 mm TL), and adult blacktail shiners (BTS) Cyprinella venusta (34–98 mm TL) tagged with three visible implant elastomer (VIE) tags. Tagging mortality after 7 d was 14.7% for age-0 LMB and 29.5% for BTS, whereas there was almost no mortality for CCF. Mortality for tagged age-0 LMB and BTS was size dependent; the smallest size-groups exhibited the greatest mortality rates. Visible implant elastomer tags did not significantly increase predation of recently tagged fish by adult LMB, flathead catfish Pylodictis olivaris, or white bass Morone chrysops. Tag visibility (which reflects tag shedding and loss of visibility due to tissue thickening over the tag) varied greatly by species and tag location. In LMB, tag visibility decreased to 5% or less within 90 d for VIE tags in the dorsal head area and along the base of the anal fin, whereas visibility decreased gradually to 63% after 365 d for tags in the operculum. In CCF, tag visibility decreased to 5% or less within 90 d for tags in the dorsal head area and along the jaw, whereas visibility decreased to 46% after 365 d for tags along the base of the anal fin. Tags in BTS had the highest visibility: 100% visibility was recorded at all three tagging locations after 30 d, then visibility gradually decreased to 56% along the base of the anal fin, 72% in the dorsal portion of the caudal peduncle, and 78% in the ventral portion of the caudal peduncle after 365 d. Visible implant elastomer tags can be used without increasing risk of predation for tagged fish; however, VIE tag utility may be limited due to increased mortality for small age-0 fish and variable tag visibility among anatomical locations.
Retention of Passive Integrated Transponder Tags in Flathead Catfish
Authors: Daugherty Daniel J. , Buckmeier David L.
Published: March 2009

We evaluated short- and long-term retention of passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags at two anatomical tagging locations in flathead catfish Pylodictis olivaris (n = 72 fish; total length range = 421–854 mm). Tags were injected into the dorsal musculature immediately posterior to the dorsal fin and into the opercular musculature immediately posterior to the left eye. Short-term tag retention evaluated at 1, 3, and 7 d posttagging was 100% at both tagging locations after accounting for one tag failure (at the dorsal musculature site) that occurred during the initial tagging procedure. Long-term (300-d) tag retention was 100% for the dorsal musculature site and 98.5% for the opercular site. Mortality of tagged fish was low (8%); the mortalities that did occur were probably not related to tagging. Our results indicate a high rate of PIT tag retention in flathead catfish at both anatomical locations. Additionally, utilization of the opercular musculature as a PIT tagging location for this species may reduce the potential for accidental tag consumption by anglers.
Hydrogeochemical and Biological Processes Affecting the Long‐term Performance of an Iron‐Based Permeable Reactive Barrier
Authors: Zolla Valerio , Freyria Francesca Stefania , Sethi Rajandrea , Di Molfetta Antonio
Published: March 2009

Despite the wide diffusion of zero‐valent iron (Fe0) permeable reactive barriers (PRBs), there is still a great uncertainty about their longevity and long‐term performance. The aim of this study is to investigate the biological and the hydrogeochemical processes that take place at a Fe0 installation located in Avigliana, Italy, and to derive some general considerations about long‐term performance of PRBs. The examined PRB was installed in November 2004 to remediate a chlorinated solvents plume (mainly trichloroethene and 1,2‐dichloroethene). The investigation was performed during the third year of operation and included: (1) groundwater sampling and analysis for chlorinated solvents, dissolved CH4, dissolved H2 and major inorganic constituents; (2) Fe0 core sampling and analysis by SEM‐EDS, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy for the organic fraction; (3) in situ permeability tests and flow field monitoring by water level measurements. The study revealed that iron passivation is negligible, as the PRB is still able to effectively treat the contaminants and to reduce their concentrations below target values. Precipitation of several inorganic compounds inside the PRB was evidenced by SEM‐EDS and XRD analysis conducted on iron samples. Groundwater sampling evidenced heavy sulfate depletion and the highest reported CH4 concentration (>5000 μg/L) at zero‐valent iron PRB sites. These are due to the intense microbial activity of sulfate‐reducers and methanogens, whose proliferation was most likely stimulated by the use of a biopolymer (i.e. guar gum) as shoring fluid during the excavation of the barrier. Slug tests within the barrier evidenced an apparent hydraulic conductivity two orders of magnitude lower than the predicted value. This occurrence can be ascribed to biofouling and/or accumulation of CH4(g) inside the iron filings.This experience suggests that when biopolymer shoring is planned to be used, long‐term column tests should be performed beforehand with initial bacterial inoculation and organic substrate dosing, in order to predict the effects of bacterial overgrowth and gas generation. During construction particular care should be taken in order to minimize the amount of used biopolymer so that complete breakdown can be achieved.
Runoff Water Quality from Broiler Litter‐Amended Tall Fescue in Response to Natural Precipitation in the Ozark Highlands
Authors: Menjoulet B. C. , Brye K. R. , Pirani A. L. , Haggard B. E. , Gbur E. E.
Published: March 2009

The Arkansas poultry industry produced more than 1.2 billion broiler chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) and generated approximately 1.3 million Mg of broiler litter in 2002. High transportation costs of relocating broiler litter have led to annual land applications near poultry houses, increasing concern for potential surface water contamination from runoff. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of broiler litter application rate on runoff water quality in response to natural precipitation. Six plots (1.5 by 6.0 m), located on a Captina silt loam (finesilty, siliceous, active, mesic Typic Fragiudult), were amended with fresh broiler litter at 0, 5.6, and 11.2 Mg ha−1 (control, low, and high litter treatments, respectively) once annually for 4 yr (May 2003 through April 2007). Runoff collected after each runoff‐producing event was analyzed for soluble nutrients and metals. Cumulative runoff did not differ among litter treatments over the 4‐yr study. At times, flow‐weighted mean (FWM) concentrations of As from all litter treatments exceeded the maximum contaminant level for drinking water (0.01 mg As L−1). Four‐year FWM Fe concentrations and runoff losses were greater (P < 0.05) from the high than from the low litter treatment and unamended control, and the 4‐yr FWM P concentration from the low litter treatment (3.0 mg L−1) was greater than that from the unamended control (1.8 mg L−1). Since precipitation is temporally variable, evaluating runoff water quality in response to natural precipitation over several years is key to ascertaining the long‐term impacts of surface‐applied soil amendments like broiler litter.
Soil Salinity and Exchangeable Cations in a Wastewater Irrigated Area, India
Authors: Biggs Trent W. , Jiang BinBin
Published: March 2009

The salinity and cation composition of water and soil were documented in a large (98 km2) wastewater‐irrigated area (WIA) downstream of Hyderabad, India. The wastewater, which flows in a river that passes through the city, had a high to very high salinity hazard (EC = 1.1–3.0 dS m−1) that increased with distance from the city. The EC of soil irrigated by wastewater sampled within 8 km of the city was 6.2 to 8.4 times the EC of soil irrigated by uncontaminated groundwater. Between 57 to 100% of soil samples in the upper 10 cm within 8 km of the city exceeded the salinity tolerance of rice (Oryza sativaL.). Soil salinity fell rapidly after 8 km downstream and changed most in the upper 0 to 5 cm of the soil, indicating retention of cations in the upper soil horizon. The effect of wastewater irrigation on soil exchangeable cations was most evident for Na+(Exch‐Na) near the city (<8 km downstream), where Exch‐Na averaged 20 to 22 times the Exch‐Na in soils irrigated by groundwater outside the WIA. Exchangeable Mg+and K+correlated with clay percentage, though both still had higher concentrations near the city controlling for clay content. Near the city, where salinity and Exch‐Na concentrations were highest, farmers had replaced rice with para grass [Brachiaria mutica(Forsk.)], which has higher salinity tolerance and expanding demand as a fodder crop. Salinity may constrain rice production in wastewater‐irrigated areas of India and elsewhere.
Induction of Lead‐Binding Phytochelatins in Vetiver Grass [Vetiveria zizanioides (L.)]
Authors: Andra Syam S. , Datta Rupali , Sarkar Dibyendu , Makris Konstantinos C. , Mullens Conor P. , Sahi Shivendra V. , Bach Stephan B. H.
Published: March 2009

Elevated lead (Pb) concentrations in residential houseyards around house walls painted with Pb‐based pigments pose serious human health risks, especially to children. Vetiver grass (Vetiveria zizanioides L.) has shown promise for use in in situ Pb phytoremediation efforts. However, little is known about the biochemical mechanisms responsible for the observed high Pb tolerance by vetiver. We hypothesized that vetiver exposure to Pb induced the synthesis of phytochelatins (PCn) and the formation of Pb–PCn complexes, alleviating the phytotoxic effects of free Pb ions. Our main objective was to identify PCn and Pb–PCn complexes in root and shoot compartments of vetiver grass using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ES‐MS). After 7 d of exposure to Pb, vetiver accumulated up to 3000 mg Pb kg−1 in shoot tissues, but much higher Pb concentrations were measured in root (∼20,000 mg kg−1), without phytotoxic symptoms. Scanning electron micrographs showed Pb deposition in the vascular tissues of root and shoot, suggesting Pb translocation to shoot. Collision‐induced dissociation analyses in MS/ MS mode during HPLC‐ES‐MS analysis allowed for the confirmation of four unique PCn (n = 1–4) based on their respective amino acid sequence. The high tolerance of vetiver grass to Pb was attributed to the formation of PCn and Pb–PCn complexes within the plant tissues, using ES‐MS and Pb mass isotopic patterns. These data illustrate the mechanism of high Pb tolerance by vetiver grass, suggesting its potential usefulness for the remediation of Pb‐contaminated residential sites.
Chlorpyrifos and Atrazine Removal from Runoff by Vegetated Filter Strips: Experiments and Predictive Modeling
Authors: Poletika N. N. , Coody P. N. , Fox G. A. , Sabbagh G. J. , Dolder S. C. , White J.
Published: March 2009

Runoff volume and flow concentration are hydrological factors that limit effectiveness of vegetated filter strips (VFS) in removing pesticides from surface runoff. Empirical equations that predict VFS pesticide effectiveness based solely on physical characteristics are insufficient on the event scale because they do not completely account for hydrological processes. This research investigated the effect of drainage area ratio (i.e., the ratio of field area to VFS area) and flow concentration (i.e., uniform versus concentrated flow) on pesticide removal efficiency of a VFS and used these data to provide further field verification of a recently proposed numerical/empirical modeling procedure for predicting removal efficiency under variable flow conditions. Runoff volumes were used to simulate drainage area ratios of 15:1 and 30:1. Flow concentration was investigated based on size of the VFS by applying artificial runoff to 10% of the plot width (i.e., concentrated flow) or the full plot width (i.e., uniform flow). Artificial runoff was metered into 4.6‐m long VFS plots for 90 min after a simulated rainfall of 63 mm applied over 2 h. The artificial runoff contained sediment and was dosed with chlorpyrifos and atrazine. Pesticide removal efficiency of VFS for uniform flow conditions (59% infiltration; 88% sediment removal) was 85% for chlorpyrifos and 62% for atrazine. Flow concentration reduced removal efficiencies regardless of drainage area ratio (i.e., 16% infiltration, 31% sediment removal, 21% chlorpyrifos removal, and 12% atrazine removal). Without calibration, the predictive modeling based on the integrated VFSMOD and empirical hydrologic‐based pesticide trapping efficiency equation predicted atrazine and chlorpyrifos removal efficiency under uniform and concentrated flow conditions. Consideration for hydrological processes, as opposed to statistical relationships based on buffer physical characteristics, is required to adequately predict VFS pesticide trapping efficiency.
Effects of Socio-Economic and Input-Related Factors on Polluting Plants' Location Decisions
Authors: Wolverton Ann
Published: March 2009

Many environmental justice studies argue that firms choose to locate waste sites or polluting plants disproportionately in minority or poor communities. However, it is not uncommon for these studies to match site or plant location to contemporaneous socioeconomic characteristics instead of to characteristics at the time of siting. While this may provide important information on disproportionate impacts currently faced by these communities, it does not describe the relationship at the time of siting. Also, variables that are important to a plant's location decision  i.e., production and transportation costs  are often not included. Without controlling for such variables, it is difficult to evaluate the relative importance of socioeconomic characteristics in a firm's initial location decision. This paper examines the role of community socioeconomic characteristics at the time of siting in the location decisions of manufacturing plants while controlling for other location-relevant factors such as input costs.When plant location is matched to current socioeconomic characteristics, results are consistent with what the environmental justice literature predicts: race is significant and positively related to plant location, while income is significant and negatively related to plant location. When plant location is matched to socioeconomic characteristics at the time of siting, empirical results suggest that race is no longer significant, though income is still significant and negatively related to plant location. Poverty rates are sometimes significant but act as a deterrent to plant location. Variables traditionally considered in the firm location literature  such as land and labor costs, the quality of labor, and distance to rail  are significant. The presence of pre-existing TRI plants in a neighborhood and average plant size are also significant.