bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Meta-analysis of Innovation and Organizational Size
Authors: Camisón-Zornoza César , Lapiedra-Alcamí Rafael , Segarra-Ciprés Mercedes , Boronat-Navarro Montserrat
Published: April 2004

Findings regarding the direction and intensity of the relation between size and innovation in the literature are contradictory. In the journal Organization Studies in 1992, Damanpour proposed a meta-analytical study in an attempt to clarify the diversity of existing conclusions. The present article is a replica and an extension of that study using the same methodology. Our aim is to (1) bring the pool of accumulated knowledge up to date, examining the time span 1970–2001, and (2) review in greater depth the effects of alternative ways of measuring organizational size. The sample used was made up of 87 correlations drawn from 53 empirical studies published in the most important journals on business administration. The analysis enabled us to confirm the existence of a significant and positive correlation between size and innovation. It also provided evidence showing that the contradictory results obtained in previous studies are due to divergences in the methods used to operationalize one, or more, of the variables to be analysed. The main contribution made by our work stems from the fact that the empirical analysis performs a more thorough breakdown of the definitions of the size variable used in the literature. This may well be a first step toward justifying the differences in the results of the primary studies that analyse the relation under examination.
Classicism, Post-Classicism and Ranjabati Sircar’s Work:
Authors: y Royo Alessandra Lopez
Published: April 2004

This essay discusses contemporary dance in India, foregrounding the link between dance and politics. The author proposes that contemporary dance in today’s India can be seen as a continuum, marked by tension and rupture. It embraces, on the one hand, ‘classicism’ – strictly speaking ‘neo-classicism’ – and, on the other, an ideological move away from this ‘classicism’, which constitutes itself into an heterogeneous movement motivated by a search for new dance languages. These new languages, growing out of ‘traditional’ roots (variously defined), claim to be sustained by the ‘classicism’ of Indian dance. This movement can be referred to, for convenience, as ‘post-classicism’. This ‘post-classicism’ is otherwise known as ‘Contemporary’ dance, with a capital ‘c’, in accordance with a western model. Dance in today’s India, whether ‘classical’ or ‘post-classical’, is wholly entangled with the issue of an Indian religious and secular identity, increasingly dominated by a Hinduizing discourse, and this informs the artistic choices of dance artists. The essay discusses the work of Ranjabati Sircar, here seen as ‘post-classical’, against this scenario, and begins to reflect on the impact that Ranjabati Sircar’s choreography and her cosmopolitanism has had on dance in contexts other than India, such as the British South Asian diaspora.
Failing Gender Justice in Anti-Dowry Law
Authors: Palkar Vineeta
Published: April 2004

This article reports on important research in Pune concerning the use of several provisions under Indian criminal law that were designed to protect women against dowry-related atrocities and various forms of domestic violence. It shows that the intentions of the legislators are being undermined by inefficient strategies for implementing these statutory provisions. The result has been a widespread perception that India’s anti-dowry law and the laws seeking to curb domestic violence have remained totally ineffective and do not protect women adequately against any form of cruelty, domestic violence or even murder in the name of dowry. The article outlines the relevant legislation, examines in detail judicial reactions to a large number of complaints under s. 498-A of the Indian Penal Code of 1860, and concludes by making a number of recommendations in order to improve the protection of women with regard to domestic violence.
Skills and Knowledge for Contemporary Probation Practice
Authors: Bracken Denis
Published: April 2004

This article discusses research conducted in Canada and the UK, which considered probation officers’ views about the skills and background knowledge they felt necessary to undertake probation practice. Despite changing and very different political and structural contexts, the research finds clear agreement between the two samples on core skills rated as being most important, particularly interviewing and interpersonal communication skills.
Is Home Detention in New Zealand Disadvantaging Women and Children?
Authors: King Denise , Gibbs Anita
Published: April 2004

This article reviews the use of home detention with electronic monitoring in New Zealand, drawing on research undertaken in 2001. The discussion considers the impact of home detention on women who are subject to this disposal, as well as the impact on the women and children who support those on home detention. The research found that most women were positive about this option but increased tensions in the home and deprivation of liberty for some families are disadvantages of the scheme.
Significant Change is Likely in our Prisons. The Question is, Change in What Direction?
Authors: Houchin Roger
Published: April 2004

The June 2002 edition of Probation Journal was a special issue on ‘Prisons, Prisoners and Resettlement’. It contained a number of articles addressing the theme of prison reform and obstacles to change in the prison system. This article develops some of that discussion and argues that radical change in the prison system may be closer than is generally thought.
Diversity in Community Justice: Some Personal Reflections
Authors: Ramsbotham David
Published: April 2004

Community justice is increasingly under the spotlight, both in its own right and as part of the solution to overcrowded prisons. The re-offending rate is a measurement of success or failure that is binding on both the prison and probation services. To gain public confidence that community penalties are a satisfactory alternative to imprisonment they must be seen to be free of discrimination and to acknowledge diversity. The author considers how this can be achieved in the prison system, and highlights lessons for the probation service.
Which Way Probation? A Correctionalor Community Justice Service?
Authors: Harding John
Published: April 2004

Martin Narey’s appointment as the Commissioner for Correctional Services is likely to have a profound effect on the development of the probation service over the next five years. His responsibilities in terms of oversight include: prisons, probation, the Parole Board and the National Youth Justice Board. The Criminal Justice Bill 2003 creates a range of new penalties including ‘Custody Plus’, ‘Custody Minus’ and intermittent custody. The overall effect will be more people imprisoned and a greater seamlessness between prison and probation. Given this process, the author considers that a drive towards an integrated correctional service in a third Labour administration appears likely. He argues that probation should remain separate from the prison service and regain its former identity with its key stakeholders, the local courts and local communities.
On Similarity, Derivation and the Cognition of Musical Structure
Authors: Ockelford Adam
Published: April 2004

Following a review of the model of similarity perception, cue abstraction and categorization, developed and empirically tested by Deliège and others over the last decade or so, it is proposed that the notion of perceived derivation may be a key additional element in the cognition of musical structure. Evidence is sought in the re-analysis of recent empirical work and through the identification of structures that appear to challenge the sufficiency of Deliège’s model. The issue is contextualized through a discussion of the concepts of similarity, sameness and salience, utilizing contemporary thinking in cognitive psychology, philosophy and music theory–strands of thought which are drawn together through Ockelford’s ‘zygonic’ theory of music-structural understanding. This leads to the formulation of a new, composite account of how musical structure is processed, in which similarity, salience, derivation,categorization and schematization are shown to function in an integrated way.
Route-Learning and the Mozart Effect
Authors: Jackson Catherine S. , Tlauka Michael
Published: April 2004

The ‘Mozart effect’ refers to an increase in spatial reasoning performance following exposure to music composed by Mozart. Empirical tests of the effect have resulted in an inconsistent pattern of findings with some studies producing the effect and others failing to do so. The majority of the investigations have relied on paper-and-pencil tests. It is argued that in order for the effect to be of value in education, music needs to be shown to benefit performance in both laboratory and naturalistic settings. This study was a first attempt to examine performance employing a more naturalistic task. Participants repeatedly negotiated a series of computer-simulated rooms immediately after they listened to a sonata by Mozart or a piece by Philip Glass. Evidence of significant learning was observed in both conditions, but there was no difference between listening conditions. It is concluded that critical variables affecting the relationship between music and spatial reasoning ability are yet to be discovered.
Cultural Memes, Innate Proclivities and Musical Behaviour: A Case Study of the Western Traditions
Authors: Walker Robert
Published: April 2004

Western music, it is argued, is a cultural invention, and resulting behaviours are learned from the culturally disseminated memesemanating from Homer, through the historical development of western culture through the High Renaissance, and on to Hollywood and our modern entertainment media. These memes concern semantic systems for both the intentions of musicians and the expected behaviour of listeners. In which case, it is argued, studies of western musical behaviour are, in effect, studies of the extent of the cultural assimilation which has occurred in the individual or group. Experimental evidence is cited suggesting that there may be innate, perhaps universal, proclivities for cross-modal integration which provided the platform for the western musical semiotic to evolve. Cognitive psychology has tended to ignore the cultural origins of musical behaviour in its focus on structures, and recent sociological concerns in music and music psychology are concerned more with the social mechanics of identity and meaning construction than with the cultural source of such constructions. This article suggests that there would be nothing to construct without cultural memes transmitted over time and place.
Commodities, Workers, and Institutions: Analytical and Empirical Problems in Regulation’s Consumption Theory
Authors: Mavroudeas Stavros
Published: April 2004

Regulation’s theory of consumption has been a significant but rather “hidden” item behind the Fordist/post-Fordist labor process connotations. Its main argument is that working-class consumption was capitalistically commodified only after World War II. Thus, there was no mass consumption to cover the capitalist mass production established in the 1920s. The basis of the post–World War II boom was the creation of a social consumption norm (via wages indexation to productivity) that ensured unfettered capitalist accumulation. This schema is both analytically and empirically invalid.
An Elasto-Plastic Stress Analysis in a Polymer Matrix Composite Beam of Arbitrary Orientation Subjected to Transverse Linearly Distributed Load
Authors: Esendemir Ümran
Published: April 2004

An elasto-plastic stress analysis is carried out in a low density polyethylene thermoplastic cantilever beam of arbitrary orientation subjected to transverse linearly distributed load reinforced by Cr-Ni steel fibers analytically. In the elasto-plastic solution, the material is assumed to be perfectly plastic. The expansion of the plastic region and the residual stress component of σ x are determined for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° orientation angles. The yielding begins at the upper and lower surfaces of the beam at the same distances from the free end. The intensity of residual stress component of σ x is maximum at the upper and lower surfaces but residual stress component of τ xy is maximum on the x axis of the beam. Sample problems are given for various angles, x axis of the beam is used to obtain the location of the elasto-plastic boundary and to calculate elastic, elasto-plastic and residual normal and shear stresses.
Compressive Strength of Epoxy with Bimodal Filling of Flyash
Authors: Kulkarni S. M. , Kishore
Published: April 2004

Compressive strength of epoxy with “free-inforcement” flyash without any prior separation is studied. It is observed that the increase in filler volume fraction beyond 10% brings about a reduction in the compressive strength. Increasing adhesion factor, determined relative to unfilled matrix, implied an alleviation in the interfacial adhesion due to dewetting, especially at the surfaces of larger particles and at higher filler concentrations. Such deductions were verified by examining the surface features of compression tested samples in Scanning Electron Microscope.
Thermal Elastic-Plastic Stress Analysis of Symmetric Aluminum Metal-Matrix Composite Laminated Plates and Residual Stresses Under Thermal Loads Varying Linearly
Authors: Bektas Numan Behlul
Published: April 2004

This paper deals with elastic-plastic stress analysis of symmetric cross-ply [0/90]2 and angle-ply [30/30]2, [45/45]2, [60/60]2 aluminum metal-matrix laminated plates under thermal loads varying linearly along the thickness. The temperature is T0 at the upper and lower surfaces, respectively. The solution is performed for satisfying thermal elastic-plastic stress-strain relations and boundary conditions for small plastic deformations. Tsai-Hill Criterion is used as a yield criterion. Residual stresses distributions along the thickness of the plates are obtained. All the residual stress components are in static balance with respect to middle plane of the laminates since they are symmetric in opposite signs. The magnitude of the residual stress components is the highest at the upper and lower surfaces.
Shear Performance of FRP Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Guadagnini Maurizio , Pilakoutas Kypros , Waldron Peter
Published: April 2004

The paper deals with shear resistance of RC beams reinforced with fibre reinforced polymer reinforcement. The experimental programme presented here is part of an extensive research activity focused on comparing the development of shear carrying mechanisms in concrete beams reinforced with either steel or FRP reinforcement. Two sets of beams with equivalent geometrical characteristics were examined. Three beams were reinforced in flexure with conventional longitudinal steel bars and three beams with equivalent glass FRP bars. Shear reinforcement was provided in the form of transverse external links manufactured using glass fibres for the first set of beams and carbon fibres for the second. The experimental programme is described and findings of the project are reported and discussed in the context of the development of design guidelines urgently needed to support the wider use of FRP reinforcement for structural concrete applications.
The Use of FRP Composites in Enhancing the Structural Behavior of Timber Beams
Authors: Gilfillan J. R. , Gilbert S. G. , Patrick G. R. H.
Published: April 2004

This paper describes aspects within an experimental and theoretical programme aimed generally at improving the structural performance of laminated beams fabricated from Irish-grown Sitka spruce. Such timber is characterised by low density and small dimensions, is likely to distort when dried and tends to fail in tension due to the presence of knots. The well-established technique of laminating timber overcomes some of these disadvantages and the improvements are most marked with low quality donor material. It has been found that the addition of modest ratios of FRP composite reinforcement can suppress tension failure in beams. The study of failure modes, particularly in tension-reinforced beams, is the main focus of this paper. It establishes that the ultimate load capacity depends on the behavior of the timber in compression, resulting in much more consistent behavior as well as a considerable increase in flexural stiffness.
Modeling and Optimization of a Plastic Thermoforming Process
Authors: Yang Chyan , Hung Shiu-Wan
Published: April 2004

Thermoforming of plastic sheets has become an important process in industry because of their low cost and good formability. However there are some unsolved problems that confound the overall success of this technique. Nonuniform thickness distribution caused by inappropriate processing condition is one of them. In this study, results of experimentation were used to develop a process model for thermoforming process via a supervised learning back propagation neural network. An ‘‘inverse’’ neural network model was proposed to predict the optimum processing conditions. The network inputs included the thickness distribution at different positions of molded parts. The output of the processing parameters was obtained by neural computing. Good agreement was reached between the computed result by neural network and the experimental data. Optimum processing parameters can thus be obtained by using the neural network scheme we proposed. This provides significant advantages in terms of improved product quality.
The Effects of Weld Geometry and Glass-Fiber Orientation on the Mechanical Performance of Joints – Part I: Weld Design Issues
Authors: Kagan Val A. , Roth Christopher
Published: April 2004

The mechanical performance of injection molded glass-fiber reinforced [thermo]-plastic components is anisotropic and depends on the fiber orientation and distribution. The purpose of this comprehensive analysis is to show the relationship between short-fiber orientation at the prewelded bead and wall areas, and the mechanical performance of welded butt-joints that have various geometry and thickness, namely ‘‘straight’’ and ‘‘T-type’’ welds. Findings on the mechanical performance of these two different types of butt-joints by the design and geometry butt-joints will help designers and technologists with material selection, welding processing, and design optimization. In a subsequent paper (Part II)1, we related these findings to the kinetics of glass-fiber reorientation and micro-structural changes and how they influence part and weld design.
Influence of Filler Addition on the Mechanical Properties of Nylon-6 Polymer
Authors: Unal H. , Mimaroglu A.
Published: April 2004

In general addition compounds are added to polymers to design composite materials with improved properties and to lower the overall production cost. In this investigation, the influence of adding inorganic mineral fillers on the mechanical properties of nylon-6 is investigated. One or combination of more than one filler with different percentage by weight were added to nylon-6. Wollastonite and glass beads with weight percentage varying between 10 and 30wt.% were added to nylon-6. Samples of the composites were prepared by injection molding process. Uniaxial tensile and Izod impact tests were carried out. Tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus of elasticity and impact energy were obtained. The results showed that the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of nylon-6 composite increases with the increase in filler weight ratio while the impact strength and maximum elongation decreases with the increase in filler weight ratio. The maximum improvement is recorded with the addition of 10–15 wt.% filler ratio.
Stress Analysis of Tapered Composite Laminates Using Partial Hybrid Finite Elements
Authors: He K. , Hoa S. V. , Ganesan R.
Published: April 2004

Two special partial hybrid finite elements have been developed for the stress analysis of tapered composite laminates. These are quasi three dimensional elements that can be used for plain strain analysis. Partial hybrid finite elements are efficient in the use of computer space with good accuracy for stress determination. The elements are used to calculate stresses in a tapered laminate. Results compare well with results obtained using another method.
An Elastic-plastic Stress Analysis in a Polymer Matrix Composite Beam of Arbitrary Orientation Supported from Two Ends Acted Upon with a Force at the Mid Point
Authors: Esendem[UNKNOWN]r Ümran
Published: April 2004

Polymer matrix composite beam of arbitrary orientation supported from two ends acted upon with a force at the mid point is studied by an analytical elasto-plastic stress analysis. In the elasto-plastic solution, the material is assumed to be perfectly plastic. The expansion of the plastic region and the residual stress component of σ x are determined for 0, 30, 45, 60 and 90° orientation angles. The yielding begins for 0 and 90° orientation angles at the upper and lower surfaces of the beam at the same distances from the mid point. But, it starts first at the lower surface for 30, 45 and 60° orientation angles. The intensity of the residual stress component of xy is maximum on or around the x axis of the beam but the residual stress component of τ x is maximum at the upper and lower surfaces.The beam can be strengthened by using the residual stress.
An Elasto-Plastic Analysis of Thermoplastic Composite Cantilever Beam Loaded by a Single Force at Its Free End
Authors: Esendemiir Umran , Ondurucu Ayse
Published: April 2004

In the present study, an elastic–plastic stress analysis is carried out on a high-density thermoplastic-based composite cantilever beam loaded by a single force at its free end. An analytical solution is performed for satisfying both the governing differential equation in the plane stress case and boundary conditions for small plastic deformations. The solution is carried out under the assumption of the Bernoulli–Navier hypotheses. The composite material is assumed to be strain-hardening. The Tsai–Hill theory is used as a yield criterion. The residual stress component of x are determined for 0, 30, 45, 60 and 90 orientation angles. It is found that the intensity of the residual stress is maximum at the upper and lower surfaces of the beam. The horizontal displacement component of u is greater than the vertical displacement component of v.
Analytic Reviews: Considerations in the Development of Intensive Care Unit Report Cards
Authors: Gupta Nisha , Kotler Pam L. , Dudley R. Adams
Published: April 2004

Concerns over health care quality have prompted calls for the public release of performance data, or “report cards,” as one strategy for improving quality. Any initiative to create a report card should start with the selection of valid quality indicators. This is complicated by the need to account for variations in case mix among intensive care units (ICUs), the difficulty in defining which patients are receiving critical care, and the fact that pre-ICU and post-ICU care can influence the outcomes of care for ICU patients. The difficulties in measuring quality accurately make some providers reluctant to release performance data to the public, but advocates of public disclosure point to examples of improved quality after publication of report cards. Consumer and purchaser demand for report cards continues to increase, so public reporting of performance data likely will become more common. In light of this trend, it is important for physicians to become involved in the development of report cards to ensure that quality measurement is valid and that the data are used for quality improvement.
Blood Transfusion Policy among European Pediatric Intensive Care Physicians
Authors: Nahum Elhanan , Ben-Ari Josef , Schonfeld Tommy
Published: April 2004

The objective of this study was to define current blood transfusion practices among European pediatric intensive care physicians treating critically ill children. A questionnaire of case scenarios was administered to members of the European Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPNIC). Of the 258 members of the ESPNIC, 134 (51.9%) pediatric intensive care physicians completed the questionnaire. The suggested blood transfusion thresholds for case scenario 1 (post–orthopedic surgery child) ranged from <7.0 g/dl to 11 g/dl. A total of 57.3% suggested 7 g/dl, 33.6% suggested 8 g/dl, and 6.9% suggested 9 g/dl as a hemoglobin threshold for transfusion (mean, 7.54 ± 0.75). For case scenarios 2 to 4, the suggested hemoglobin thresholds were 7 g/dl to 12 g/dl. For case scenario 2 (a child with acute respiratory distress syndrome), 22.4% suggested 8 g/dl, 15.7% suggested 9 g/dl, and 41% suggested 10 g/dl as a hemoglobin threshold for transfusion (mean, 9.40 ± 1.27 g/dl). For case scenario 3 (a post–cardiac surgery infant), 20.1% suggested 7 g/dl, 24.6% suggested 8 g/dl, 21.6% suggested 9 g/dl, and 23.9% suggested 10 g/dl as a hemoglobin threshold for transfusion (mean, 8.72 ± 1.24 g/dl). For case scenario 4 (a child with septic shock), 23.1% suggested 8 g/dl, 16.4% suggested 9 g/dl, and 41% suggested 10 g/dl as a hemoglobin threshold for transfusion (mean, 9.45 ± 1.24 g/dl). The threshold for transfusion was not statistically different ( P> .05) between the physicians according to their subspecialty, years of experience, or country of origin. The suggested volume of transfused blood was 10 to 15 ml/kg in 427 responses (82.6%) and 20 ml/kg in 89 responses (17.2%). Most physicians, 78/128 (60.9%), did not consider the age of the transfused blood an important factor in their decision to transfuse. Of the 106 (79.1%) physicians who detailed their considerations for elevating the thresh- old for transfusion, 82 (77.3%) gave a general nonspecific indication, 47 (44.3%) stated hemodynamic instability and shock, and 40 (37.7%) an ongoing bleeding. The hemoglobin threshold for blood transfusion and transfusion volume varies among European pediatric intensive care physicians, for the same patient.
Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Antezano Eduardo S. , Hong Mauricio
Published: April 2004

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) due to ventricular tachyarrhythmias is a leading cause of death in the United States. This phenomenon is associated with coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, nonischemic cardiomyopathies, congenital heart disease, primary electrical abnormalities, autonomic nervous system abnormalities, and other less common disorders. Evaluation and management of patients at risk for SCD (primary prevention) and of patients who have survived at least 1 episode of SCD (secondary prevention) have evolved in recent years because clinical trials have shown consistent benefit from implantation of cardioverter-defibrillators in appropriately selected patients. An evidence-based approach to primary and secondary prevention of SCD is presented.
Applications of Bispectral Index Monitoring in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Grindstaff Ryan J. , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: April 2004

The bispectral index (BIS) monitor is an electroencephalographic recording device that generates a single numeric value. It has traditionally been used to measure anesthetic depth and avoid awareness in the operating room setting. In this report, the authors present different scenarios in the pediatric intensive care unit that demonstrate the potential applications of the BIS monitor outside of the operating room setting. The scenarios presented include use of the BIS monitor during titration of barbiturate coma, procedural sedation, sedation assessment during mechanical ventilation, and sedation while administering potentially confounding medications. Previous reports regarding the use of the BIS monitor in such scenarios and potential future applications are reviewed.
Ultrasonically Enhanced Vancomycin Activity Against Staphylococcus Epidermidis Biofilms in Vivo
Authors: Carmen J. C. , Roeder B. L. , Nelson J. L. , Beckstead B. L. , Runyan C. M. , Schaalje G. B. , Robison R. A. , Pitt W. G.
Published: April 2004

Infection of implanted medical devices by Gram-positive organisms such as Staphylococcus ssp. is a serious concern in the biomaterial community. In this research the application of low frequency ultrasound to enhance the activity of vancomycin against implanted Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms was examined. Polyethylene disks covered with a biofilm of S. epidermidis were implanted subcutaneously in rabbits on both sides of their spine. The rabbits received systemic vancomycin for the duration of the experiment. Following 24 h of recovery, one disk was insonated for 24 or 48 h while the other was a control. Disks were removed and viable bacteria counted. At 24 h of insonation, there was no difference in viable counts between control and insonated biofilms, while at 48 h of insonation there were statistically fewer viable bacteria in the insonated biofilm. The S. epidermidis biofilms responded favorably to combinations of ultrasound and vancomycin, but longer treatment times are required for this Gram-positive organism than was observed previously for a Gram-negative species.
Norfloxacin-loaded Chitosan Sponges as Wound Dressing Material
Authors: Denkbaş Em&unknown;r B. , Öztürk Eylem , Özdem&unknown;r Nalan , Keçec&unknown; Kaan , Agalar Canan
Published: April 2004

The aim of this study was the preparation and characterization of chitosan sponges including a model antibiotic (i.e., norfloxacin). The chitosan sponges were prepared by a solvent evaporation method. The matrix was also cross-linked during the preparation. The results indicated that the chitosan sponges were in the fibrillar structure. The swelling behavior, norfloxacin loading, in vitro release characteristics, and antibacterial activity were determined. The effects of cross-linker concentration, norfloxacin/chitosan ratio, chitosan molecular weight, and base concentration were investigated. The most effective parameter was found to be the degree of neutralization. It was also observed that the equilibrium swelling ratio decreased with increasing crosslinking density. The norfloxacin release was found to be swelling controlled initially and diffusion controlled at the extended release periods. It was also found that the antibacterial activity was directly proportional to the release rate.
Wear Behaviour of the Pair Ti–6Al–4V–UHMWPE of Acrylic Bone Cements Containing Different Radiopaque Agents
Authors: Manero J. M. , Gil F. J. , Ginebra M. P. , Planell J. A. , Artola A. , Goñ I. , Gurruchaga M.
Published: April 2004

The objective of this study was to improve the wear behaviour of acrylic bone cements by substituting the conventional inorganic radiopaque agents (BaSO4, ZrO2) for different iodinated radiopaque monomers which can co-polymerize with the methyl methacrylate monomer, MMA. To this aim, the wear behaviour of the pair Ti–6Al–4V–UHMWPE (ultra high molecular weight polyethylene) was studied in the absence and in the presence of cement particles (the third body).
Echoes of Latifundism? Electoral Constituencies of Successor Parties in Post-Communist Countries
Authors: Lubecki Jacek
Published: April 2004

This article examines patterns of elector support for successor parties in Hungary, Poland, East Germany, and Russia. After consideration of competing hypotheses purporting to explain variance in successor vote, the author proposes a new hypothesis—that regions dominated by latifundism in pre-communist times, and where masses of agricultural proletarians and impoverished peasants experienced the communist period as an era of unprecedented social advancement, show an above-average level of elector support for successor parties. This hypothesis is tested on a regional level in the four country-cases and found to be valid and a more powerful determinate of regional variance in patterns of successor vote than socio-economic status of regions in the post-communist era.
Postcolonialism: A Valid Paradigm for the Former Sovietized States and Yugoslavia?
Authors: Carey Henry F. , Raciborski Rafal
Published: April 2004

This article argues that the structuralist effects on the large variation in the diverse human rights and democratization records of post-communist states can be best explained through the optic of postcolonialism. This approach would not override recent effects of strategic actors, though the type of postcolonialism in a post-communist state greatly constrains their actions. Among the postcolonial constraints are unsolved colonial-era problems, the type of colonial mentorship and institutions, the process of decolonization and the immediate regime path created in extricating from communism, the ongoing metropolitan-postcolonial elite relationships, and their links to mass politics. Five postcolonial regions emerge that reflect variable colonial and postcolonial experiences. The Soviet colonial experience had the most negative, direct, and ongoing effects on the former Soviet republics. Postcolonial effects on East Central Europe and the Balkans are less than the former USSR because of overlapping colonial heritages with Western empires and the shorter Soviet influence.
Mikhail Gorbachev: The Decay of Socialism and the Renaissance of Eastern Europe (From the Perspective of an Insider)
Authors: Ciobanu Ceslav
Published: April 2004

This article provides an insider’s view of Gorbachev’s policy “perestroika and glasnost” as it related to the former Central and Eastern European socialist countries. The author describes Gorbachev’s relations with the leaders of communist parties of the Warsaw Treaty. A participant in many of Gorbachev’s meetings with his counterparts, the author analyzes the emergence of democracy and market reforms in these countries. He observed two distinct groups of socialist leaders, one relatively progressive and reform oriented and the other consisting of hardliners with traditional views opposed to any political and economic change. The author describes their attitude toward Gorbachev’s reforms. Based on his personal experience with the Soviet leader, the author also identifies some of the characteristics that made Mikhail Gorbachev one of the most distinguished leaders of the twentieth century, based on his personal experience with the Soviet leader. The author’s description highlights lesser-known aspects of Gorbachev’s performance that complete a portrait of this complex person.
Gains in Distance Walking in a 3-Month Follow-Up Poststroke: What Changes?
Authors: Pohl Patricia S. , Perera Subashan , Duncan Pamela W. , Maletsky Rebecca , Whitman Robert , Studenski Stephanie
Published: April 2004

Statement of Problem. Distance walking remains compromised for many adults poststroke. The purpose of this study was to examine if the amelioration of strokerelated neuromuscular impairments, improved cardiovascular fitness, or better balance contributed to gains in distance walking. Method of Study. The authors gathered baseline data of 92 adults at an average of 75 days poststroke and again 3 months later. Participants performed a bicycle ergometry stress test, a 6-min walk, and a Fugl-Meyer assessment for motor control, strength, and balance testing. The gain in walk distance was modeled using multiple regression with the variables of gains in peak VO2 lower limb control, plantar flexion strength, and balance. Separate analyses were done for poor performers, that is, participants who walked less than the median distance (213 m) at baseline and good performers, that is, participants who walked more than 213 m. Results. For poor performers, the gain in balance was the only significant predictor of the gain in distance walking and accounted for 16% of the variance. For good performers, gains in peak VO2 and the lower limb Fugl-Meyer score were significant predictors and accounted for 28% of the variance. Discussion. These results suggest that rehabilitation efforts to improve distance walking should focus on different factors depending on initial distance walked.
Health Service Utilization by Alzheimer’s Disease Patients: A 2-Year Follow-Up of Primary Versus Subspecialty Care
Authors: Aupperle Peter M. , MacPhee Edward R. , Coyne Andrew C. , Blume Jonathan , Sanchez Betty
Published: April 2004

All dementia patients and their caregivers who had received a university-based comprehensive evaluation and a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease during 1997 (N = 80) were identified. Of the original cohort, 48.8% (n = 39) were able to be contacted approximately 2 years after their initial assessment, and the caregivers were the informants for this followup. Two subgroups were defined: 22 patients were being seen only by their primary care physicians (MED), while 17 patients were also being treated by a geriatric psychiatry faculty member (GERO). There were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups (MED versus GERO, respectively) at follow-up in terms of (1) institutionalization (30.0% versus 4.6%, P < .05), (2) CDR (2.3 versus 1.5, P < .005), and (3) prescription of donepezil at follow-up (45.5% versus 76.5%, P = .05). These differences are being assessed in a larger scale prospective study. ( J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2003; 16:15-17)
Smoking and Cognitive Performance in the Community Elderly: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Chen Wei-Ta , Wang Pei-Ning , Wang Shuu-Jiun , Fuh Jong-Ling , Lin Ker-Neng , Liu Hsiu-Chih
Published: April 2004

This prospective study investigated the association between smoking and cognitive performance in a community of nondemented elderly subjects aged 65 or older. All subjects were categorized as current smokers, former smokers, or never smokers. The lifetime cigarette exposure was computed. At baseline, we found the abstainers from smoking had better cognitive performances; however, the differences were not significant after adjusting for age, education, hypertension, diabetes, and vascular events. The lifetime cigarette exposure was not predictive of the cognitive status. At a 3-year follow-up, neither the smoking status nor the lifetime cigarette exposure predicted the declination of cognition. ( J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2003; 16:18-22)
Construct Validity of the 15-Item Geriatric Depression Scale in Older Medical Inpatients
Authors: Incalzi R. Antonelli , Cesari M. , Pedone C. , Carbonin P. U.
Published: April 2004

The construct validity of the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (sfGDS) has been assessed in selected populations. The aim of this study was to assess the appropriateness of applying the sfGDS to unselected older inpatients. The main component analysis of sfGDS was performed in 2032 medical inpatients (mean age = 76.3 ± 8.4). sfGDS did not qualify as a unidimensional test. Three factors explained 47.7% of variance and explored the following dimensions: positive attitude toward life, distressing thoughts/negative judgment about the own condition, and inactivity/reduced selfesteem. The internal homogeneity was poor (Cronbach’s α = .46). A higher fraction of variance was explained in patients independent in all or dependent in ≥ 1 activity of daily living (ADL). In older medical inpatients, sfGDS is not a single construct, which prevents the univocal interpretation of the final score. The higher fraction of explained variance in patients with comparable ADL performance probably reflects the dependency of affective from physical status. ( J Geriatr Psychiatr Neurol 2003; 16:23-28)
Age-Related Impairments in Comprehending Affective Prosody with Comparison to Brain-Damaged Subjects
Authors: Orbelo Diana M. , Testa Julie A. , Ross Elliott D.
Published: April 2004

This study evaluated the ability to produce and comprehend affective prosody across age groups and compared patterns of impaired performance to deficits observed after focal brain damage. Sixty-nine healthy subjects, ages 22 to 83 years, were given the Aprosodia Battery, a test that distinguishes between affective prosodic processing deficits following rightversus left-brain damage through the use of stimuli with progressively reduced verbal articulatory content. Production of affective prosody, measured by variation in fundamental frequency, was unimpaired in older subjects, whereas comprehension of affective prosody was impaired, particularly for tasks with reduced verbal articulatory content. The pattern of performance across affective comprehension tasks in the older subjects resembled the pattern found after right-brain damage. The results demonstrate age-related loss in comprehension of affective prosody that is most likely due to a processing deficit involving the right hemisphere. ( J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2003; 16:44-52)
Erotomania Variants in Dementia
Authors: Brüne Martin , Schröder Stefan G.
Published: April 2004

Erotomania is a delusional syndrome in which an affected individual is convinced that another person loves him or her. Erotomania usually occurs in middle-aged female patients. Only 3 cases have been described in dementia so far. The authors report 2 cases, in Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, in which erotomania emerged in the early stage of the underlying disorder. In both cases, erotomania partially responded to antipsychotic treatment. Erotomania may be understood in evolutionary terms as a pathologic deviation of an evolved psychological mechanism relating to mate selection and may therefore account for the typical sex distribution of the syndrome in favor of women and the onset of the disorder, usually during the late reproductive phase. The association of erotomania with dementing disorders may tentatively be interpreted to suggest that such complex psychological mechanisms and behaviors as involved here in “organic” delusions may have distinct, “hard-wired” representations in the human brain.
Pharmacologic Management of Psychosis in the Elderly: A Critical Review
Authors: Hoeh Nicholas , Gyulai Laszlo , Weintraub Daniel , Streim Joel
Published: April 2004

Objective.Psychotic symptoms are seen in numerous psychiatric illnesses afflicting the elderly. This article reviews the efficacy of the pharmacologic management of psychotic symptoms in primary psychotic disorders, affective disorders, and neurodegenerative disorders. Method.A comprehensive literature review. Results.Evidence to support the use of pharmacologic interventions to manage psychotic symptoms in elderly patients afflicted with primary psychotic disorders and affective disorders is limited by the absence of randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). The use of low-dose clozapine is supported by RCTs in Parkinson’s disease. The efficacy of risperidone and olanzapine for the treatment of psychotic symptoms has been demonstrated by large RCTs in Alzheimer’s disease. Conclusion.There is evidence of the efficacy of antipsychotic medications to manage psychotic symptoms in elderly patients. However, the absence of published evidence from RCTs in primary psychotic and affective disorders, and the limited evidence in the neurodegenerative illnesses, is notable.
Use of a VA Pharmacy Database to Screen for Areas at High Risk for Disease: Parkinson’s Disease and Exposure to Pesticides
Authors: Yesavage J. A. , Sheikh J. , Noda A. , Murphy G. , O’Hara R. , Hierholzer R. , Battista M. , Ashford J. W. , Kraemer H. C. , Tinklenberg J.
Published: April 2004

The purpose of this study was to assess whether pharmacy database information from US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers could be used to screen for areas of higher Parkinson’s disease prevalence in patients exposed to pesticides. The authors used pharmacy data sets and compared the use of antiparkinsonian medications at 2 VA medical centers in California: one in Palo Alto, near the ocean, and one in Fresno, downwind from extensively farmed parts of the Central Valley. They found that patients at Fresno had higher odds ratios (1.5-1.8) for the use of Parkinson’s disease medications than patients at Palo Alto. These data are consistent with the observations of prior epidemiologic studies and suggest that VA pharmacy databases can prioritize locations for further epidemiologic research. However, a thorough exploration of alternative explanations is needed to reach definitive conclusions regarding the findings suggested by this method.
Clinical Characteristics and Length of Hospital Stay among Older Adults with Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder, Depression, and Dementia
Authors: Sajatovic Martha , Friedman Susan Hatters , Sabharwal Josephine , Bingham C. Raymond
Published: April 2004

Although many older adults with serious psychiatric illnesses share common concerns, such as medical comorbidity, personal loss, greater propensity for adverse medication effects, and greater dependence on others for basic needs such as transportation, individualized treatment needs must be differentiated by underlying psychiatric disorders. This retrospective study evaluated clinical characteristics and resource use among 137 older adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, depression, and dementia who were discharged from an urban, academic medical center’s inpatient geropsychiatric unit. The authors found women to be significantly overrepresented among individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder compared to those with bipolar disorder, depression, and dementia ( P= .034). Among those with bipolar disorder, anticonvulsant medications were predominantly used as mood stabilizers, with only the rare use of lithium. Individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were the youngest group of patients; individuals with dementia were the oldest group ( P< .001). This shows significant differences in clinical characteristics among hospitalized older adults with serious mental illnesses. Additional studies are needed on outcomes of serious chronic psychiatric illnesses in later life to optimize care environments for older adult psychiatric patients.
Decisional Capacity of Depressed Elderly to Consent to Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Lapid Maria I. , Rummans Teresa A. , Pankratz V. Shane , Appelbaum Paul S.
Published: April 2004

The purpose of this article is to determine the abilities of severely depressed elderly to consent to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and to investigate the impact of educational intervention on their capacity. Forty severely depressed adults referred for ECT, with Mini-Mental State Examination scores greater than 20, were recruited. Using the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment (MacCAT-T), decisional capacities were assessed at baseline and reassessed after education. Between the 2 assessments, all subjects received standard education, and half of the group was subsequently randomized to receive further education. At baseline, the geriatric group scored lower on understanding, reasoning, and choice and higher on appreciation. After education, all MacCAT-T scores increased for both age groups. Depressed elderly in the sample, as a group, had adequate decisional capacities to consent to ECT. They showed greater improvement in decisional capacity with education. The findings highlight the importance of providing education to the elderly to optimize their ability to give informed consent.
Caregiver-Administered Neuropsychiatric Inventory (CGA-NPI)
Authors: Kang Sue J. , Choi Seong Hye , Lee Byung Hwa , Jeong Yong , Hahm Dong Seok , Han Il Woo , Cummings Jeffrey L. , Na Duk L.
Published: April 2004

The Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) is used to assess neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia patients. To reduce clinicians’ time taken to administer the NPI, the authors studied a caregiver-administered NPI (CGA-NPI), in which caregivers completed the written form of the NPI worksheet. After a brief presupervision session, the caregivers of 61 dementia patients completed the CGA-NPI by reading through the worksheet. This was followed by a postsupervision session to check if the caregivers had completed the form appropriately. The correlation between the prevalence rates of each neuropsychiatric symptom obtained by the CGA-NPI and those obtained by the NPI was fair to good (. = 0.57-0.90) in all domains. All frequency, severity, and caregivers’ distress scores of the CGA-NPI correlated significantly with those of the NPI ( r> 0.6, P< .001). Total CGA-NPI scores also correlated highly with total NPI scores ( r= 0.86, P< .001). These results suggest that the CGA-NPI can substitute for the NPI, saving administration time.