bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two Models of Jewish Philosophy
Authors: Rynhold Daniel
Published: April 2005

Judaism is a religion that historically has emphasized the importance of a set of practical commandments, and in the history of Jewish philosophy various attempts have been made to rationalize or justify these commandments. In this book, Daniel Rynhold attempts to formulate a general model for the justification of practices out of a critical analysis of approaches taken to the issue of ta’amei ha-mitzvot (the rationalization of the commandments) within Jewish philosophy.

Bringing a modern analytical framework to bear on the methods of the medieval philosopher Moses Maimonides and the contemporary thinker Joseph Soloveitchik, Rynhold argues that despite being put forward as opposing approaches, their views on ta’amei ha-mitzvot share a central methodological presumption—the Priority of Theory (PoT). Rynhold’s critique of this method, based primarily on developing an argument from uncodifiability is followed by the development of his own original method of justifying practices that he terms the Priority of Practice (PoP). Rynhold’s innovative approach, based on an analysis of the concept of faith as presented in certain central strands of the Jewish tradition emphasizes the limits of propositional methods for justifying practices in general and the need for a more pragmatic line in which practices are justified practically rather than by reference to theories and principles. Whilst much work in Jewish philosophy is more historical than conceptual, Rynhold’s attempt to bring together Jewish and general philosophy yields a work that illustrates how Jewish philosophy can be of more than historical interest and make a genuine contribution to current philosophical debate.
4 Problems with Principles
Authors: Rynhold Daniel
Published: April 2005

Develops an anti-theory objection from uncodifiability, which questions the central assumption of the PoT theorist—that we can codify a practice in a set of principles—in order to argue that the PoT approach is unsuited to the justification of practices. Despite the project of codification of the halakhah in Judaism, it is argued that while Halakhic principles might have pragmatic uses, even here there is a degree of scepticism towards codification. In the latter part of the chapter, an alternative functional approach to the analysis of the nature of justification is presented. Here, we begin by asking what the function of justification is for us, and then ask what a concept providing that function would be like. The function of a practical justification is then argued to be the production of a reasoned confidence in one's practice.
Mesostructure of Calcium Silicate Hydrate (C‐S‐H) Gels in Portland Cement Paste: Short‐Range Ordering, Nanocrystallinity, and Local Compositional Order
Authors: Viehland Dwight , Li Jie‐Fang , Yuan Li‐Jian , Xu Zhengkui
Published: April 2005

Transmission electron microscopy studies of calcium silicate hydrate gels in portland cement were performed. Selected area electron diffraction studies revealed diffuse rings, indicating the presence of short‐range ordering. Investigations of various regions within the gel found strong fluctuations in the diffuseness of the rings; corresponding local compositional probes showed the presence of large fluctuations in the local calcium:silicon ratio. Lattice imaging studies were then performed to determine the nature of the short‐range ordering These investigations revealed nanocrystalline regions within an amorphous matrix. The local composition within the nanocrystalline regions is believed to be homogeneous. However, strong fluctuations in the local compositional order parameter between various regions would seemingly exist. Optical diffractograms taken from individual nanocrystalline regions demonstrated the coexistence of both jennite and 1.4‐nm tobermorite structural elements, supporting the essential features of the Taylor nanophasic model.
Simultaneous Synthesis and Densification of MoSi2 by Field‐Activated Combustion
Authors: Shon I. J. , Munir Z. A. , Yamazaki K. , Shoda K.
Published: April 2005

A method to simultaneously synthesize and consolidate MoSi2 from powders of Mo and Si was investigated. Combustion synthesis was carried out under the combined effect of an electric field and mechanical pressure. Highly dense molybdenum silicide up to (99.2%) was produced from elemental powders in one step. Minor amounts of Mo5Si3 were present at the boundaries of MoSi2 grains in the interior of samples made from stoichiometric reactants. The addition of 2.5 mol% Si excess, however, resulted in Mo5Si3‐free, dense MoSi2 products.
Cyclic Damage in Lead Zirconate Titanate
Authors: Hill Michael D. , White Grady S. , Hwang Cheol‐Seong , Lloyd Isabel K.
Published: April 2005

The effect of mechanical cycling (four‐point bending) and electrical cycling (ac excitation at the longitudinal resonance frequency) on the degradation of the mechanical properties of PZT‐8 bars was examined. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed microcracks which originated from second‐phase material located at triple junctions. Energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) showed that this second‐phase material contained Pb, Ti, and Fe, but no detectable Zr. High intergranular microcrack densities were observed for mechanically cycled samples and samples electrically cycled at temperatures ≤80°C. Electrically cycled samples allowed to heat to a steady‐state temperature of 180°C showed much lower crack densities. Piezoelectric coefficient (d33) measurements revealed that depolarization occurs in the 180°C electrically cycled samples, but not in mechanically cycled materials nor in the 80°C electrically cycled material. Also, samples heated in a furnace to 180°C in the absence of external stress showed no evidence of depolarization. It appears that elevated temperatures (∼180°C) are necessary to cause depolarization in PZT‐8 at the resonance‐induced stresses used in this work.
Effects of Neodymium Concentration on Optical Characteristics of Polycrystalline Nd:YAG Laser Materials
Authors: Ikesue Akio , Kamata Kiichiro , Yoshida Kunio
Published: April 2005

A neodymium‐doped yttrium‐aluminum garnet (Y3A15O12, YAG) (Nd:YAG) ceramic that contained 0.3–4.8 at.% neodymium additives and exhibited nearly the same optical properties as those of a single crystal was fabricated by a solid‐state reaction method using high‐purity powders. Although the integrated absorption intensity of the 2H9/2+4F5/2 bands simply increased as the neodymium concentration in the YAG ceramics decreased, the fluorescence intensity of the 2.4 at.% Nd:YAG ceramic was the strongest among Nd:YAG ceramics with various neodymium concentrations and a 0.9 at.% Nd:YAG single crystal. An oscillation experiment was performed on a continuous‐wave (cw) laser with a diode‐laser exciting system using those ceramics and the single crystal. The oscillation threshold and slope efficiency in that analysis were 309 mW and 28%, respectively, for the 1.1 at.% Nd:YAG ceramics and 356 mW and 40%, respectively, for the 2.4 at.% Nd:YAG ceramics. The lasing characteristics of the ceramics in the present work were superior to those of a 0.9 at.% Nd:YAG single crystal that was fabricated by the Czochralski (Cz) method.
Microstructural Evolution during Transient Plastic Phase Processing of Titanium Carbide‐Titanium Boride Composites
Authors: Brodkin Dmitri , Kalidindi Surya R. , Barsoum Michel W. , Zavaliangos Antonios
Published: April 2005

Transient plastic phase processing is a form of reactive hot pressing for fabricating fully dense ceramic‐ceramic composites at relative low homologous temperatures. In this study, this technique has been used on two powder mixtures—4:1 Ti/B4C and 1:1 TiC0.5/TiB2, which are equivalent in terms of elemental compositions—to produce fully dense titanium carbide‐titanium boride composites. The composites formed in each case are comprised of the same final phases—TiCx, TiB2, and Ti3B4, in roughly the same volume fractions—but exhibit distinctly different grain morphologies. Ti3B4 phase nucleates and grows as platelets for the 4:1 Ti/B4C starting composition but as equiaxed grains for the 1:1 TiC0.5/TiB2 composition. TiB has been identified as an intermediate phase in the “platelet” composition and appears to be important to the development of the Ti3B4 platelets. X‐ray diffractometry and scanning electron microscopy results indicate that the evolution of the microstructure is governed by the diffusion of boron and carbon, rather than titanium. In addition, the faster diffusion of carbon, relative to boron, is instrumental in the microstructural evolution of the platelet composite. The produced composites possess >99% density and good mechanical properties. The higher strength and toughness of the platelet composite are believed to be due to the platelet morphology of the Ti3B4 phase.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Remarkable Ceramic: Ti3SiC2
Authors: Barsoum Michel W. , El‐Raghy Tamer
Published: April 2005

Polycrystalline bulk samples of Ti3SiC2 were fabricated by reactively hot‐pressing Ti, graphite, and SiC powders at 40 MPa and 1600°C for 4 h. This compound has remarkable properties. Its compressive strength, measured at room temperature, was 600 MPa, and dropped to 260 MPa at 1300°C in air. Although the room‐temperature failure was brittle, the high‐temperature load‐displacement curve shows significant plastic behavior. The oxidation is parabolic and at 1000° and 1400°C the parabolic rate constants were, respectively, 2 × 10−8 and 2 × 10−5 kg2‐m−4.s−1. The activation energy for oxidation is thus =300 kJ/mol. The room‐temperature electrical conductivity is 4.5 × 106Ω−1.m−1, roughly twice that of pure Ti. The thermal expansion coefficient in the temperature range 25° to 1000°C, the room‐temperature thermal conductivity, and the heat capacity are respectively, 10 × 10−6°C−1, 43 W/(m.K), and 588 J/(kgK). With a hardness of 4 GPa and a Young's modulus of 320 GPa, it is relatively soft, but reasonably stiff. Furthermore, Ti3SiC2 does not appear to be susceptible to thermal shock; quenching from 1400°C into water does not affect the postquench bend strength. As significantly, this compound is as readily machinable as graphite. Scanning electron microscopy of polished and fractured surfaces leaves little doubt as to its layered nature.
Effect of Calcium Doping on the Atomistic Structure of the (1104) Twin Boundary in Alumina
Authors: Höche Thomas , Rühle Manfred
Published: April 2005

This high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) study revealed changes due to calcium segregation in the atomistic structure of the (1104) twin boundary in α‐Al2O3. Calcium grain‐boundary doped and undoped twins were prepared using ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) diffusion bonding of two highly pure single crystals. Two distinct boundary configurations—each having mirror and glide mirror symmetry—were found in the calcium‐doped bicrystal. Thus far, only the mirror‐related configuration could be identified in the undoped boundary. To estimate the atomistic structure of the grain boundary, simulated images of four supercells with different calcium contents were compared to experimental HRTEM micrographs. The amount of calcium found at the (1104) twin boundary using this method was consistent with results that were obtained by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy.
Ion Irradiation of Preceramic Polymer Thin Films
Authors: Pivin Jean Claude , Colombo Paolo , Tonidandel Marco
Published: April 2005

Thin films of two preceramic polymers, namely polycarbosilane (PCS) and a silicone resin (SR350), were deposited on Si substrates. Instead of employing conventional annealing at high temperatures in an inert atmosphere, ion irradiation was used to achieve the polymer‐to‐ceramic conversion. A detailed investigation of the changes in the composition, chemical structure, and hardness was performed by means of ion beam analysis (Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, nuclear reaction analysis, and elastic recoil detection analysis), FTIR, Raman and nanoindentation, respectively. This processing method yielded amorphous Si‐C and Si‐O‐C coatings possessing high hardness and density. Compared to films heat‐treated under vacuum at 1000°C, ion‐irradiated ones exhibited a similar hydrogen content, a lower oxygen contamination, and a higher carbon content. Annealing at 1000°C of previously irradiated films resulted in coatings still possessing a high carbon content and a high hardness.
Controlled Phase Transformations by Glass Particle Size in Spodumene and Cordierite Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Shyu Jiin‐Jyh , Wang Ching‐Yueh , Chang Tzu‐Yi
Published: April 2005

The effects of the particle size of initial glass powders on the phase transformations in Li2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 and MgO‐Al2O3‐SiO2 glass‐ceramics were investigated. Both materials undergo crystallization of glass to a metastable phase and a subsequent metastable‐stable transformation. As particle size is decreased, the crystallization of glass to the metastable phase is accelerated, because of the increase in the total number of nucleating sites on the particle surfaces. The metastable‐stable transformation is restricted as the particle size is decreased. This phenomenon is explained by the decrease in the crystal size of the metastable phase as a result of decreasing the particle size. The metastable‐stable transformation of the fine crystals is restricted by the constraint imposed by the surrounding matrix.
The effect of combination therapy with propylthiouracil and cholestyramine in the treatment of Graves’ hyperthyroidism
Authors: Tsai Wen‐Chin , Pei Dee , Wang Tso‐Fu , Wu Du‐An , Li Jer‐Chuan , Wei Cheng Lian , Lee Chien‐Hsing , Chen Sheng‐Pyng , Kuo Shi‐Wen
Published: April 2005

Objective  The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of combination therapy with propylthiouracil (PTU) and cholestyramine in the treatment of Graves’ hyperthyroidism.

Background  Thyroxine (T4) is metabolized mainly in the liver by conjugation to glucuronides and sulphates that enter the enterohepatic circulation. Thyrotoxic patients have an abnormal increase in thyroid hormone in their enterohepatic circulation. Previous studies on combination therapy with methimazole and cholestyramine for Graves’ hyperthyroidism have shown it to be an effective adjunctive treatment. In this study, we examined the efficacy of combination therapy with PTU and cholestyramine in the treatment of Graves’ hyperthyroidism.

Methods  Thirty patients with newly diagnosed Graves’ hyperthyroidism were randomly divided into two groups: group I (n = 15) received PTU 100 mg twice a day, propranolol 40 mg twice a day and cholestyramine 4 g twice a day for 4 weeks; group II (n = 15) received PTU 100 mg twice a day and propranolol 40 mg twice a day for 4 weeks. The therapeutic efficacy was determined by serum total triiodothyronine (TT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and TRAb levels at baseline, and at the end of 2 and 4 weeks during the study period.

Results  There was no significant difference in baseline thyroid function parameters. At the end of 2 and 4 weeks of the study period, serum TT3 and FT4 levels of group I were significantly lower than those of group II. No significant differences in the TRAb level were found between the two groups.

Conclusion  Cholestyramine contributed to a more rapid and complete decline in thyroid hormone levels in patients with Graves’ hyperthyroidism. It was thus proved to be an effective and well‐tolerated adjunctive therapy.
Are thyroid peroxidase antibodies associated with cardiovascular disease risk in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism?
Authors: Wells Brian J. , Hueston William J.
Published: April 2005

Objective Conflicting evidence has been reported about whether subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is associated with hyperlipidemia or cardiovascular disease. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) are more common in persons with SCH. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the presence of (TPOAb) in people with SCH is associated with markers of cardiovascular disease.

Design Cross‐sectional study using multivariate regression.

Patients Adults over age 40 who, in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III, met the criteria for SCH (n = 188).

Measurements Participants were stratified into TPOAb‐negative (n = 82) and TPOAb‐positive (n = 106) groups. Markers of cardiovascular disease risk were compared between the TPOAb‐negative and TPOAb‐positive groups. Multivariate regression models were performed to adjust for potential confounders.

Results In bivariate analyses, individuals with and without TPOAb had similar levels of triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein, low‐density lipoprotein, total cholesterol and C‐reactive protein. Homocysteine levels were higher in the patients without antibodies (P = 0·01). After adjusting for, age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes and use of a lipid‐lowering medication, however, no statistically significant relationships were found between the presence of TPOAb and any of the cardiovascular risk markers.

Conclusions The presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies does not appear to correlate with cardiovascular disease risk in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. This study does not support the measurement of TPOAb antibodies in SCH as a strategy for guiding treatment or assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.
Testing the Functions of Detritus Stabilimenta in Webs of Cyclosa fililineata and Cyclosa morretes (Araneae: Araneidae): Do They Attract Prey or Reduce the Risk of Predation?
Authors: Gonzaga Marcelo O. , Vasconcellos‐Neto João
Published: April 2005

Spiders of the genus Cyclosa often add prey remains and other debris to their orb‐webs. The function of silk decorations is generally associated with defense against predators or with the attraction of prey, but few studies have focused on stabilimenta containing detritus. In this study, we used artificial webs with and without the detritus stabilimenta of two species of Cyclosa to investigate whether these structures increase the number of insects intercepted. Artificial models of spiders and stabilimenta were used to compare the frequency of attacks against different shapes. We also conducted choice experiments in laboratory to determine whether detritus columns attracted Drosophila melanogaster (Diptera: Drosophilidae) and Trigona angustula (Hymenoptera: Apidae, Meliponinae) to the webs. The frequency of interception in artificial webs with a stabilimentum was similar to that of webs without such structure. The taxonomic composition and biomass of insects were also similar in both types of artificial webs. The choice experiments showed no significant tendency in attraction to webs with a stabilimentum. However, models of spiders were attacked at a higher frequency than those simulating detritus columns and silk decorations. These findings argue against the prey attraction hypothesis and suggest that the addition of stabilimenta to webs of Cyclosa could reduce the intensity of predation, possibly by disrupting the image of the spider's outline.
Outcome following radiotherapy for loco‐regionally recurrent non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Foo K , Gebski V , Yeghiaian‐Alvandi R , Foroudi F , Cakir B
Published: April 2005

Local and regional recurrence of non‐small cell lung cancer is reported to occur in 13–20% of treatment failures after resection. Reported post‐recurrent median survival following radiotherapy ranges from 9 to 14 months. This study examines survival following radiotherapy alone for patients with loco‐regionally recurring non‐small cell lung cancer after initial surgery. Fifty‐five patients, receiving radiotherapy at Westmead Hospital between 1979 and 1997, were eligible for study. Data were collected retrospectively by reviewing patient records. The end‐point was overall survival. Symptom control was also recorded. Prognostic factors for analysis included age, sex, original presenting stage, disease‐free interval (DFI), performance status, site of recurrence, treatment intent and dose. The median overall survival was 11.5 months (95% confidence interval: 8.1–13.0). Survival following treatment with radical intent was 26 months compared to 10.5 months for patients treated with palliative intent (P = 0.025). There was no significant difference in survival for short (≤2 years) or long DFI, performance status, radiation dose, age, sex, site of recurrence or stage. Most patients (55%) had partial or complete resolution of symptoms. Radiotherapy results in overall post‐recurrence median survival of nearly 1 year, consistent with previous published data. Radical treatment intent predicts better prognosis as a result of patient selection and higher dose. Radiotherapy is effective at palliating symptoms of this disease.
Neurenteric cyst of the posterior mediastinum
Authors: Setty HAN , Hegde KKS , Narvekar VN
Published: April 2005

We report a case of a large posterior mediastinal neurenteric cyst in a neonate demonstrated by chest radiographs, barium swallow examination, ultrasonography and CT of the thorax. All the investigations revealed a large posterior mediastinal cystic mass with vertebral anomalies in the form of scoliosis and hemivertebra. The cyst was completely excised by a right posterolateral thoracotomy and biopsy showed the features of a neurenteric cyst. The rarity of the lesion prompted us to report this case.
Imaging spectrum in disseminated histoplasmosis: Case report and brief review
Authors: Grover SB , Midha N , Gupta M , Sharma U , Talib VH
Published: April 2005

The clinical manifestations of chronic disseminated histoplasmosis are non‐specific and resemble those of other chronic infections and malignancies. We report the radiographic, sonographic and contrast‐enhanced CT appearances of histoplasmosis in an adult male with non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, who was HIV negative and presented with weight loss and pyrexia. Imaging studies simulated tuberculosis with mediastinal lymphadenopathy, bilateral fibrotic lung lesions, hepatomegaly and bilateral hypoattenuating adrenal enlargement, without clinical or laboratory evidence of hypoadrenalism. Computed tomography‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy of adrenal glands revealed Histoplasma capsulatum. We report our experience to increase awareness of the imaging spectrum of disseminated histoplasmosis and its similarity to tuberculosis as, with increasing incidence of AIDS, the chances of these infections are likely to increase. Moreover, awareness of this entity is important because it is known that untreated disseminated histoplasmosis is fatal.
Cranial magnetic resonance imaging of Wolfram (DIDMOAD) syndrome
Authors: Pakdemirli E , Karabulut N , Bir LS , Sermez Y
Published: April 2005

Wolfram syndrome is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy and deafness (DIDMOAD). A wide spectrum of abnormalities of the central nervous system, urinary tract and endocrine glands is also observed. We report cranial MRI findings in a 32‐year‐old female patient with Wolfram syndrome. In addition to the classical features, including absence of the normal high signal of the neurohypophysis, atrophy of visual pathways, the brainstem, cerebellum and cerebral cortex, we observed bilateral hyperintensity on proton density‐ and T2‐ weighted images related to the optic radiations in the periventricular white matter of the temporal and parieto‐occipital lobes, which may reflect gliosis pathologically.
Clinical audit of the use of fresh‐frozen plasma and platelets in a tertiary teaching hospital and the impact of a new transfusion request form
Authors: Hui C.‐H. , Williams I. , Davis K.
Published: April 2005

Abstract

Aim:  To carry out an audit of the appropriateness of fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) and platelets (Plt) transfusion with reference to the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council/Australian Society of Blood Transfusion Clinical Practice Guidelines, and to assess the impact of a self‐educating transfusion request form.

Methods:  A prospective review of the clinical indications and laboratory data in all transfusion episodes of FFP and Plt occurring in a tertiary teaching hospital in South Australia in two 2‐month periods of the years 2002 and 2003.

Results:  Reversal of warfarin has emerged as the major indication to transfuse FFP (34%). More than 72% FFP and 88% Plt were prescribed in an appropriate manner, and the majority were monitored adequately. The transfusion request form further improved the appropriate uses and was met with a satisfactory compliance. Further grounds for improvement are in FFP usage by the haematology unit and in cardiac bypass surgery, and Plt by surgical units.

Conclusion:  Clinical transfusion audit helps to identify current pattern of usage and areas of improvement. A self‐educating transfusion specific request form is also beneficial. (Intern Med J 2004; 35: 283–288)
Readmission patterns in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic heart failure and diabetes mellitus: an administrative dataset analysis
Authors: Brand C. , Sundararajan V. , Jones C. , Hutchinson A. , Campbell D.
Published: April 2005

Abstract

Comprehensive disease management programmes for chronic disease aim to improve patient outcomes and reduce health‐care utilization. Readmission rates are often used as an outcome measure of effectiveness. This study aimed to document readmission rates, and risk for early and late readmission, for patients discharged from the Royal Melbourne Hospital with a disease diagnosis of chronic heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or diabetes mellitus compared to those with other general medical conditions. Eighty five (8.6%) of patients were readmitted within 28 days and 183 (20.8%) were readmitted between 29 and 180 days. No risk factors for early readmission were identified. Patients with a primary disease diagnosis of CHF and COPD are at increased risk of late readmissions (29–180 days). (Intern Med J 2005; 35: 296–299)
Late Marketisation versus Late Industrialisation in East Asia
Authors: Lee Keun , Lin Justin Y. , Chang Ha‐Joon
Published: April 2005

This article analyses the complex interplay of various factors in the ‘late marketisation’ in China and Vietnam and the ‘late industrialisation’ in Korea, Taiwan and Japan. The article distinguishes the degree of ‘comparative advantage‐defying’ and ‘comparative advantage‐following’ strategies adopted, and thereby explains the different growth and transition records in the two groups of countries. The article also links the choice of reform strategies to the initial conditions, and attributes the post‐transition economic record to the policies adopted. The differences in the allocation of rents and the principal ways in which market discipline was introduced are also discussed.
A new measure of children's optimism and pessimism: the youth life orientation test
Authors: Ey Sydney , Hadley Wendy , Allen Deanna Nuttbrock , Palmer Shawna , Klosky James , Deptula Daneen , Thomas Jay , Cohen Robert
Published: April 2005

Background:  Optimism and pessimism are positive and negative expectations linked with well‐being in adults. Research on the importance of optimism and pessimism in children is limited by the lack of a developmentally appropriate measure of children's expectations.

Method:  Based upon the Life Orientation Test‐Revised (Scheier, Carver, & Bridges, 1994), the Youth Life Orientation Test (YLOT) is a sixteen‐item self‐report measure of children's optimism and pessimism.

Results:  Reliability and validity of the YLOT was found with 204 3rd–6th graders. Optimism also predicted fewer child‐reported depressive symptoms and parent‐reported behavior problems assessed three months later. Pessimism predicted more child‐reported anxiety symptoms and parent‐reported social and academic deficits.
Practitioner Review: Early adversity and developmental disorders
Authors: Taylor Eric , Rogers Jody Warner
Published: April 2005

Background:  Knowledge of genetic influences, on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities, has increased the opportunities for understanding the influences of the early environment.

Methods:  This paper provides a selective, narrative review for clinicians of the effects of factors such as exposure to toxins and stresses in utero and in postnatal life; brain injuries and perinatal compromise; neglect, malnutrition and selective food deficiencies. It also considers what is known about the mechanisms through which early adversities operate.

Results:  Gaps in the research are identified and suggestions made about clinical investigations. Several types of environmental adversity have associations with later disorders that suggest a causal role. The effects are often on a broad range of psychological processes, and are not always quickly reversible. Several adversities often coexist, calling for skilled judgement about priorities in treatment.

Conclusions:  Individuals vary considerably in their exposure to adversity and their vulnerability to its effects, and genetic inheritance can influence both.
One or More Extinctions born Sulawesi, Indonesia?
Authors: WHITTEN ANTHONY J. , BISHOP K DAVID , NASH STEPHEN V. , CLAYTON LYNN
Published: April 2005

Abstract:During the course of a recent compilation of information concerning the natural history of Sulawesi, Indonesia, it became apparent that there were no recent records of the endemic Caerulean paradise‐flycatcher Eutrichomyias rowleyi and few of the endemic species of the fish family Adrianichthyidae. Efforts were made to confirm the continued existence of these animals but without success, and while it is impossible to be certain, we suggest that these species, and perhaps others from their communities, may be extinct or iritically endangered It is of great concern that none of the species discussed has ever been mentioned in the IUCNRed Data books, and it is suggested that further species in the endemic‐rich area ofWallacea may also have become extinct in the last few decades.
Peasant Agriculture and the Conservation of Crop and Wild Plant Resources
Authors: ALTIERI MIGUEL A. , ANDERSON M. KAT , MERRICK LAURA C.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:Peasant agroecosystems are seen as a continuum of integrated farming units and natural ecosystems where plant gathering and crop production are actively practiced Many of these traditional agroecosystems still found throughout developing countries constitute major in situ repositories of both crop and wild plant gemzplasm. These plant resources are directly dependent upon management by human groups; thus, they have evolved in part under the influence of farming practices shaped by particular cultures. Because genetic conservation programs are more effective when preserving the ecosystems in which the resources occur, maintenance of traditional farming systems and adjacent natural ecosystems is proposed as a sensible strategy for in situ preservation of crop and wild plant genetic resources. It is here argued that preservation efforts should be linked to rural development projects that take into account the eth‐nobotanical knowledge of rural people and that emphasize both food self‐sufficiency as well as local resource conservation. Preservation of these traditional agroecosystems cannot be achieved when isolated from maintenance of the culture of the local people. Therefore, projects should also emphasize maintenance of cultural diversity.
The Effect of Habitat Alteration on Migratory Land Birds in a West Mexican Tropical Deciduous Forest: A Conservation Perspective
Authors: HUTTO RICHARD L.
Published: April 2005

I compared point count census data from both short and tall second‐growth sites with counts taken from a nearby undisturbed tropical deciduous forest in coastal Jalisco, Mexico. Each of the second‐growth sites differed significantly from the undisturbed forest in its bird composition Much of the change can be attributed to the improvement of conditions for some guild members (e.g., seedeaters) and the removal of adequate conditions for others (eg., trunk‐foragers, Nit‐eaten). Nonetheless, there was a significant difference in the effect on migrant us. Resident species that was independent of foraging guild; longdistance migratory species were significantly more likely to increase in abundance as a result of disturbance than were resident species Thus; many migratory species in western Mexico may benefit from the human‐caused creation of midsuccessional habitats. It is important to note however, that this conclusion may not apply to more intensely disturbed habitats and does not apply to all migratory species In addition without information on the habitat and geographical distribution of migrants in winter, and habitat‐dependent mortality rates, we cannot draw conclusions about the had‐scale effects on the species that showed population changes in response to habitat disturbance.
Possible Effects of Acidic Deposition on a Rocky Mountain Population of the Tiger Salamander Ambystoma tigrtinum
Authors: HARTE JOHN , HOFFMAN ERIKA
Published: April 2005

To investigate possible biological effects of acidic deposition in the western United States, we performed population censuses and dose‐response experiments at a subalpine watershed in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, An adult tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum nebulosum) population declined by 65% over seven years, while larval recruitment declined over all but the last year of his period A. tigrinum eggs had an LD‐50 pH of 5.6, which is within the range encountered by eggs at this site during snow melt. Although the decline of A. tigrinum at this watershed could be a natural fluctuation, the available evidence is consistent with the bypothesis that acidic deposition is its cause. Thus, the decline of A. tigrinum at the watershed may be the first indication of biological damage from acidic deposition in the western United States
Scientists as Advocates: The Point Reyes Bird Observatory and Gill Netting in Central California
Authors: SALZMAN JAMESE.
Published: April 2005

Abstrack:

Scientists and scientific organizations can play singularly important roles as advocates in the public resolution of conservation disputes One scientific organization, the Point Reyes Bird Observatory, was instrumental in resolving an environmental controversy in the early 1980s over the use of gill nets off central California The gill‐net fishery was killing thousands of birds annually. The Point Reyes Bird Observatory's use of its scientific data facilitated negotiation and formed the basis for the threat of litigation These efforts spurred enforcement of federal wildlife legislation and helped forge a permanent solution acceptable to state and federal environmental agencies, conservation groups, and local fishermen. But there are constraints on the active involvement of scientists in public disputes. The contentious nature of the decision‐ding forum, the exigencies and uncertainty inherent in policy decisions, and the bias popularly associated with lobbying efforts all tend to dissuade scientists from participation as advocates in public controversies. The gill‐net case suggests that when coupled with supportive legislation, focused advocacy‐the presentation of relevant data and insistence that it be interpreted accurately and acted upon‐is an effective method of achieving biologically sound policies.
Life‐threatening adverse reaction followed by thrombocytopenia after passive transfusion of fresh frozen plasma containing anti‐CD36 (Naka) isoantibody
Authors: Morishita Katsuya , Wakamoto Shinobu , Miyazaki Toru , Sato Shinichiro , Fujihara Mitsuhiro , Kaneko Sadao , Yasuda Hiroshi , Yamamoto Sadamitsu , Azuma Hiroshi , Kato Toshiaki , Ikeda Hisami
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND: Anti‐CD36 isoantibody in blood recipients is reported to cause refractoriness to platelet (PLT) transfusions and posttransfusion purpura–like syndrome. There are few reports, however, about the effects of passively transfused blood products containing this isoantibody on recipients.

CASE REPORT: A 67‐year‐old Japanese woman underwent brain surgery. On the 6th postoperative day, the patient experienced tightness of the chest and nausea after receiving a transfusion of fresh frozen plasma (FFP). When she manifested hypotension, the transfusion was discontinued. No cutaneous manifestation was observed. The patient's condition gradually improved soon after the administration of steroids.

RESULTS: Her pretransfusion PLT count was 17.1 × 104 per µL. It decreased to 1.9 × 104 per µL 12 hours after transfusion and recovered to 15.4 × 104 per µL 8 days after transfusion. The donor of the FFP had a Type I CD36 deficiency. Flow cytometric analysis identified anti‐CD36 isoantibody in the FFP. The cross‐match between the patient's PLTs and the FFP was positive. The FFP induced the aggregation of PLTs derived from healthy adults.

CONCLUSION: This is the first reported case of life‐threatening adverse effects and thrombocytopenia caused by passively transfused anti‐CD36 isoantibody. The possibility of passive infusion of this antibody should be considered in the evaluation of life‐threatening transfusion reactions followed by thrombocytopenia.
Frequently used plateletpheresis techniques result in variable target yields and platelet recruitment of donors
Authors: Strasser Erwin F. , Schuster Marco , Egler Kerstin , Bauer Jörg , Weisbach Volker , Ringwald Jürgen , Zimmermann Robert , Zingsem Jürgen , Eckstein Reinhold
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND: Standard plateletpheresis techniques and effects on platelet (PLT) donors were investigated to provide an informative basis for advancement of apheresis software.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Three paired groups with 33 male and 22 female blood donors were prospectively investigated by analyzing blood counts of donors and products. Four apheresis platforms, the COBE Spectra LRS and the Trima v4 (Gambro BCT) and the AS.TEC204 and the COM.TEC (Fresenius Hemocare), were compared. Deviations of the collected from programmed PLT targets and donor PLT recruitment were calculated for single‐unit PLT concentrates (SU‐PCs; 3 × 1011 PLTs) and double‐unit PLT concentrates (DU‐PCs; 6 × 1011 PLTs).

RESULTS: Regarding SU‐PCs, the productivity of the COM.TEC machine was superior to the AS.TEC204 machine, because of shorter processing time (54 min vs. 67 min) and higher yields (2.90 × 1011 PLTs vs. 2.75 × 1011 PLTs). Compared to the Spectra machine, the Trima v4 machine showed higher collection efficiencies (CEs) and shorter processing time and complied better with the programmed target (SU‐PCs, 3.24 × 1011 PLTs vs. 3.70 × 1011 PLTs; DU‐PCs, 6.87 × 1011 PLTs vs. 7.56 × 1011 PLTs). Harvests of the Spectra machine (DU‐PCs) exceeded the target by 40 percent, which resulted in high PLT loss for donors. A longer processing time resulted in some higher CEs (SU‐PCs, 53%; DU‐PCs, 58%), which could contribute to this result. PLT recruitment compensated PLT loss to some extent.

CONCLUSION: The major finding was that the newer devices (COM.TEC and Trima) gave more predictable yields than the older devices (AS.TEC204 and Spectra) and resulted in lower PLT deficit. PLT software should be improved to minimize relevant variations of collected yields regarding the programmed target.
Use of polyethylene glycol for performing autologous adsorptions
Authors: Cid Joan , Ortín Xavier , Pinacho Asunción , Parra Rafael , Contreras Enric , Elies Enric
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND: Our reference adsorption procedure is to autoadsorb serum with ZZAP‐pretreated patients’ red cells (RBCs), although it is time‐consuming. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) for performing autologous adsorption procedures without pretreatment of patients’ RBCs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Equal volumes of patient's plasma, patient's RBCs, and PEG were mixed. This mixture was incubated for 15 minutes at 37°C, and the adsorbed plasma‐PEG mixture was immediately harvested to proceed to the antiglobulin test with anti‐immunoglobulin G. The ZZAP‐adsorption procedure was performed in our reference laboratory.

RESULTS: Thirty‐one samples were detected with warm autoantibodies in pretransfusion testing. A total number of 58 autologous adsorption procedures were performed with PEG in 870 minutes (mean, 28 min) and alloantibodies were detected in 4 (13%) cases (anti‐E in 2 cases and anti‐E + K in 2 cases). Our reference laboratory performed a total number of 61 adsorption procedures with ZZAP in 3660 minutes (mean, 118 min) and detected the same alloantibodies specificities.

CONCLUSION: The PEG autologous adsorption procedure is an efficient method of enhancing autoantibody adsorption and alloantibody detection and decreasing the labor‐intensive testing required by the presence of serum warm autoantibodies in pretransfusion samples.
Asymmetric Information in the IPO Aftermarket
Authors: Li Mingsheng , McInish Thomas H. , Wongchoti Udomsak
Published: April 2005

Using the adverse selection component of the spread as a measure of asymmetric information, we investigate how asymmetric information evolves after firms go public. We find that the level of asymmetric information is lower immediately after the initial public offering (IPO) compared with its level after a period of seasoning. In addition, we test the hypothesis that the greater the underpricing of an IPO, the more information is produced in its aftermarket, and the lower the aggregate level of asymmetric information. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis and are robust after controlling for other factors.
Recent Data Trends Show Welfare Reform to Be a Mixed Success: Significant Policy Changes Should Accompany Reauthorization
Authors: O’Neill Murray Kasia , Primus Wendell E.
Published: April 2005

The conventional wisdom is that the 1996 federal welfare reform law has been a stunning success. Welfare caseloads have declined significantly and employment among disadvantaged single mothers has increased more than anticipated. Also, more low‐income children were living with married couples in the late 1990s. However, welfare reform was enacted in the midst of exceptional economic, demographic, and other policy changes and it is impossible to disentangle the impact of federal welfare reform from these other factors. This article describes these factors and puts the income gains and losses among families with children between 1996 and 2000 into the historical context of the past twenty‐five years. This analysis provides substantial evidence that welfare reform may have “worked” for many low‐income families with children while failing other low‐income families. Furthermore, despite recent increases in poverty following the 2001 recession, welfare caseloads continued to decline, indicating a fundamental flaw in what has traditionally been a countercyclical program. Data also suggest that the significant increase over the 1990s in the share of low‐income children living with married couples has been reversed following the recent recession. These findings suggest that the 1996 welfare law needs to be considerably retooled.
Conducting Meta‐Analyses of Evaluations of Government‐Funded Training Programs
Authors: Greenberg David H. , Robins Philip K. , Walker Robert
Published: April 2005

Government‐funded training programs in the United States have often been subject to rigorous evaluation. Indeed, many of these programs have been evaluated with random assignment, although sophisticated quasi‐experimental methods have also been used. Until very recently, however, there has been little systematic attempt to use the cumulative information vested in these evaluations to attempt determine which kinds of programs work best in which setting and with respect to which types of client. Meta‐analysis—a set of statistical procedures for systematically synthesizing findings from separate studies—can, in theory at least, address these and other topics that evaluation of individual programs cannot. This article discusses the steps in conducting such a synthesis, summarizes the results of three recently conducted meta‐analyses of training and welfare‐to‐work programs, identifies limitations to the meta‐analytic approach, and considers ways in which some of these limitations can be overcome.
Investing in Individuals for Independence
Authors: Rom Mark Carl
Published: April 2005

Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) are tax‐protected, matched savings accounts designed to help those with low incomes and few assets buy a home, capitalize a business, or fund higher education. Originally authorized through the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA), IDAs are designed, implemented, and evaluated through public‐private partnerships. In January 2003 over 500 IDA programs had been created, with more than 10,000 low‐income individuals making contributions. This paper outlines the rationale for IDA as an asset building strategy for the poor, describes the design and operation of IDAs, and provides results of early program evaluations. It concludes by arguing that IDAs are a smart practice that can and should be expanded.
Root herbivory reduces growth and survival of the shoot feeding specialist Pieris rapae on Brassica nigra
Authors: Van Dam Nicole M. , Raaijmakers Ciska E. , Van Der Putten Wim H.
Published: April 2005

Plants may respond to herbivore attacks by changing their chemical profile. Such induced responses occur both locally and systemically throughout the plant. In this paper we studied how Brassica nigra (L.) Koch (Brassicaceae) plants respond to two different root feeders, the endoparasitic nematode Pratylenchus penetrans Cobb (Tylenchida: Pratylenchidae) and the larvae of the cabbage root fly Delia radicum L. (Diptera: Anthomyiidae). We tested whether the activities of the root feeders affected the survival and development of the shoot feeding crucifer specialist Pieris rapae (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) via systemically induced changes in the shoots. Overall, P. rapae larvae grew slower and produced fewer pupae on plants that were infested with root feeders, especially on plants infested with P. penetrans. This effect could not be attributed to lower water or protein levels in these plants, as the percentage of water in the controls and root infested shoots was similar, and protein content was even higher in root infested plants. Both glucosinolate as well as phenolic levels were affected by root feeding. Initially, glucosinolate levels were the lowest in root infested plants, but on P. penetrans infested plants they increased more rapidly after P. rapae started feeding than in controls or D. radicum infested plants. Plants with D. radicum feeding on their roots had the highest phenolic levels at all harvest dates. Our results indicate that root feeding can significantly alter the nutritional quality of shoots by changes in secondary metabolite levels and hence the performance of a specialist shoot feeder.