bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scale‐up of Enzyme‐Assisted Aqueous Extraction Processing of Soybeans
Authors: de Moura Juliana Maria Leite Nobrega , de Almeida N. M. , Johnson L. A.
Published: June 2009

The effects of scaling‐up enzyme‐assisted aqueous extraction process (EAEP) using 2 kg of flaked and extruded soybeans as well as the effects of different extrusion and extraction conditions were evaluated. Standard single‐stage EAEP at 1:10 solids‐to‐liquid ratio (SLR) was used to evaluate the effects of different extruder screw speeds and whether or not collets were extruded directly into water. Increasing extruder screw speed from 40 to 90 rpm improved oil extraction yield from 85 to 95%. Oil, protein, and solids extraction yields of 97, 86, and 78% were obtained when extruding directly into water and 95, 84, and 77% when not extruding into water. When not extruding into water, standard single‐stage EAEP (1:10 SLR) yielded 95, 84, and 77% of total oil, protein, and solids extraction, respectively, and two‐stage countercurrent EAEP (1:6 SLR) yielded 99, 94, and 83% total oil, protein, and solids extraction, respectively. These yields were similar to those previously obtained in the laboratory (0.08 kg soybeans), but higher oil contents were observed in the skim fractions produced at pilot‐plant scale for both processes. Modifying processing parameters improved the oil distribution among the fractions, increasing oil yield in the cream fraction (from 76 to 86%) and reducing oil yield in the skim fraction (from 23 to 12%). Steady‐state oil extraction was achieved after two 2‐stage extractions. Two‐stage countercurrent EAEP is particularly attractive due to reduced water usage compared to conventional single‐stage extraction.
Characterization of the Seed Oil and Meal from Monechma ciliatum and Prunus mahaleb Seeds
Authors: Mariod Abdalbasit Adam , Aseel Kawthar Mahmoud , Mustafa Ali Abdalgadir , Abdel‐Wahab Siddig Ibrahim
Published: June 2009

The oil and meal from Monechma ciliatum (black mahlab) and Prunus mahaleb (white mahlab) seeds were characterized for their physicochemical properties. The oil content was found to be 30.95 and 13.15% in white and black mahlab seeds, respectively. The refractive indices of white mahlab oil (WMO) and black mahlab oil (BMO) were 1.475 and 1.470, and specific gravities were 0.8511 and 0.8167 g/cm3, respectively. Saponification values were 184.23 and 180.3 mg KOH/g, peroxide values were 2.54 and 4.43 meq/kg, and unsaponifiable matter was 0.92 and 0.66%, respectively. The major fatty acids were palmitic 4.5%, stearic 16.0%, oleic 47.3%, and linoleic 31.4% in BMO, while in WMO they were palmitic 5.7%, oleic 45.0%, and linoleic acid 47.0%. A moderate amount of tocopherols were found at 45.2 and 28.5 mg/100 g in BMO and WMO, respectively. Protein content was found to be 21% in black and 28% in white mahlab seeds. The total amount of amino acids in black and white mahlab seeds was found to be 783.3 and 1,223.2 mg/g N, respectively. The concentration (on ppm dry‐weight basis) of major elements (Ca, K, and Mg) and of minor elements (Al, Pb Ni, Mn, Cu, Cr, Co, and Fe) was also determined in the meals.
Determination of Essential Fatty Acids in Captured and Farmed Matrinxã (Brycon cephalus) from the Brazilian Amazonian Area
Authors: Almeida Neiva Maria , Janzantti Natália Soares , Franco Maria Regina Bueno
Published: June 2009

The aim of this research was to quantify the methyl esters of linoleic (LA), α‐linolenic (LNA), arachidonic (AA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids in the muscular tissue and orbital cavity of farmed Matrinxã (Brycon cephalus) and in those caught in the Brazilian Amazonian Area during two periods. For the farmed fish, the amounts (mg/g of fat) of LA, LNA, AA, EPA, and DHA found in the muscle were 197.6, 75.7, 165.0, 4.1, and 30.0 mg/g of fat, respectively. The amounts of these FA in the orbital cavity were 152.6, 9.1, 249.4, 3.6, and 22.3 mg/g of fat for LA, LNA, AA, EPA, and DHA, respectively. For the fish caught during the wet period, the LA, LNA, AA, EPA, and DHA found in the muscle were 438.2, 118.3, 42.7, 5.2, and 10.3 mg/g of fat, in the orbital cavity were found 489.1, 18.6, 18.1, 6.2, and 18.7 mg/g of fat, respectively. In the dry season, the amounts (mg/g of fat) of LA, LNA, AA, EPA, and DHA in the muscle were 193.1, 40.0, 43.4, 8.1, and 61.3, while the found in the orbital cavity were 152.9, 28.4, 5.1, 4.9, 19.6 mg/g of fat. According to their contents of EPA, and DHA, matrinxã captured in the dry season can be considered as a rich source of EFA.
Radiological Determination of Stone Density and Skin-to-Stone Distance—Can it Predict the Success of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy?
Authors: Pathak Sanjeev , Lavin Victoria , Vijay Ram , Basu Shuvajit , Salim Ferekh , Collins Michael , Hastie Kenneth , Hall James
Published: June 2009

Objectives:

To determine the role of stone density and skin-to-stone distance (SSD) by non-contrast computed tomography of the kidneys, ureters and bladder (CT-KUB) in predicting the success of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).

Methods:

We evaluated 89 patients who received ESWL for renal and upper ureteric calculi measuring 5–20 mm, over a 12 month period. Mean stone density in Hounsfield units (HU) and mean SSD in millimetres (mm) was determined on pre-treatment CT-KUB at the CT workstation. ESWL was successful if post-treatment residual stone fragments were ≤3 mm.

Results:

ESWL success was observed in 68.5% of the patients. Mean stone densities were 505 ± 153 and 803 ± 93 HU in ESWL successful and failure groups, respectively; this was statistically significant ( p < 0.001, student's t-test). Mean SSD were 10.6 ± 2.0 and 11.2 ± 2.6 cm in ESWL successful and failure groups, respectively, this was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

This study shows that stone density can help in predicting the outcome of ESWL. We propose that stone densities <500 HU are highly likely to result in successful ESWL. Conversely, stone densities ≥800 HU are less likely to do so. This should be accounted for when considering ESWL.
Biosensor‐based label‐free assays of amyloid growth
Authors: White Duncan A. , Buell Alexander K. , Dobson Christopher M. , Welland Mark E. , Knowles Tuomas P.J.
Published: June 2009

Uncontrolled fibrous protein aggregation is implicated in a range of aberrant biological phenomena. Much effort has consequently been directed towards establishing quantitative in vitro assays of this process with the aim of probing amyloid growth in molecular detail as well as elucidating the effect of additional species on this reaction. In this paper, we discuss some recent approaches based on label‐free technologies focussed on achieving these objectives. Several biosensor techniques have been developed to monitor biomolecular assembly without the requirement for fluorophore marker molecules; in particular quartz crystal microbalance and surface plasmon resonance measurements provide advantageous alternatives to traditional spectroscopic methods and are currently receiving increasing attention in the context of amyloid growth assays.
The role of protein synthesis in cell cycling and cancer
Authors: White-Gilbertson Shai , Kurtz David T. , Voelkel-Johnson Christina
Published: June 2009

Cell cycling and protein synthesis are both key physiological tasks for cancer cells. Here we present a model for how the elongation phase of protein synthesis, governed by elongation factor 2 and elongation factor 2 kinase, both modulates and responds to cell cycling. Within this framework we also discuss survivin, a protein with both pro‐mitotic and anti‐apoptotic roles whose persistence in the cell is tied to protein synthesis due to its short half‐life. Finally, we provide a brief overview of efforts of cancer researchers to target EF2 and EF2 kinase.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Emerging Therapy for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Markert Chad D. , Atala Anthony , Cann Jennifer K. , Christ George , Furth Mark , Ambrosio Fabrisia , Childers Martin K.
Published: June 2009

Multipotent cells that can give rise to bone, cartilage, fat, connective tissue, and skeletal and cardiac muscle are termed mesenchymal stem cells. These cells were first identified in the bone marrow, distinct from blood‐forming stem cells. Based on the embryologic derivation, availability, and various pro‐regenerative characteristics, research exploring their use in cell therapy shows great promise for patients with degenerative muscle diseases and a number of other conditions. In this review, the authors explore the potential for mesenchymal stem cell therapy in the emerging field of regenerative medicine with a focus on treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
The Active Straight Leg Raise Test and Lumbar Spine Stability
Authors: Liebenson Craig , Karpowicz Amy M. , Brown Stephen H.M. , Howarth Samuel J. , McGill Stuart M.
Published: June 2009

Objective

To determine the utility of the active straight leg raise (ASLR) test as a screen of lumbar spine stability and abdominal bracing (AB) ability.

Design

A biomechanical study of the ASLR test as a clinical evaluation of lumbar spine stability and AB.

Setting

Clinical research laboratory.

Participants

Fourteen participants who were currently asymptomatic for back pain and leg pain were evaluated.

Methods

Spine posture, muscle activation, and pressure distributions underneath the supine subject were determined.

Main Outcome Measurements

An estimation of lumbar spine stiffness, a direct correlate with spine stability, was obtained using an anatomically detailed spine model.

Results

AB during the ASLR reduced the center of pressure (CoP) movement on a strain‐based pressure mat in lumbar rotation (P < .0125) as well as reducing directly measured lumbar rotation (P = .02). Active AB increased lumbar spine stiffness (P < .002). Regression analysis between stiffness and CoP movement suggested that different participants used different strategies to control torso motion.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the ASLR has utility as a screen of lumbar spine stability and AB ability. The ASLR maneuver can assess control of lumbar rotational movements in the transverse plane. Finally, this study demonstrated that AB can measurably improve the rotational (transverse plane) stiffness of the lumbar spine.
The Effectiveness of Locomotor Therapy Using Robotic‐Assisted Gait Training in Subacute Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Schwartz Isabella , Sajin Anna , Fisher Iris , Neeb Martin , Shochina Mara , Katz‐Leurer Michal , Meiner Zeev
Published: June 2009

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of early and prolonged locomotor treatment with the use of a robotic‐assisted gait training (RAGT) device (Lokomat; Hocoma Inc., Zurich, Switzerland) on the functional outcomes of patients after subacute stroke.

Design

A nonblinded prospective, randomized, controlled study.

Setting

Rehabilitation department in tertiary university medical center.

Patients

Sixty‐seven patients in the first 3 months after subacute stroke were randomized into 2 groups as follows. Thirty‐seven patients were treated with RAGT, and 30 were treated with regular physiotherapy. Inclusion criteria were first stroke, independent ambulation before the stroke, and neurological severity between 6 and 20 according to the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS).

Intervention

RAGT treatment was administered 3 times a week for 30 minutes, combined with regular physiotherapy for 6 weeks. Control patients received the equivalent additional time of regular physiotherapy.

Main outcome measurements

The primary outcome was the ability to walk independently, as assessed by use of the functional ambulatory capacity scale. The secondary outcomes included the neurological status according to the NIHSS; functional motor assessment (determined by use of the stroke activity scale); and gait parameters, including gait velocity, endurance, and number of climbed stairs.

Results

In the intention‐to‐treat analysis, subjects in the RAGT group exhibited greater gains than the control group in their ability to walk independently, as expressed by a greater functional ambulatory capacity score (P < .01), and in their neurological status according to NIHSS (P < .01). Among those who achieved independent walking, nonsignificant differences between groups were noted according to secondary outcome measures of gait parameters except from step climbing.

Conclusion

This controlled study showed, at the end of a 6‐week trial, that locomotor therapy with the use of RAGT combined with regular physiotherapy produced promising effects on functional and motor outcomes in patients after subacute stroke as compared with regular physiotherapy alone.
Physical Exercise and Cognitive Recovery in Acquired Brain Injury: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Devine Jennifer M. , Zafonte Ross D.
Published: June 2009

Objective

Physical exercise has been shown to play an ever‐broadening role in the maintenance of overall health and has been implicated in the preservation of cognitive function in both healthy elderly and demented populations. Animal and human studies of acquired brain injury (ABI) from trauma or vascular causes also suggest a possible role for physical exercise in enhancing cognitive recovery.

Data Sources

A review of the literature was conducted to explore the current understanding of how physical exercise impacts the molecular, functional, and neuroanatomic status of both intact and brain‐injured animals and humans.

Study Selection

Searches of the MEDLINE, CINHAL, and PsychInfo databases yielded an extensive collection of animal studies of physical exercise in ABI. Animal studies strongly tie physical exercise to the upregulation of multiple neural growth factor pathways in brain‐injured animals, resulting in both hippocampal neurogenesis and functional improvements in memory.

Data Extraction

A search of the same databases for publications involving physical exercise in human subjects with ABI yielded 24 prospective and retrospective studies.

Data Synthesis

Four of these evaluated cognitive outcomes in persons with ABI who were involved in physical exercise. Three studies cited a positive association between exercise and improvements in cognitive function, whereas one observed no effect. Human exercise interventions varied greatly in duration, intensity, and level of subject supervision, and tools for assessing neurocognitive changes were inconsistent.

Conclusions

There is strong evidence in animal ABI models that physical exercise facilitates neurocognitive recovery. Physical exercise interventions are safe in the subacute and rehabilitative phases of recovery for humans with ABI. In light of strong evidence of positive effects in animal studies, more controlled, prospective human interventions are warranted to better explore the neurocognitive effects of physical exercise on persons with ABI.
Manitoba: From provincial-based planning to localised Aboriginal governance
Authors: Wellstead Adam M , Rayner Jeremy
Published: June 2009

Policy change in Manitoba’s integrated land use management can be characterized by three distinct phases: 1993–2000, 2000–2004, and 2004–2008. The first period was dominated by an ambitious province-wide planning initiative that intended to implement broad sustainable development principles. These ideals were carried over into an area specific initiative known as the East Side of Lake Winnipeg Planning Initiative. In the final phase, there was a significant shift in the number and type of actors involved as well as the planning goals which shifted from implementation of sustainable development to enhancing Aboriginal governance capacity. This case study presents the policy change in Manitoba’s land management policy regime as a process of “policy layering” followed by “policy conversion.”
Effects ofArtemisia annuaL. (Asteracea) on the digestive enzymatic profiles and the cellular immune reactions of the Sunn pest,Eurygaster integriceps(Heteroptera: Scutellaridae), againstBeauveria bassiana
Authors: Zibaee A. , Bandani A.R.
Published: June 2009

Plant extracts are currently studied more and more because of the possibility of their usage in plant protection. Many of the natural plant compounds which are used in the control of pests are known to affect the digestion and immune functions of insects. In this study, effects ofArtemisia annuaextract on the digestive enzymatic profiles and the cellular immune reactions ofEurygaster integricepswere investigated to reach a better understanding of its role in the control of this pest as the most destructive one in the production of wheat in the Near and Middle East, eastern and southern Europe and North Africa. Feeding and injection methods were used to study the plant extract effects on digestive enzymes and cellular immunity, respectively. When adultE. integricepsfed on food and water containing plant extracts, activity of the digestive enzymes, including α-amylase, α- and β-glucosidases, protease and lipase, in addition to cellular immune reactions (total and differentiate hemocyte numbers, phagocytosis, nodule formation and phenoloxidase activity) againstBeauveria bassianawere affected and significantly decreased in comparison with controls, in that the clear dose-response relationships were established with respect to enzyme activities and immune reactions.A. annuaextract had a significant effect on kinetic parameters (VmaxandKm) of digestive enzymes and phenoloxidase activity so that the presence of the plant extract decreased the value ofVmaxand increasedKm, causing the reduction of enzyme affinity to the substrate, overall velocity of the reaction and finally interfering with the rate of breakdown of the enzyme-substrate complex. The understanding of fungal-induced immune responses and identification of factors regarding fungal virulence could be important in accelerating host death in a biological control scenario. Hence, the combination of botanical pesticides and microbes to control insect pest populations would be a safe and possibly rapid method to decrease their damage and environmental risk due to the use of chemical pesticides.
Influence of the emulsion droplet type on the rheological characteristics and microstructure of rennet gels from reconstituted milk
Authors: Gaygadzhiev Zafir , Hill Arthur , Corredig Milena
Published: June 2009

Rheological and microstructural properties of rennet-induced milk gels containing different fat globules were studied. Recombined milks were prepared by mixing reconstituted low-heat skim milk powder and anhydrous milk fat emulsified with reconstituted skim milk powder (SMP), sodium caseinate (NaCas), whey protein isolate (WPI) or Tween 20. Final elastic modulus of the rennet gels containing WPI- or Tween 20-stabilized fat globules showed significantly lower values compared with those prepared with SMP-emulsified fat globules. SMP-stabilized fat globules interacted with the continuous casein network reinforcing the gel structure. Confocal micrographs supported the rheological data revealing that gels containing SMP-stabilized fat globules formed a tighter network relative to other treatments. Microscopy images also showed some degree of droplet flocculation in the case of gels containing WPI- or Tween 20-stabilized fat globules, and this was most likely the cause of the increase of elastic modulus of these systems. Contrary to reports for acid-induced casein gels, NaCas-stabilized fat globules hindered the formation of rennet gels. These results illustrate that rennet gel structure is affected by droplet-droplet and droplet-casein interactions, which in turn are determined by the composition of the oil-water interface as well as the ionic equilibrium in the reconstituted milk gels.
A place for lateral in the feature geometry
Authors: Blevins Juliette
Published: June 2009

Phonological models of feature geometry suggest that the internal structure of segments is highly articulated. Distinctive features are organized hierarchically within the segment, and this hierarchical organization is relatively stable across and within languages. Much recent work has been devoted to determining the precise location of place of articulation features within the hierarchy. In this study, the distinctive feature [lateral] is the focus of investigation. Though [lateral] is often considered a manner feature, it is usually associated with coronal articulations. By examining the behaviour of coronal and velar laterals in phonological rules and constraints, evidence emerges that [lateral] is a terminal feature of the coronal node within the feature tree.
Derived constituent order in unbounded dependency constructions
Authors: Blevins James P.
Published: June 2009

This paper proposes that unbounded dependency constructions in English instantiate a surface subject-predicate structure in which the predicate is typically discontinuous. Evidence is presented supporting this discontinuous analysis over the operatorvariable structure conventionally assigned to unbounded dependencies. A model of phrase structure that sanctions discontinuous representations is outlined, along with a feature-based strategy for generating the proposed structures within an extended phrase structure system. Extraction islands and other locality constraints are subsequently characterized with reference to the feature propagation paths that induce discontinuity.
The contrast between interrogatives and questions
Authors: Huddleston Rodney
Published: June 2009

This paper explores the relation between interrogative, a category of grammatical form, and question, a category of meaning. Interrogative contrasts with declarative, imperative, etc., in the system of clause type (not sentence type); a question defines a set of answers. Two kinds of interrogative are distinguished, closed and open -though in some languages they may be distinct primary classes. Three kinds of question are distinguished according to the way the set of answers is defined: polar, alternative and variable questions; another dimension distinguishes information from direction questions. Mismatches between interrogatives and questions are found in the areas of coordination, parentheticals, echoes and questions signalled only prosodically. Mismatches between interrogative phrases and questioned elements are also investigated.
On indefinite descriptions
Authors: Rouchota Villy
Published: June 2009

This paper explores some aspects of the semantics and pragmatics of indefinite descriptions. It is often noted that indefinite descriptions may be interpreted in several ways: attributively, referentially, specifically, generically, etc. I argue that indefinite descriptions are not semantically ambiguous and that their various interpretations are better explained on the basis of general communicative principles. Assuming an unambiguous semantics, I develop a pragmatic account of the attributive, the specific and the referential interpretation, placed within the framework of relevance theory. I compare this analysis to a Gricean one and argue that the relevance theoretic account is more adequate. Finally, I show that the proposed analysis can be extended to account for the generic and the predicative interpretations as well.
Developments in the Swedish Early Retirement Scheme: The Drive Against High Welfare Expenditure and Ill-health
Authors: Carlsson Bo
Published: June 2009

The social insurance system has been an important element in the Swedish welfare model. However, in Sweden as in other Western countries there is an ongoing discussion about the rationality of the post-1940 welfare state. A social right or benefit constantly debated is the right to an early retirement pension. The value of such an early retirement pension has been questioned from economical as well as social or human points of view. The purpose of this article is to shed light on different processes behind the increasing number of early retirement pensioners and on the ongoing rehabilitation programmes in Sweden. A question that will arise: Is there a possible margin of gains from the interventions of the rehabilitation programme?
‘Parenting Skills’: Views of Community Health and Social Service Providers about the Needs of their ‘Clients’
Authors: Edwards Jeanette
Published: June 2009

The concept of ‘parenting skills’ features large in professional, political and popular discourse on the role and responsibility of parents. This article explores what constitutes skills of parenting from the perspective of community health and social service providers, working with families deemed to be ‘in need’. It shows how the concept is drawn on to describe both the needs of women with whom they work and their own role in fulfilling some of those needs. It argues that ‘parenting skills’ are not only gendered, insofar as it is women as mothers who are more likely to be perceived as needing them, but that a lack of them might also be associated with marital status, age and place of residence. In looking at ‘parenting skills’ from the perspective of service providers in the context of their working lives, it is clear however that service providers, predominantly women, formulate a role for themselves in the face of poverty and poor housing which they feel powerless to change.
Social Policy Digest
Authors: Campling Jo
Published: June 2009

The Commission on Social Justice set up by the late John Smith presented its proposals for the reform of Britain's tax and benefit system in October (87—22/3—1.8). They included taxing child benefit for higher earners and abolishing married couples′ allowance, a minimum pension guarantee and a national minimum wage. A Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) paper on the relationship between private insurance and the state social security system concluded that state benefits must remain the major source of provision for benefits, and suggested that there is only limited scope for further development of private sector alternatives. Meanwhile the 1994 edition of social security statistics showed that 521,320 families received family credit at January 1994, an increase of 119,900 over 1993. In April 1994 there were approximately 540,000 recipients.
Law's Healing of Children's Hearings: The Paradox Moves North
Authors: King Michael
Published: June 2009

This article surveys, from the perspective of systems theory as expounded by Niklas Luhmann, recent developments in the evolution of the role played by Scottish Children's Panels in the protection of children. It traces the way that in England the problem of the paradoxical nature of the social worker's task in protecting children was resolved by reconstructing the problem in legal terms. The same process, it argues, has now occurred in Scottish social work practice, but there ambiguity in the nature of the Children's Panels makes it difficult for social workers to obtain clear legal authority for their actions. Since the Clyde Report on the Orkney case, therefore, considerable controversy has arisen over the future of Children's Panels and, in particular, over their role in emergency situations. This controversy is seen as part of a wider evolutionary process involving law and child welfare, which cannot be adequately explained in terms of changes in political ideology.
The Other T. H. Marshall
Authors: Rees A. M.
Published: June 2009

This article argues that the writings of T. H. Marshall contain not one, but two, theories of citizenship, and there is a problem about whether they are compatible with one another. The second, less familiar, theory is mainly developed in Marshall's later works, especiallyThe Right to Welfare, but many of its essential features can be found inCitizenship and Social Class, although not in the sections of that work which are most frequently quoted. Several areas where Marshall's shifting views contributed to this second version of citizenship are discussed: citizenship as national membership and as a body of obligations, the reality of social rights, discretion versus enforceable entitlements, citizenship as a bearer of its own inequalities, the relationship with the capitalist class system. Increasingly, Marshall came to restrict citizenship to the political sphere, thereby endorsing a conventional liberal view: but then he was, it is argued, in many respects a pretty conventional liberal. The article concludes by noting the paradox that much of the current interest in Marshall's thought is because a ‘strong’ view of citizenship is attributed to him which he may never have held, and which he certainly relinquished towards the end of his writing career.
Expenditure Planning in the Personal Social Services: Unit Costs in the 1980s
Authors: Bebbington A. C. , Kelly A.
Published: June 2009

During the 1980s, unit cost inflation more than swallowed up all the increased spending on local authority social services, leaving a 10 per cent net reduction in service volumes. This increase can be only partly explained by increased labour prices and increased client needs resulting from the implementation of community care. Explanations in terms of quality and efficiency changes are explored in relation to individual services, and there appears to be a prima facie case that efficiency reduced during the 1980s.

Variation between local authorities in the costs of apparently similar services rose during the 1980s. An analysis of these variations shows that those authorities which experienced the greatest rise in unit costs also had the greatest reduction in service volumes. Unit cost containment has been greatest where there was grant reduction and a declining local tax base, while volume declined most where there was rate-capping. The rising variation in unit costs has been responsible for the widening gap between standard spending assessments and what local authorities have wanted to spend on personal social services. If these increased variations reflect widening efficiency standards, then reversing this trend will require that social services department managements have both the motivation and capacity to implement unit cost monitoring and control.
Housing Inheritance and Inequality: A Response to Watt
Authors: Hamnett Chris
Published: June 2009

Paul Watt's (1993) response to my article ‘A nation of inheritors?’ (Hamnett, 1991) raises some interesting and worthwhile questions about the class basis of housing inheritance which I would like to address and clarify. To recapitulate briefly, my article attempted to assess the validity of Saunders's (1986, 1990) arguments regarding the importance of home ownership and housing inheritance in the creation of a new consumption cleavage independent of social class. Using data from a survey of beneficiaries I argued that although housing inheritance is distributed across the class spectrum, the incidence of inheritance is far greater amongst home owners, higher social classes and those living in southern Britain (where home ownership is longer established) than it is among council tenants, the lower social classes and those living in the north. I argued that there is nothing inherent in a person's social class, housing tenure or location which makes inheritance more likely. On the contrary, the determinants of housing inheritance are influenced by the social characteristics of dying home owners. Because the structure of inheritance reflects the structure of property ownership a generation ago, current differences in the incidence of inheritance will reflect the class and tenure characteristics of the dying population and their relationship to the class and tenure characteristics of beneficiaries. The incidence of housing inheritance is higher among home owners and those in higher social classes because their parents are more likely to have been home owners. I went on to argue that because home ownership has become much more widely spread across the class spectrum over the last 40 years (Hamnett, 1984), the incidence of housing inheritance in 30–40 years' time is likely to be more widely spread than it is today. Thus, I concluded that whilst Saunders' arguments regarding the distribution of house inheritance are not empirically supported today, they may be more so in 30–40 years' time. I argued, however, that although housing inheritance was likely to be more widespread in future than it is today, the children of tenants were unlikely to inherit. Given the growing social residualisation of the council sector I argued that ‘the less skilled, the low income and the unemployed’ were likely to be excluded from inheritance.
The Implications of the Term ‘Elder Abuse’ for Problem Definition and Response in Health and Social Welfare
Authors: Hugman Richard
Published: June 2009

‘Elder abuse’ has recently emerged as an important phenomenon, with implications for social policy and professional practices. In this article it is argued that responses must be based on a more thorough definition. of ‘elder abuse’. A distinction between acts which can be regarded as ‘abuse’ and those which could be seen as ‘criminal’ is seen to be necessary for the development of policy and practice, recognising that these two ideas are grounded in competing discourses. The concept of an ‘obligation of care’ between perpetrator and elderly person is proposed as the basis for establishing a boundary between the two discourses and their policy implications. It is argued that this concept will enable a more focused definition of ‘elder abuse’ to be developed which will provide a more effective foundation for policies and subsequent social responses.
Cigarette Smoking: A Light on Gender and Class Inequality in Britain?
Authors: Graham Hilary
Published: June 2009

The decline in smoking prevalence in Britain has been associated with a narrowing of gender differences and a widening of class differences in cigarette smoking. The shrinking population of smokers is increasingly drawn from those occupying subordinate positions in the gender and class hierarchies. The article reviews the evidence linking social inequality and women's smoking, drawing on conventional measures of gender and socio-economic position and on alternative measures which tap more directly into the processes that sustain gender and class inequality. The article deepens its analysis of the links between social inequality and smoking behaviour through a survey of women caring for young children in manual households. The survey uncovered pronounced intra-group differences in the smoking behaviour of women occupying broadly similar gender and socio-economic positions. These differences were associated, in clear and systematic ways, with differences in the mothers' social and material circumstances. High rates of prevalence and consumption and low rates of cessation were related to heavier caring responsibilities and to greater material disadvantage.
Attachment theory underestimates the child
Authors: Harris Judith Rich
Published: June 2009

The problem with elaborations of attachment theory is attachment theory itself. How would a mind that works the way the theory posits have increased its owner's fitness in hunter-gatherer times? The child's mind is more capacious and discerning than attachment theorists give it credit for. Early-appearing, long-lasting personality characteristics, often mistaken for the lingering effects of early experiences, are more likely due to genetic influences on personality.
Interhemispheric Transfer in Schizophrenia: recent developments
Authors: Green W. P.
Published: June 2009

Several experiments were reported in order to show that there are good reasons for suspecting disturbed interhemispheric relationships in some schizophrenics. It was argued that interhemispheric transfer deficits might underlie some of the classical symptoms of schizophrenia and might be related to auditory hallucinations, in particular. The latter suggestion was supported by experimental and clinical observations. Finally, the possibility of introducing neuropsychological methods into behavioural treatment was discussed.
Variations on Masturbatory Conditioning
Authors: Laws D. R. , O'Neil J. A.
Published: June 2009

Four pedophiles, one sado-masochist, and one rapist were treated by varying different aspects of a single paradigm of masturbatory conditioning. In the basic paradigm, subjects masturbate to ejaculation while speaking their fantasies aloud. Weekly blocks of five trials with a deviant theme are alternated with weekly blocks where the theme is nondeviant. Evaluation sessions to assess levels of response to deviant and nondeviant slide stimuli are typically conducted later in each treatment day. The usual result is an increase in nondeviant arousal with a concomitant decrease in deviant arousal.

Variations in the masturbation procedure included shortening the treatment week from 5 days to 2 or 3, alternating themes on a daily rather than weekly basis, and omitting the use of deviant imagery. In the evaluation sessions variations included the preparation of individually tailored audiotaped fantasies precisely expressive of the subjects' interests, the use of videotaped simulations of rape, assault, and consenting intercourse, and obtaining numerous measures of the subjects' cognitive changes during the treatment process. All six subjects showed the effect of decreasing their deviant sexual arousal and increasing their nondeviant arousal. The results were discussed from various viewpoints employing a cognitive-behavioral model.
The Effectiveness of Programmed Instruction with Operant Training in the Language Rehabilitation of Severely Aphasic Patients
Authors: Lincoln Nadina B. , Pickersgill Mary J.
Published: June 2009

The effectiveness of programmed instruction with operant training (P.I.O.T.) in the language rehabilitation of severe aphasics was evaluated by comparison with an attention-placebo control treatment (A.P.C.) in which non-verbal tasks were administered. Patients were divided into two groups and received first either 4 weeks of P.I.O.T. or of the A.P.C. condition. Both groups then received 4 weeks of the alternative treatment. Both groups also received some speech therapy throughout. Only two out of 24 assessments showed differences, both indicating that the A.P.C. with non-verbal practice improved abilities more than P.I.O.T. Over the total 8-week period, significant improvements in abilities occurred on more than one-half of the measures. It is concluded that rehabilitation therapy by means of programmed instruction with operant training failed to produce improvement in the course of recovery of language or related aspects of communication in severely aphasic patients.
Health technology assessment in Catalonia: An overview of past and future perspectives
Authors: de Solà-Morales Oriol , Granados Alicia
Published: June 2009

Objectives:The current and past situation of health technology assessment (HTA) in Catalonia is presented in this study.

Methods:The approach used here is a historical review of facts and landmarks.

Results:Spain has undergone radical change in many aspects, but the changes in healthcare provision have been major indeed. Catalonia has had the ability to benefit from these changes and has been able to build upon professionals' experience and expertise to development a consistent HTA network and continuous evaluation paradigm. The early involvement of the Catalan Agency for Health Technology Assessment (CAHTA) in several relevant HTA international initiatives and the relationship of CAHTA and Research with other HTA agencies in Spain is also stressed.

Conclusions:HTA is currently of common use in Catalonia for decision making at different levels. Now emphasis has to be put on the coming challenges that the HTA community will have to face in the coming years: uncontrolled demand, capacity scarcity, a rapidly evolving knowledge frontier, and insufficient input from the economic sphere into evaluations.
Ice sheet mass balance and sea level
Authors: Allison I. , Alley R.B. , Fricker H.A. , Thomas R.H. , Warner R.C.
Published: June 2009

Determining the mass balance of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets (GIS and AIS) has long been a major challenge for polar science. But until recent advances in measurement technology, the uncertainty in ice sheet mass balance estimates was greater than any net contribution to sea level change. The Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (AR4) was able, for the first time, to conclude that, taken together, the GIS and AIS have probably been contributing to sea level rise over the period 1993–2003 at an average rate estimated at 0.4 mm yr-1. Since the cut-off date for work included in AR4, a number of further studies of the mass balance of GIS and AIS have been made using satellite altimetry, satellite gravity measurements and estimates of mass influx and discharge using a variety of techniques. Overall, these studies reinforce the conclusion that the ice sheets are contributing to present sea level rise, and suggest that the rate of loss from GIS has recently increased. The largest unknown in the projections of sea level rise over the next century is the potential for rapid dynamic collapse of ice sheets.
Contraction of negatives as evidence of variance in register-specific interactive rules
Authors: Yaeger-Dror Malcah
Published: June 2009

This study investigates the contraction of negatives in a carefully chosen corpus of discourse and writing, to permit comparison of the relative influences of various linguistic and social parameters on contraction. Evidence is presented that negative contraction is conditioned by interactional and other register variables. The point is made that the pragmatic as well as morphological interpretation of negatives entails that negative contraction and auxiliary contraction should be distinguished from each other. Although a Cognitive Prominence Principle predicts noncontraction when the negative conveys semantically focal information, a Social Agreement Principle predicts contraction. This is because it would be face-threatening (and, therefore, in conversation analysis terms “dispreferred”) to focus on disagreement, which is most often the semantic information conveyed by negatives. This hypothesis is examined using corpora which differ along several dimensions. The most important of these (for this study) appear to be the interactional versus informational register dimensions (Finegan, 1994). Data from instructional (workshop presentations), confrontational (political debates), and casual conversational material are contrasted with comparable reading style materials. The following general results are predicted. The Cognitive Prominence Principle will take over in informational contexts when disagreement is acceptable or neutralized. The Social Agreement Principle will take over in more interactional contexts where disagreement is not acceptable. The results are of interest to the student of focus, the sociolinguist concerned with dialect, register, and style variation, and even the speech technician.
Optimality Theory and variable word-final deletion in Faetar
Authors: Nagy Naomi , Reynolds Bill
Published: June 2009

We examine a pattern of end-of-word deletion in Faetar, a Francoprovençal dialect spoken in southern Italy, considering synchronic variants like [brókələ] ˜ [brókəl] ˜ [brókə] ˜ [brok] ‘fork’. We use the word “deletion” as a synchronic description of the facts; speakers do not always phonetically produce everything in the input form, assuming that the input form is the longest form ever produced. Optimality Theory accounts for this type of variation by positing different rankings of the constraint hierarchy, each of which produces a different optimal output. The predication of alternate constraint rankings within a single dialect, however, poses problems for Optimality Theory as it has been formulated, necessitating numerous grammars for each speaker. We propose floating constraints (Reynolds, 1994), whereby some particular constraint within a single grammar may be represented as falling anywhere within a designated range in the ranking hierarchy. In a previous study (Reynolds & Nagy, 1994) we showed that this model accounts for the distribution of types of output forms produced. Here, we analyze a corpus of 624 tokens from 40 speakers and show that the pattern of distribution of tokens is accounted for as well: the number of rankings that produce each output form is closely correlated to the number of output forms that occur in the data set.
Canadian raising in a midwestern U.S. city
Authors: Dailey-O'Cain Jennifer
Published: June 2009

This article provides evidence from a small city in the northern United States for Canadian raising, the raising of /au/ and /ai/ to [AU] and [Ai]. As hypothesized, /ai/-raising is much more frequent and regular, but /au/-raising also occurs. Speech style is statistically significant only for /ai/-raising. The raising of /ai/ is not significant for gender or age, but /au/-raising seems to be led by young women. This evidence suggests that, while /ai/-raising has been fully entrenched in this phonological system for some time, /au/-raising is a new and separate change in progress. The /au/-diphthong is also often fronted when raised, a finding similar to several Canadian studies (Chambers, 1981a; Hung, Davison, & Chambers, 1993). This suggests that the Canadian varieties studied may not, as previously suggested (Chambers, 1981b), be conforming to the U.S. norm, but instead that the two varieties are converging.
Mechanism of sound change in Optimality Theory
Authors: Zubritskaya Katya
Published: June 2009

In this article I examine the ongoing loss of palatalization assimilation in Modern Standard Russian within the framework of Optimality Theory (OT) (McCarthy & Prince, 1993a; Prince & Smolensky, 1993) and show that this theory offers new, meaningful explanations for the role of markedness and naturalness in the mechanism of a sound change. I also argue that OT provides new possibilities for relating quantitative patterns to the formal principles of grammatical organization. In particular, in OT, suggested cross-linguistically invariant relations between phonological factors predict a general pattern of influence that these factors have on the quantitative outcome of a change. I suggest that a change operates as a gradual weakening or strengthening of whole subhierarchies of constraints with universally fixed rankings (constraint families, which implement markedness scales in OT). In an examination of variable data, I argue that the major differences in quantitative patterns mirror the fixed constraint ranking within such constraint families and constraint violation/nonviolation in OT grammar. I also discuss the problem of modeling variable data within OT, which, like other formal phonological theories, permits no output variation. I examine a grammar competition model explored in OT literature and argue instead for constraint competition with constraint weight in production.
Solving the actuation problem: Merger and immigration in eastern Pennsylvania
Authors: Herold Ruth
Published: June 2009

Data from fieldwork and a telephone survey is used to demonstrate that the merger of the vowels in words such ascotandcaught, traditionally considered a defining characteristic of the speech of western Pennsylvania, is well established in the former anthracite mining towns of eastern Pennsylvania. Demographic and linguistic data indicate that the merger arose independently in the anthracite towns as a result of massive in-migration of speakers of Polish and other non-Germanic languages around the turn of the century. Having identified the proximate cause of the merger makes it possible to predict the presence or absence of the merger in various towns using demographic data alone.