bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcription Factors NF-κB and C/EBPδ and IL-1-Induced Expression of Surfactant Protein A in Lung Explants during the Perinatal Period
Authors: Seppänen Outi , Glumoff Virpi , Paananen Reija , Rounioja Samuli , Hallman Mikko
Published: December 2004

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) increases the expression of surfactant protein A (SP-A) in rabbit, lamb and human fetal lung. The upregulation disappears towards term. Among the transcription factors, IL-1 activates nuclear factor ĸB (NF-ĸB) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein δ (C/EBPδ). NF-ĸB presumably has a role in IL-1-induced upregulation of SP-A. Also, C/EBPδ may regulate SP-A expression. The aim was to study the role of these transcription factors in the induced effect of IL-1 on SP-A expression. Explants from fetal and neonatal rabbit lung were cultured in vitro followed by studies using immunohistochemistry, electrophoretic mobility shift assay and Northern analysis. We found gestation-dependent changes in IL-1-induced immunoreactivities of NF-ĸB and C/EBPδ in the nuclei of alveolar cells. This increase in nuclear transcription factors correlated with IL-1-induced SP-A expression levels. As studied in the explants from fetal and newborn lung, the SP-A mRNA expression additionally associated with C/EBPδ mRNA and with the binding of nuclear extracts from the lung explants to the C/EBP consensus probe. On the basis of the present and previous studies, we propose that NF-ĸB and C/EBPδ have potential mediator roles in IL-1-induced upregulation of SP-A in immature lung.
Hydrolysis of Casein Accelerates Gastrointestinal Transit via Reduction of Opioid Receptor Agonists Released from Casein in Rats
Authors: Mihatsch W.A. , Franz A.R. , Kuhnt B. , Högel J. , Pohlandt F.
Published: December 2004

Background: Protein hydrolysate accelerates gastrointestinal transit (GIT) and feeding advancement in preterm infants compared to native protein. In rat pups, opioid receptor agonists released from casein during digestion such as β-casomorphins slow down GIT. We hypothesized that hydrolysis of casein reduces the opioid activity released during digestion thereby accelerating GIT compared to native casein. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether casein hydrolysate accelerates GIT compared to native casein and whether pretreatment with naloxone, an opioid receptor blocker, abolishes this difference in rat pups. Methods: In a randomized controlled trial following a 2 × 2 factorial design, 216 female Wistar rat pups were fed with pellets based on hydrolyzed or native casein. After pretreatment with naloxone or normal saline, carmine red was administered by oro-gastric gavage as a tracer for GIT velocity measurement. Four hours later the animals were sacrificed, their intestine was removed and the length of the colon from the cecocolonic junction to the anus was measured. GIT was recorded as percentage of the total colonic length (percentage of colonic transit) passed by carmine red. Data were given as mean ± SD. Results: GIT was significantly higher with hydrolyzed casein compared to native casein formula (77.4 ± 17 and 51.2 ± 20%), but there was no difference after naloxone pretreatment (77.1 ± 16 and 76.5 ± 17%). Discussion: The present data suggest that hydrolysis of casein accelerates GIT via reduction of opioid activity released during digestion. Further studies are required to investigate to which extent these rat pub data apply to preterm infants.
Neonatal Handling and Gender Modulate Brain Monoamines and Plasma Corticosterone Levels following Repeated Stressors in Adulthood
Authors: Panagiotaropoulos Theofanis , Pondiki Stavroula , Papaioannou Agapi , Alikaridis Filaretos , Stamatakis Antonis , Gerozissis Kyriaki , Stylianopoulou Fotini
Published: December 2004

Neonatal handling affects the response to repeated stress in a sexually dimorphic manner. In order to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these gender-dependent effects, we investigated the consequences of neonatal androgenization and handling on adult stress reactivity by determining: (a) immobility time during repeated forced swimming, (b) plasma corticosterone levels, and (c) brain serotonin and dopamine levels and turnover after either repeated forced swimming, or repeated forced swimming followed by repeated restraint stress. In neonatally androgenized females, immobility time was lower in the handled than in the non-handled rats, a pattern resembling that of the males, suggesting that the sexually dimorphic effect of handling on immobility time can be attributed to the organizational effects of testosterone. No differences were found between androgenized females and females injected neonatally with vehicle, indicating that the gender differences in circulating corticosterone are not due to the organizational effects of testosterone. The stress of a neonatal injection interacted with neonatal handling resulting in lower plasma corticosterone and hypothalamic dopamine and serotonin levels in the neonatally injected handled animals following repeated forced swimming. The serotonergic system appears to be sensitive to both the organizational actions of testosterone and the effects of handling, since handled androgenized females had higher serotonin levels and decreased turnover following repeated forced swimming stress, compared to those injected neonatally with vehicle. Handling resulted in increased hypothalamic and striatal serotonin levels in both males and females following repeated forced swimming. Our results reveal that handling has gender-dependent effects on adult hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and brain monoaminergic system reactivity to stress and that these effects can be attributed to both the organizational and activational effects of gonadal hormones.
A New Combined Test with Flowcytometric Basophil Activation and Determination of Sulfidoleukotrienes Is Useful for in vitro Diagnosis of Hypersensitivity to Aspirin and other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Authors: Sanz M.L. , Gamboa P. , de Weck A.L.
Published: December 2004

Background: We assessed whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provoke blood basophil activation in vitro in aspirin- and NSAID-hypersensitive patients, as detected by a flowcytometric technique using the CD63 marker – flowcytometric basophil activation test (FAST) assay – in addition to the sulfidoleukotriene (sLT) release – the cellular allergen stimulation test (CAST). Methods: Sixty aspirin- and/or NSAID-hypersensitive patients were studied. Thirty control patients without history and negative provocation challenge were also included. The percentage of activated basophils after in vitro stimulation with NSAIDs at 3 different concentrations was evaluated by an anti-CD63 phycoerythrin conjugate (FAST assay) and the amount of sLTs released in the cell supernatant by ELISA (CAST assay). Results: For aspirin, the FAST indicated a sensitivity of 41.7%, a specificity of 100%, a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 99.4%; for paracetamol 11.7 and 100%, for metamizol 15 and 100%, for diclofenac 43.3 and 93.3%, and for naproxen 54.8 and 74.1%. Many patients showed positive tests to more than 1 NSAID. When considering the first 4 NSAIDs, the global sensitivity increased to 66.7%, while the specificity remained at 93.3%. The addition of the CAST results still increased the sensitivity up to 73.3%, but with a decrease of the specificity to 71.4%. Conclusions: The FAST shows a high percentage of positive reactions, which may reach 60–70% when 4 NSAIDs are tested and even 88% when the test is performed within 1 month of the last clinical drug exposure and reaction. The test has a high specificity above 90%. The addition of sLT determinations yields additional information in a few isolated cases. It is suggested that this test, when properly used, may help avoid some cumbersome and dangerous provocation challenges.
Reduction of Oxidative Stress Marker in Lung Fluid of Preterm Infants after Administration of Intra-Tracheal Liposomal Glutathione
Authors: Cooke Richard W.I. , Drury Josephine A.
Published: December 2004

Background: Low levels of glutathione are associated with subsequent chronic lung disease in preterm infants. Incorporation of glutathione into liposomes offers a method of increasing levels with a prolonged half-life compared with direct inhalation. Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the clinical feasibility of administering a single dose of liposomal glutathione and its effectiveness at raising glutathione at 12 and 24 h after treatment. Methods: Fourteen ventilated preterm infants from the Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Liverpool Women’s Hospital received 1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg liposomal glutathione intra-tracheally and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected prior to treatment, 12 and 24 h after dosing for glutathione and malondialdehyde estimation. Results: Mean glutathione was initially 12.2 µmol/l, increasing to 52.8 µmol/l at 12 h (p = 0.006). Mean malondialdehyde was initially 265.6 nmol/l decreasing to 11.2 nmol/l at 12 h (p = 0.018). Conclusions: Intra-tracheal liposomal glutathione instillation offers a feasible method of raising pulmonary glutathione in preterm infants and shows biochemical antioxidant effects.
In vitro Antibacterial Activities of New Fluoroquinolones against Clinical Isolates of Haemophilus influenzae with Ciprofloxacin-Resistance-Associated Alterations in GyrA and ParC
Authors: Yoshizumi Satoshi , Takahashi Yoshie , Watanabe Yoshinari , Okezaki Eiichi , Ishii Yoshikazu , Tateda Kazuhiro
Published: December 2004

Background: The in vitro antimicrobial activities of new fluoroquinolones were tested against quinolone-resistant Haemophilus influenzae of clinical isolates. Methods: The nucleotide sequences of the gyrA and parC genes from three ciprofloxacin-resistant strains of Haemophilus influenzae (MIC, 1.56–6.25 µg/ml) were determined. The gyrase was purified from the clinical isolates, and the inhibitory activities of quinolones against the enzyme were tested. Results: These strains possessed at least one amino acid substitution in each of the GyrA (asparagine at residue 88 (Asp-88) to Tyr, Ser-84 to Leu or Ser-84 to Leu and Asp-88 to Asn) and ParC (Glu-88 to Lys). The antibacterial activity of olamufloxacin against the resistant strains was most potent compared with other quinolones, and the inhibitory activities correlated with quinolone resistance of these strains. Conclusions: These results warrant the clinical effects of new types of fluoroquinolones, such as olamufloxacin, against respiratory tract and otolaryngology infections caused by ciprofloxacin-resistant H. influenzae.
Effects of Surgical Menopause and Estrogen Replacement Therapy on Serum Paraoxonase Activity and Plasma Malondialdehyde Concentration
Authors: Kumru Selahattin , Aydin Suleyman , Aras Azer , Gursu M.F. , Gulcu Funda
Published: December 2004

Background: We have investigated the effects of surgical menopause and estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) on serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in surgically postmenopausal women. Methods: Thirty-six healthy perimenopausal women who underwent total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy for uterine myoma were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were taken from the subjects 1 day before surgery, 1 day before starting ERT (30 days after the operation) and on the 30th day after the start of therapy. Results: After surgical menopause, there were significant increases in plasma MDA levels (p < 0.05) and a decrease in serum PON1 activity (p < 0.05). ERT significantly increased the PON1 activity (p < 0.05) and reduced MDA levels (p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and PON1 activity (r = 0.7, p < 0.001, n = 36) and a negative correlation between serum PON1 activity and plasma MDA levels (r = –0.63, p < 0.006, n = 36). Conclusions: The present study suggests that postmenopausal women tend to have high levels of plasma MDA and reduced PON1 activity, and ERT reverses these effects. The effect of ERT on lipid peroxidation seems to be associated with serum PON1 activity.
Subcutaneous Implantation of Pure Crystalline Estradiol Pellets for Conception Control
Authors: Oettinger Moshe , Oettinger Moshe , Barak Shlomi , Barak Shlomi , Oettinger-Barak Orit , Oettinger-Barak Orit , Ophir Ella , Ophir Ella
Published: December 2004

Objectives: Assessment of the contraceptive effectiveness of pure estradiol pellets implanted annually under the skin, thus avoiding the ‘first passage phenomenon’ through the liver, using a modification of Emperaire and Greenblatt’s method. Study Design: 228 women wishing birth control for 1 year or more were included. 5 pellets of estradiol (25 mg each) were implanted initially. At each subsequent annual treatment, 4 pellets were implanted. Withdrawal bleeding was induced monthly with oral norethindrone acetate 5 mg taken for 7 days. Our experience encompassed 8,136 cycles, or 678 women years. The study obtained approval of the local Ethical Committee. Results: Annual continuation rates were 51 per 100 women in the second year, 65 in the third, 72 in the fourth and 84 ± 10.1 annually over the next 6 years. Through 12 years of our study, 2 accidental pregnancies occurred. The annual net cumulative pregnancy rates were 0.44 and 0.48 per 100 women at 1 and 2 years, and reduced to 0.29 at the end of 10 years. Return of fecundity after discontinuing treatment was 53% after 12 months, 81% after 24 months and 89% after 36 months. The mean estradiol levels were 1,413 ± 161 pmol/l one week following the pellet installation. The mean serum estradiol level of the 43 women who were assayed arbitrarily or a year following last insertion was 1,207 pmol/l (range 462–2,904 pmol/l); 22% had serum estradiol levels <1,000 pmol/l and 6.3% (3 women) had levels >1,750 pmol/l. A total of 28 endometrial biopsies were obtained –19 were proliferative, 6 showed slight simple hyperplasia, and three, benign cystic glandular hyperplasia. Conclusion: Subcutaneous implantation of pure estradiol pellets offers excellent birth control, has minimal untoward effects, is simple to insert and can serve as a possible alternative for conception control. It could be considered for 3 indications: for women who have completed family planning; for women in older age group (above 35 years) who are approaching the climacteric; and for women at any age, who need prolonged periods of contraception.
Interactive Effect of Obesity Indexes on Cognition
Authors: Jeong Seul-Ki , Nam Hae-Sung , Son Myong-Ho , Son Eui-Ju , Cho Ki-Hyun
Published: December 2004

This study aimed to investigate associations between obesity and poor cognitive performance using data from a community study of 467 individuals aged ≧65 years in South Korea. Cognitive function was ascertained using the Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE), and obesity using anthropometric measures including waist circumference and body mass index (BMI). Poor cognitive performance was present in 37% of the sample. General obesity (BMI ≧25) and poor cognition were strongly associated in the presence of abdominal obesity. Poor cognition was negatively associated with overweight (BMI 23–25) with normal waist circumference. Interaction terms with abdominal obesity for BMI increase were significant (p = 0.007). Obesity was associated with poor cognition, and obesity indexes must be carefully considered to reveal this relationship.
Increased Alpha 7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Protein Levels in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Chu L.W. , Ma E.S.K. , Lam K.K.Y. , Chan M.F. , Lee D.H.S.
Published: December 2004

We compared the intact α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) protein levels in the peripheral blood leukocytes in 15 Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and 13 normal elderly control subjects. Demographic data and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores were obtained. Western blot analysis for α7nAChR protein levels in peripheral blood leukocytes was performed. There were no significant differences in sex and age between the AD and control groups. The mean MMSE score of the AD subjects was significantly lower than that of the normal control subjects (15.4 ± 5.5 vs. 28.5 ± 1.9 respectively; p < 0.001). The median value of normalized α7nAChR protein levels (optical density, arbitrary unit) of the AD group was significantly higher than that of the normal control group (0.6923 vs. 0.4803 respectively; p = 0.045, Mann-Whitney U test). The normalized α7nAChR protein levels showed a significant inverse correlation with the MMSE scores (Spearman rho = –0.45; p = 0.016; n = 28). Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analyses showed that the area under curve was 0.72 (95% CI 0.52– 0.87). If the cut-off of the α7nAChR protein level was >0.312, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value would be 80, 39, 60 and 63%, respectively. These findings showed that the α7nAChR protein levels would be a potentially useful diagnostic marker for AD.
Estrogen-Metabolizing Gene COMT Polymorphism Synergistic APOE ε4 Allele Increases the Risk of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Wang P.N. , Liu H.C. , Liu T.Y. , Chu A. , Hong C.J. , Lin K.N. , Chi C.W.
Published: December 2004

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a polygenic multifactorial disorder. Several studies suggested that the neuroprotective effect of estrogen was based on an APOE-dependent mechanism. The goals of the current study were to determine if the genes involved in estrogen metabolism were linked to the risk of AD and find out if there was an interaction between estrogen-metabolizing gene polymorphisms and the APOE Ε4 allele in the risk of prevalent AD. We investigated 66 patients with AD and 86 age- and gender-matched normal subjects. The polymorphisms of APOE and estrogen-metabolizing genes CYP17, CYP1A1 and COMT were examined. No association was found between each estrogen-metabolizing gene polymorphism and AD. However, the COMT HH genotype and APOE Ε4 allele had a synergistic effect on the risk of AD. Taking subjects with Ε4–Ε4–/HH– as reference, the risk of developing AD in subjects with one Ε4 allele (Ε4+Ε4–/HH–) was 2.6 (95% confidence interval, CI, 0.7– 9.1); however, the risk in subjects with both HH and one Ε4 (Ε4+Ε4–/HH+) increased to 3.6 (95% CI 1.2–10.6). The subjects with homozygous Ε4 still had the highest risk in developing AD (odds ratio 6.6, 95% CI 0.6–69.6). The p value of the linear trend test for this regression model was 0.004. It is possible that a high metabolism of estrogen by COMT may have reduced the protective effect of estrogen in AD. Further studies to clarify this interaction may improve our understanding of the generic risks for AD.
The Development of Laparoscopic Surgery in Spain
Authors: Feliu Xavier , Targarona Eduardo María , García-Agustí Ana , Pey Albert , Carrillo Angel , Lacy Antonio María , Morales Salvador , Salvador José Luis , Torres Antonio , Veloso Enrique
Published: December 2004

Aim: To assess degree of development and level of acceptance of laparoscopic surgery in Spain. Method: A questionnaire was sent to all members of the Spanish Association of Surgeons in April 2003. It included 32 questions, 9 of which were general, and 23 referred to specific clinical situations, techniques, and standard practice. Results: Eight hundred and fifty-eight (33.1%) surgeons replied. Only 211 (25%) surgeons reported performing advanced laparoscopic procedures. Four hundred and twenty (49%) surgeons believed that the results obtained with laparoscopic surgery were better than those obtained with conventional surgery, and 325 (40%) surgeons believed that laparoscopy would become a superspecialty. Laparoscopic surgery was considered the method of choice in the treatment of gallbladder stones (99%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (94%), acute cholecystitis (81%), in selected cases of inguinal hernia repair, and in procedures to be performed in spleen and adrenals, benign colon disease, and obesity. Three hundred and ninety-eight (47%) surgeons considered laparoscopic surgery the preferred approach for colon cancer, 292 (34%) for appendicitis, and 155 (18%) for incisional hernia. Five hundred and five (59%) surgeons considered that the use of laparoscopic surgery had grown less than expected. Conclusions: The vast majority of surgeons advocated laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of gallbladder stones and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Although most hospitals had the appropriate technical facilities for performing advanced laparoscopic procedures, few surgeons actually did so.
Walking the Talk: Philosophy of Conservation On The Isle of Rum
Authors: Brady Emily , Rawles Kate , Holland Alan
Published: December 2004

This paper describes our experience of teaching environmental ethics as part of a Philosophy of Conservation field trip to Rum, off the West coast of Scotland. The field trip was formalised into an M. A. Module in 1999. After outlining the educational aims of the module, and how these are implemented in this setting, we indicate some of the key issues in ethics and aesthetics that emerge as we explore two specific conservation sites. We close with a reflection on the value of experiential education in this area, and the importance of combining experiential, emotional and intellectual engagement in any exploration of normative issues.
Implementation of an Urban Canopy Parameterization in a Mesoscale Meteorological Model
Authors: Otte Tanya L. , Lacser Avraham , Dupont Sylvain , Ching Jason K. S.
Published: December 2004

An urban canopy parameterization (UCP) is implemented into the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesoscale Model (MM5) to improve meteorological fields in the urban boundary layer for finescale (∼1-km horizontal grid spacing) simulations. The UCP uses the drag-force approach for dynamics and a simple treatment of the urban thermodynamics to account for the effects of the urban environment. The UCP is evaluated using a real-data application for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The simulations show that the UCP produces profiles of wind speed, friction velocity, turbulent kinetic energy, and potential temperature that are more consistent with the observations taken in urban areas and data from idealized wind tunnel studies of urban areas than do simulations that use the roughness approach. In addition, comparisons with meteorological measurements show that the UCP simulations are superior to those that use the roughness approach. This improvement of the treatment of the urban areas in the meteorological model could have implications for simulating air chemistry processes at this scale.
Impact-Compression-Morphology Relationship in Polyolefin Foams
Authors: Bureau Martin N. , Champagne Michel F. , Gendron Richard
Published: December 2004

The relationship between the morphology and the mechanical properties of polyethylene (PE) foams has been studied. Experiments have been made on closed cell low density foams at low testing speed as well as in impact conditions. A careful characterization of the cell size distribution and anisotropy was performed and related to the foams mechanical response. The results indicate that the mechanical response of the foams is anisotropic and can be expressed as a function of the foam morphology, using a unique morphological parameter taking into account the cell size in the appropriate direction and foam density. Previously developed for polystyrene foams, the use of this parameter is thus successfully extended to PE-based foams.
A methodology for analysing recipe books
Authors: Turmo Isabel González
Published: December 2004

The methodology discussed in this article was developed for the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund)-funded project “Anthropology of Food: Cooking and Food Habits on Both Sides of the Straits of Gibraltar. Andalusia and Morocco, 19th-20th Centuries”. It aims to facilitate a comparative analysis of recipe books and a large quantity of recipes, taking into consideration all their various components. Two computer applications were developed for this purpose: “Índice” (Index) and “Recetas” (Recipes). The first of these permits a comparative analysis of the ingredients, condiments and main culinary techniques of 5000 recipes, whilst the second was used to undertake a more in-depth analysis of a series of recipes, grouped according to culinary typologies.
The Effect of Poly[methylene(polyphenyl isocyanate)] and Maleated Polypropylene Coupling Agents on New Zealand Radiata Pine Fiber–Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Pickering K. L. , Ji C.
Published: December 2004

The effects of poly[methylene (polyphenyl isocyanate)] (PMPPIC) and maleated polypropylene (MAPP) coupling agents, separately and combined, on the strength and Young’s modulus of New Zealand radiata pine-reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites were assessed. A modest improvement compared to the unreinforced matrix strength of 4% and much greater improvement of 123%, substantially greater than reported elsewhere in the literature, were obtained using PMPPIC and MAPP respectively. Young’s modulus improvements compared to the unreinforced matrix of 77 and 177% were obtained using PMPPIC and MAPP respectively. The MAPP coupling agents with the longest chain lengths and lower functionality gave the greatest benefit, supporting chain entanglement as the major mechanism for enhanced bonding with PP. Relatively high moulding temperatures and low injection pressures, bringing about enhancement of fiber orientation in the test direction, also appear to have contributed to such large improvements in composite properties in the current work. Combination of PMPPIC and MAPP coupling agents produced mixed results: benefits were obtained by combining PMPPIC and MAPP with the longest chain lengths which can be explained by PMPPIC bonding with hydroxyl groups not accessible to further coupling with MAPP once saturation is achieved.
Elastic–Plastic Stress Analysis in Aluminum Metal–Matrix Composite-laminated Plates ([0°/θ°]2) Under Transverse Uniformly Distributed Load
Authors: Arslan Nurettin , Kaman M. Onur , Duranay Mehmet
Published: December 2004

In this paper, an elastic–plastic stress analysis is carried out in unidirectional reinforced steel–aluminum composite-laminated plates under transverse loading and simply supported conditions. For the elastic–plastic stress analysis, the mathematical formulation is given for small deformations. Finite Element Method and first-order shear deformation theory are used. A finite element computer program is developed for stress analysis. The laminated plates of constant thickness are manufactured by stacking four layers bonded symmetrically or antisymmetrically. The residual stress components and yield points are calculated for each layer and compared with different reinforced layers. The location and the expansion of the plastic zones are obtained according to loading gradually increased from yield point as 0.0001 MPa at each load step. The load capacity of the laminated plate increases by means of the residual stresses.
Effect of Friction on Cut Resistance of Polymers
Authors: Vu Thi B. N. , Vu-Khanh T. , Lara J.
Published: December 2004

It is generally recognized that resistance to cutting consists of two aspects, one reflecting the intrinsic strength of the material, and the other a frictional contribution. In practice, cutting usually involves a normal force and a sliding movement. This work aims to analyze the effects of friction on cutting resistance of materials in the presence of a normal force and sliding movement of a sharp object. International Standard ISO 13997 is used as a reference to evaluate the cut resistance of some selected protective materials under practical conditions in service. The resistance to cutting of a material in the presence of both a normal force and sliding movement of a sharp object is strongly controlled by friction between the blade and the cut material. An increase in the friction coefficient can enhance or reduce the cut resistance, depending on the thickness, and the microstructure of the material to be cut. Thus the total energy required to propagate a cut strongly depends on the friction coefficient and consists of two components: The lost energy dissipated by the squeezing force exerted by the cut material, due to its elasticity, on the blade sides, and the essential cutting energy at the edge of the blade. These energies have opposite effects on the cutting resistance of materials. An increase in the energy dissipated in gripping frictional force increases the cut resistance, whereas an increase in friction at the blade’s edge reduces the energy required to cut the material.
Sheet Forming Studies using Low-cost Composites
Authors: Ávila Antonio F. , Jabbur Fabrício G.
Published: December 2004

This paper focuses on formability study of recycled polymeric matrix composites. Two thermoplastics are selected to create the composite, i.e. polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high density polyethylene (HDPE). The recycling process is thermo-mechanical, and no addition of co-polymers, anti-oxidants or additives is used. Two sets of composites were studied. For the first set a PET/HDPE composite with ratio 60/40 was prepared, while the second one was a PET/HDPE/fiber glass composite. The PET/HDPE resulting matrix has the same aspect ratio as the first one and the final configuration matrix/fiber has a 70/30 relationship. The forming limit diagram (FLD) was obtained by following the methodology proposed by Bhattacharyya and his colleagues. The obtained results are very encouraging and open a new market for the recycling process.
A Novel Polyamide 12 Polymerization System and its Use for a LCM-process to Produce CFRP
Authors: Rosso Patrick , Friedrich Klaus , Wollny Andreas , Mülhaupt Rolf
Published: December 2004

The aim of this study was to investigate the scope of the recently developed polymerization molding system for polyamide 12 (PA12), especially with respect to the formation of carbon fiber-reinforced PA12 composites. Initial screening of PA12 composite formation was performed by means of an internal mixer in order to identify the suitable type of surface-treated carbon fiber (CF). The content of residual lauryllactam (LL) monomer reflected the influence of the CF-treatment on the polymerization molding involving anionic in situ polymerization of LL. The cryogenic fracture surfaces were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to evaluate the adhesion quality between the components. Finally, a bench-scale polymerization molding process was established successfully for the fabrication of multi-axial laminates. Macromechanical tests and dynamic mechanical thermo-analysis (DMTA) indicated that the performance of the new polymerization molding process is very similar to that of state-of-the-art PA12/CF composites.
Applying a Cultural Lens to the Concept of Burnout
Authors: Raiger Janet
Published: December 2004

Burnout is a unique type of stress syndrome that is pervasively affecting the nursing profession. The literature on burnout is reviewed, and a conceptual framework using Maslach’s Burnout Inventory is provided. The culture of organizations is examined with regard to its contribution to the antecedents and consequences of burnout. Leininger’s cultural care theory and its relevance to the concept of burnout and culture is discussed. Implications for the amelioration of burnout from the perspective of culture are discussed to stimulate future changes in nursing administration, practice, and education. A culture of trust, support, open communication, and respect can foster healthy work environments and protect against burnout.
Linking Micro- to Macro-level Behavior in the Aggressor-Defender-Stalker Game
Authors: Anderson Carl
Published: December 2004

In many multiagent systems, small changes in individual-level rules may lead to very large changes at the group-level. This phenomenon is striking in the “aggressor-defender game,” a simple participative game in which each participant randomly selects two others from the group (A and B). In the aggressor game, everyone tries to position themselves so that A is always between themselves and B. In the defender game everyone tries to position themselves between A and B. Despite these exceedingly simple rules and the seemingly small difference between them, the two games exhibit very different dynamics. The aggressor game produces a highly dynamic group that rapidly expands over time whereas the defender game quickly collapses to a tight knot. I analyze these games and provide some insight as to how these two group level behaviors arise, thereby linking the micro- and macro-levels. I also introduce and analyze a new, related and simpler game, the stalker game, in which each participant selects and pursues a single participant, and which also produces a collapsing group. It is suggested that such a geometrical analysis may be applicable for other multiagent systems such as insect societies and collective robotics.
Representing Honey Bee Behavior for Recognition Using Human Trainable Models
Authors: Feldman Adam , Balch Tucker
Published: December 2004

Identifying and recording subject movements is a critical, but time-consuming step in animal behavior research. The task is especially onerous in studies involving social insects because of the number of animals that must be observed simultaneously. To address this, we present a system that can automatically analyze animal movements, and label them, by creating a behavioral model from examples provided by a human expert. Further, in conjunction with identifying movements, our system also recognizes the behaviors made up of these movements. Thus, with only a small training set of hand labeled data, the system automatically completes the entire behavioral modeling and labeling process. For our experiments, activity in an observation hive is recorded on video, that video is converted into location information for each animal by a vision-based tracker, and then numerical features such as velocity and heading change are extracted. The features are used in turn to label the sequence of movements for each observed animal, according to the model. Our approach uses a combination of kernel regression classification and hidden Markov model (HMM) techniques. The system was evaluated on several hundred honey bee trajectories extracted from a 15 minute video of activity in an observation hive.
Costs of Environmental Fluctuations and Benefits of Dynamic Decentralized Foraging Decisions in Honey Bees
Authors: Schmickl Thomas , Crailsheim Karl
Published: December 2004

Honey bees show the impressive ability to choose collectively (through swarm intelligence) between nectar sources of different quality by selecting the energetically optimal one. We here present results from a multi-agent simulation of a cohort of foraging bees. The model, which is built on proximate individual mechanisms, leads to interesting results on the (global) colony level. The simulation allows us to investigate collective foraging decisions in a variety of experimental setups that can be reproduced experimentally with real bees. Because our model allows us to project the daily net honey gain of the simulated honey bee colony, it enables us to explore the economic results of foraging decisions, even in a fluctuating environment. We used the model to investigate the dynamics and efficiency of a bee colony’s decentralized decision system in terms of minimizing the potential cost of lost nectar income due to changes in food quality in a fluctuating environment.
Poetic Experience and the Good Life in the Writings of Michael Oakeshott
Authors: Worthington Glenn
Published: December 2004

The article argues that attending to Oakeshott’s characterization of poetic experience shows his moral philosophy to possess dimensions that can be otherwise overlooked. The first of these dimensions is the authenticity or success with which a self realizes or creates itself as a moral being. The second area of Oakeshott’s moral philosophy that is brought to light by attending to his account of poetic experience is his account of society as a tapestry of moral images.
How Oakeshott Became an Oakeshottean
Authors: Podoksik Efraim
Published: December 2004

Two ideas lie at the heart of Oakeshott’s philosophy: the notion of the inherent plurality of modern experience and the notion of a modern state as a purposeless civil association. These ideas signify Oakeshott’s rejection of the intellectual tradition of British Idealism by which he was influenced in his twenties. The breaking point was the publication of Experience and its Modes, although, with regard to social philosophy, the process of the abandonment of holistic Idealism lasted longer and was completed only with the publication of On Human Conduct. The main difference between Oakeshott and other British Idealists lies in his radical rejection of methodological holism. It is suggested that this rejection might be an outcome of influences of continental philosophical traditions, and that Oakeshott’s philosophy is especially indebted to the ideas of the fragmentation of experience prevalent in Central European Idealism, and particularly in neo-Kantianism.
Improving Q estimates from seismic reflection data using well‐log‐based localized spectral correction
Authors: Hackert Chris L. , Parra Jorge O.
Published: December 2004

Most methods for deriving Q from surface‐seismic data depend on the spectral content of the reflection. The spectrum of the reflected wave may be affected by the presence of thin beds in the formation, which makes Q estimates less reliable. We incorporate a method for correcting the reflected spectrum to remove local thin‐bed effects into the Q‐versus‐offset (QVO) method for determining attenuation from seismic‐reflection data. By dividing the observed spectrum by the local spectrum of the known reflectivity sequence from a nearby well log, we obtain a spectrum more closely resembling that which would be produced by a single primary reflector. This operation, equivalent to deconvolution in the time domain, is demonstrated to be successful using synthetic data. As a test case, we also apply the correction method to QVO with a real seismic line over a south Florida site containing many thin sandstone and carbonate beds. When corrected spectra are used, there is significantly less variance in the estimated Q values, and fewer unphysical negative Q values are obtained. Based on this method, it appears that sediments at the Florida site have a Q near 33 that is roughly constant from 170‐ to 600‐m depth over the length of the line.
Minireview: Transcriptional Regulation in Development of Bone
Authors: Kobayashi Tatsuya , Kronenberg Henry
Published: December 2004

Regulation of gene expression by transcription factors is one of the major mechanisms for controlling cellular functions. Recent advances in genetic manipulation of model animals has allowed the study of the roles of various genes and their products in physiological settings and has demonstrated the importance of specific transcription factors in bone development. Three lineages of bone cells, chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts, develop and differentiate according to their distinct developmental programs. These cells go through multiple differentiation stages, which are often regulated by specific transcription factors. In this minireview, we will discuss selected transcription factors that have been demonstrated to critically affect bone cell development. Further study of these molecules will lead to deeper understanding in mechanisms that govern development of bone.
Rapid Second-Tier Molecular Genetic Analysis for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Attributable to Steroid 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency
Authors: Kösel Siegfried , Burggraf Siegfried , Fingerhut Ralph , Dörr Helmut G , Roscher Adelbert A , Olgemöller Bernhard
Published: December 2004

Background: Neonatal screening for steroid 21-hydroxylase (CYP21) deficiency is performed to identify congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). The immunologic assay for 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) has a high rate of false positives. We assessed the potential for increasing the specificity for CAH by use of a second step involving analysis of the CYP21 gene.

Methods: Between January 1999 and December 2003, a total of 810 000 newborns were screened. Of these, 7920 had to be retested because their 17-OHP values were above the cutoff of the assay. Sixty-one had positive 17-OHP values in their recall samples and were diagnosed as having CAH. We used a rapid assay for common mutations of the CYP21 gene to analyze these 61 samples. In a prospective study, 198 consecutive samples that had increased 17-OHP and 100 samples that had normal 17-OHP concentrations were genotyped.

Results: Fifty-nine of 61 cases diagnosed as having CAH were confirmed genetically as CYP21 deficiencies. One patient had a 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency, and one patient carried no CYP21 mutations. The 198 increased 17-OHP results were designated as false positives after immunologic testing of recall samples. None of these samples exhibited the genetic pattern consistent with CYP21 deficiency.

Conclusions: If samples with increased 17-OHP values were screened genetically, the number of retests would decrease by ∼90%, but the overall sensitivity of CAH screening would remain the same. Adding a second-tier genetic step would require a modest increase in costs, but is counterbalanced by fewer recalls, less clinical follow-up, and a reduction in unnecessary worry for families.
A Marketing Perspective on Mergers and Acquisitions: How Marketing Integration Affects Postmerger Performance
Authors: Homburg Christian , Bucerius Matthias
Published: December 2004

Previous research on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) has neglected marketing issues by and large. In this article, the authors examine the effects of postmerger integration in marketing (extent and speed of marketing integration) on M&A performance, as mediated by integration outcomes (magnitude of cost savings and market-related performance). Results from a survey of 232 horizontal M&A show that market-related performance after the merger or acquisition has a much stronger impact on financial performance than does cost savings. In addition, the authors find that the extent of integration is beneficial in terms of cost savings but detrimental in terms of market-related performance. Finally, they identify variables that moderate the relationships being considered.
Neuroendocrine regulation of salivary IgA synthesis and secretion: implications for oral health
Authors: Teeuw Wijnand , Bosch Jos A. , Veerman Enno C.I. , Nieuw Amerongen Arie V.
Published: December 2004

Secretory immunoglobulin A (S-IgA) represents the main adaptive immune mechanism in the oral cavity. The regulation of secretion and synthesis of S-IgA is not only dependent on prior antigenic stimulation, but is also under strong neuroendocrine control. Thus, alterations in neuroendocrine functioning (such as induced by stress, exercise, pregnancy, menstrual cycle, and pharmacological interventions) may affect salivary IgA levels. This review deals with the neuroendocrine regulation of synthesis and secretion of salivary IgA and its potential role in the maintenance of oral health.
Eagle Down is Our Law. Witsuwit'en Law, Feasts, and Land Claims
Authors: Salmon Enrique
Published: December 2004

Eagle Down is Our Law: Witsuwit'en Law, Feasts, and Land Claims. Antonia Mills. Vancouver: University of British Columbia Press, 1994. 208 pp. $24.95. Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1995. 256 pp. $24.95.
The Mid‐life Transition to Lesbian: Expanding Consciousness of Women
Authors: Wolfe Paula F.
Published: December 2004

This paper reports a study focusing on the transition of women who changed their sexual orientation during the mid‐life period. It is my premise that these midlife women, by changing their sexual identity to lesbian, also changed cultural systems from heterosexual to lesbian. One finding of the study is the development of an expanding consciousness of and about women by the women who later made a sexual preference transition.
Headhunters: Matchmaking in the Labor Market/ In Transit: The Transport Workers Union in New York City, 1933–1966/ The Human Cost of Food: Farmworkers' Lives, Labor, and Advocacy/ The Trouble with Community: Anthropological Reflections on Movement, Identity and Collectivity
Authors: Lane Carrie M. , Gamst Frederick C. , Letkemann Paul G. , Benson Judith
Published: December 2004

Headhunters: Matchmaking in the Labor Market. William Finlay and James E. Coverdill. Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 2002.

In Transit: The Transport Workers Union in New York City, 1933–1966. Joshua B. Freeman. Philadelphia: Temple University Press, 2001 [1989].

The Human Cost of Food: Farmworkers' Lives, Labor, and Advocacy. Charles D. Thompson, Jr. and Melinda F. Wiggins, eds. Austin: University of Texas Press, 2002.

The Trouble with Community: Anthropological Reflections on Movement, Identity and Collectivity. Vered Amit and Nigel Rapport. London: Pluto Press, 2002.
Invocation of the Theatrical Frame in Bamana Drama Performance
Authors: Brink James T.
Published: December 2004

This article argues that an anthropology of art can only be valid as it integrates the art form and the socio‐cultural context, using data from Bamana (peoples from the region of Bamako in Mali) drama performances. It is shown how cultural knowledge and social activity is situationally used to contextualize aesthetic experience.
A New Explanation of Sexual Repression in Ireland
Authors: Stahl Ellen J.
Published: December 2004

One theory of sexual repression in Ireland describes how it operated to increase the prosperity of the small family farm and the social mobility of the family. A second theory asserts that Irish Catholic dualistic asceticism and Church power are responsible for sexual repression. In this article, general systems theory and cultural ecology are used to demonstrate that the aspects of Irish culture affecting sex were generated by colonial and neocolonial relations.
Modernizaiton as a Problem: An Anthropological View
Authors: Nash Manning
Published: December 2004

Modernization, as a concept, has been widely used in social science. It has experienced definition and redefinition in its use as a tool to help explain social and cultural change. This article tentatively examines the concept as used in anthropology and suggests a “strategy for study” about an on‐going, historical process.
Class, Ethnicity, and the Family in Contemporary Society
Authors: Rody Gladis Kaufman , Bilge Barbara J.
Published: December 2004

This paper attempts to demonstrate that observed variations in the family structure of the contemporary Capitalist World are determined primarily by the political and economic conditions peculiar to Capitalism, and that ethnicity has a subsidiary influence upon family structure. The paper also intends to explore the functions of the family within the Capitalist System and to examine the resulting positions and roles of women within the family types encountered.
A Competent Speaker Who Can't Speak: The Social Life of Aphasia
Authors: GOODWIN CHARLES
Published: December 2004

This article examines how a man able to speak only three words because of a severe stroke is nonetheless able to act as a competent speaker, indeed position himself as the teller of a complex story, by linking his limited talk and embodied action to the talk and action of others. This suggests a view of what it means to be a speaker that does not take as its point of departure the mental life and symbolic competence of the individual, but instead focuses on the practices required to participate in the public processes of sign exchange that constitute talk as a primordial site for human social life.1