bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Case of the Missing Spymaster
Authors: Johnson Loch K.
Published: January 2010

The security intelligence establishment of the United States in the modern era came about in response to international threats: the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 and the rising status as the Soviet Union as a superpower driven by an ideology in conflict with American capitalism and democracy. What follows is an examination of these origins, along with a more contemporary look at the state of U.S. intelligence, which again changed dramatically (at least on the surface) in light of further international jolts: the terrorist attacks of 2001 and the fear of Iraqi unconventional weaponry in 2002-2003. From the early to the most recent efforts to improve U.S. security intelligence, reformers have tried to overcome the pronounced centrifugal forces that have plagued the integration and coherent management of the nations secret agencies. This article explores why these reforms have consistently failed.
`Keep Your Government Hands Off My Medicare:' A Prescription that Progressives Should Fill
Authors: Balogh Brian H
Published: January 2010

The state has consistently been displaced by individual initiative and market mechanisms in personal and collective memory and, more often than not, scholarly interpretations as well. Progressives, however, would do well to embrace rather than deride this pattern. More importantly, they should design legislation that capitalizes upon the long-standing preference of Americans for government that is hidden in plain sight. This article explores that history. It identifies the ways in which Americans learned to govern less visibly during the nineteenth century and the ways in which these patterns were reinforced during the twentieth. In the process, it also addresses the prevailing assumption that Americans did not govern at all for much of their history. Indeed, it is that mythical "stateless" past that those who have already secured their state-subsidized benefits deployed in order to deny prospective public support to others.
The Politics Measurement Makes: Performance Management in the Obama Era
Authors: Moynihan Donald
Published: January 2010

President Obama assumed leadership of the state in an era of governance by performance management. While sometimes dismissed as a technocratic tool, performance management has profound implications for how the state is governed, impacting the distribution of administrative power, the capacity to exert control and accountability, and the means by which citizens experience their government. This article examines the transition of performance systems between the presidencies of George W. Bush and Barack Obama, a transition marked by a mixture of continuity and change. Both presidents identified performance as the central organizing theme for their management initiatives. The enthusiastic adoption of performance techniques by any government results in a variety of responses, ranging through passive, political, perverse, and purposeful. Understanding why and when such responses occur, and their implications for politics and governance, should be a central aspect of the study of the permanent government.
The Effect of Governance on Credit Decisions and Perceptions of Reporting Reliability
Authors: Holder-Webb Lori , Sharma Divesh S.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT: We conduct an experiment to examine how lending decisions are affected by lender perceptions of reporting and governance quality. We perform a set of experiments to determine whether lenders are sensitive to the quality of governance as measured by board composition along multiple dimensions, whether their perceptions of reporting reliability are a function of the strength of the board, and whether their lending decisions are then affected by their perceptions of reporting reliability. Study participants are a group of 62 professional lenders from Singapore, with at least three years of professional credit analysis and lending experience. We find that lenders are primarily sensitive to financial condition and the perceived reliability of financial reporting. While we also find that lenders are sensitive to board strength, further tests suggest lenders appear particularly sensitive to board strength only for relatively high-performing firms. We also find that the perceived reliability of the financial reports does not appear to be affected by board strength or by the applicant’s financial condition. The paper discusses implications for policy making, practice, and research.
The Effects of Incentives on Information Exchange and Decision Quality in Groups
Authors: Kelly Khim
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT: This study uses an experiment to examine the effects of different compensation contracts (flat wage, group incentive, and noncompetitive individual incentive) on decision quality when information is distributed among different individuals. The results indicate that information exchange and decision quality are better under the group incentive than the individual incentive, even when both incentives provide an economic motivation for information exchange. Information exchange and decision quality are also better under the flat wage than the individual incentive, despite the stronger economic motivation for information exchange under the individual incentive. Analyses indicate that the effect of compensation contracts on decision quality is partially mediated through information exchange between group members. The results are consistent with higher group membership saliency under the group incentive and the flat wage than the individual incentive, and group membership saliency promoting information exchange between group members. The results also suggest that in a group decision-making context, differences in decision quality across compensation contracts may be better explained by psychological factors rather than economic factors.
When Do Opportunity Costs Count? The Impact of Vagueness, Project Completion Stage, and Management Accounting Experience
Authors: Victoravich Lisa Marie
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT: Management accountants have recently migrated toward a business partner role, and as a result they often assist management with the decision-making process. Thus, it is imperative that they excel at identification of relevant information such as opportunity costs. This study experimentally tests the prediction that management accounting experience mitigates the tendency to ignore opportunity costs with respect to two factors: opportunity cost vagueness and project completion stage. This study also investigates whether attending to opportunity costs has an impact on project continuance decisions. Results indicate that management accounting experience mitigates the effect of vague opportunity costs and project completion stage. It was also found that attention to opportunity costs acts as mediator and this in turn reduces the tendency to continue an existing project. This suggests that attending to opportunity costs influences decision-making and that it is likely to have an economic consequence.
Correlates of Insulin Injection Omission
Authors: Peyrot Mark , Rubin Richard R. , Kruger Davida F. , Travis Luther B.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess factors associated with patient frequency of intentionally skipping insulin injections.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data were obtained through an Internet survey of 502 U.S. adults self-identified as taking insulin by injection to treat type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Multiple regression analysis assessed independent associations of various demographic, disease, and injection-specific factors with insulin omission.

RESULTS

Intentional insulin omission was reported by more than half of respondents; regular omission was reported by 20%. Significant independent risk factors for insulin omission were younger age, lower income and higher education, type 2 diabetes, not following a healthy diet, taking more daily injections, interference of injections with daily activities, and injection pain and embarrassment. Risk factors differed between type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients, with diet nonadherence more prominent in type 1 diabetes and age, education, income, pain, and embarrassment more prominent in type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas most patients did not report regular intentional omission of insulin injections, a substantial number did. Our findings suggest that it is important to identify patients who intentionally omit insulin and be aware of the potential risk factors identified here. For patients who report injection-related problems (interference with daily activities, injection pain, and embarrassment), providers should consider recommending strategies and tools for addressing these problems to increase adherence to prescribed insulin regimens. This could improve clinical outcomes.
Effect of Periodontal Treatment on Glycemic Control of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Teeuw Wijnand J. , Gerdes Victor E.A. , Loos Bruno G.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

There is growing evidence that periodontitis may affect general health. This study was assigned to explore the robustness of observations that periodontal therapy leads to the improvement of glycemic control in diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A literature search (until March 2009) was carried out using two databases (MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library) with language restriction to English. Selection of publications was based on 1) original investigations, 2) controlled periodontal intervention studies where the diabetic control group received no periodontal treatment, and 3) study duration of ≥3 months.

RESULTS

Screening of the initial 639 identified studies and reference checking resulted in five suitable articles. A total of 371 patients were included in this analysis with periodontitis as predictor and the actual absolute change in A1C (ΔA1C) as the outcome. The duration of follow-up was 3–9 months. All studies described a research population of type 2 diabetic patients in whom glycemic control improved after periodontal therapy compared with the control group (range ΔA1C: Δ−1.17 up to Δ−0.05%). The studies in a meta-analysis demonstrated a weighted mean difference of ΔA1C before and after therapy of −0.40% (95% CI −0.77 to −0.04%, P = 0.03) favoring periodontal intervention in type 2 diabetic patients. Nevertheless, this improvement in %A1C must be interpreted with care due to limited robustness as evidenced by heterogeneity among studies (59.5%, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggests that periodontal treatment leads to an improvement of glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients for at least 3 months.
Rethink Organization to iMprove Education and Outcomes (ROMEO)
Authors: Trento Marina , Gamba Silvia , Gentile Luigi , Grassi Giorgio , Miselli Valerio , Morone Gabriel , Passera Pietro , Tonutti Laura , Tomalino Marco , Bondonio Piervincenzo , Cavallo Franco , Porta Massimo ,   for the ROMEO Investigators
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

A trial was performed to establish whether our group care model for lifestyle intervention in type 2 diabetes can be exported to other clinics.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was a 4-year, two-armed, multicenter controlled trial in 13 hospital-based diabetes clinics in Italy (current controlled trials no. ISRCTN19509463). A total of 815 non–insulin-treated patients aged <80 years with ≥1 year known diabetes duration were randomized to either group or individual care.

RESULTS

After 4 years, patients in group care had lower A1C, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, BMI, and serum creatinine and higher HDL cholesterol (P < 0.001, for all) than control subjects receiving individual care, despite similar pharmacological prescriptions. Health behaviors, quality of life, and knowledge of diabetes had become better in group care patients than in control subjects (P < 0.001, for all).

CONCLUSIONS

The favorable clinical, cognitive, and psychological outcomes of group care can be reproduced in different clinical settings.
Assessing disordered speech and voice in Parkinson's disease: a telerehabilitation application
Authors: Constantinescu Gabriella , Theodoros Deborah , Russell Trevor , Ward Elizabeth , Wilson Stephen , Wootton Richard
Published: January 2010

Background: Patients with Parkinson's disease face numerous access barriers to speech pathology services for appropriate assessment and treatment. Telerehabilitation is a possible solution to this problem, whereby rehabilitation services may be delivered to the patient at a distance, via telecommunication and information technologies. A number of studies have demonstrated the capacity of telerehabilitation to provide reliable and valid assessments of speech, voice and language. However, no studies have specifically focused on assessing patients with Parkinson's disease.

Aims: To investigate the validity and reliability of a telerehabilitation application for assessing the speech and voice disorder associated with Parkinson's disease.

Methods & Procedures: Sixty‐one participants with Parkinson's disease and hypokinetic dysarthria were simultaneously assessed in an online and face‐to‐face environment by two speech–language pathologists. The assessment protocol included perceptual measures of voice and oromotor function, articulatory precision, speech intelligibility, and acoustic measures of vocal sound pressure level, phonation time and pitch range. Online assessments were conducted via a personal computer‐based videoconferencing system with store‐and‐forward capabilities, operating on a 128 kbit/s Internet connection. The level of agreement between the online and face‐to‐face ratings was determined using several different analyses, depending on the parameter. These included per cent close agreement, quadratic weighted Kappa, and the Bland and Altman limits of agreement.

Outcomes & Results: Per cent close agreement between the two environments was within a predetermined clinical criterion of 80% agreement for all voice and oromotor parameters, articulatory precision and speech intelligibility in conversation. Levels of agreement between the environments, based on quadratic weighted Kappa, ranged from poor to good for vocal parameters and from fair to very good for oromotor parameters. Bland and Altman limits of agreement analyses revealed comparability between online and face‐to‐face environments for vocal sound pressure level, phonation time, pitch range, sentence intelligibility and communication efficiency in reading. Intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability scores for all tasks were comparable between the online and face‐to‐face environments.

Conclusions & Implications: For the majority of parameters, comparable levels of agreement were achieved between the two environments. Online assessment of disordered speech and voice in Parkinson's disease appears to be valid and reliable. The telerehabilitation application described in this study provides evidence for the delivery of online assessment for the dysarthric speech disorder associated with Parkinson's disease.
New Report on the Symbiotic Relation of Ochotona roylei (Lagomorpha: Ochotonidae) and Scaly Breasted Wren Babbler (Pnoepyge albiventer) at Ganesh Himalaya Area of Central Nepal
Authors: Khanal Bhaiya
Published: January 2010

The symbiotic relationship of bird and pika is still a least understood phenomenon in biological science. This study at 3300 m near Somdang of Ganesh Himal area of central Nepal provided a new and interesting information on the behavior of Royle’s Pika (Ochotona roylei) which shared its haypile with a bird called Scaly Breasted Wren Babbler (Pnoepyge albiventer). Among the inspected 11 haypiles one haypile was observed sheltering both bird and pika. Keywords: Symbiotic, behavior, haypiles, pika, relationshipdoi:10.3126/on.v5i1.796Our Nature (2007)5:37-40
Mikania Weed: A Challenge for Conservationists
Authors: Siwakoti M
Published: January 2010

The varied bioclimatic conditions of Nepal favour the introduction of different invasive alien weeds. Mikania micrantha (L.) Kunth is one of the well established invasive alien weeds in the tropical part of eastern and central Nepal. The weed has been caused serious problems in the forests, grasslands, fallow lands, croplands and wetlands of the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and its buffer zone. It kills other plants by blocking sunlight and smothering them. The Reserve has initiated to manage the weed with local community in the buffer zone. The paper attempts to highlight the problem of Mikania in the Koshi Tappu area and the efforts of community to manage the weed. Keywords: Mikania micrantha, invasive alien weed, Koshi Tappu, Nepaldoi:10.3126/on.v5i1.801Our Nature (2007)5:70-74
Studies on Glycosaminoglycans Isolated from Bivalves Molluscs Tridacna maxima and Perna viridis
Authors: Arumugam M. , Balasubramanian T. , Warda M. , Linhardt R.J.
Published: January 2010

The glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in two marine invertebrate molluscs such as Tridacna maxima and Perna viridis were analyzed. Both the species was found to contain variable amounts of GAGs in the form of heparin biomolecules as identified by metachromatic activity and agarose gel electrophoresis analysis. Anticoagulant property of the biomolecules was assessed by anti factor Xa activity. Their molecular weight was estimated as 15000 and 9000 Daltons through GPC-HPLC. The 1HNMR analysis of heparin was used to predict binding sites of the heparin. Structural characterization studies clearly demonstrated that heparin is the major GAGs constituents in the test animals. Key words: Anticoagulant, Bivalves molluscs, Glycosaminoglycans, Heparin, InvertebratesDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2548Our Nature (2009) 7:10-17
Nest and Nidification Activities of the Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia in Westerghat Region of Shimoga, Karnataka
Authors: Dayananda G.Y. , Hosetti B.B.
Published: January 2010

Nest and nidification behaviour of the Spoonbill, Platlea leucorodia (Family- Threskiornithidae) was studied for three seasons during 2003-2005, at Gudavi Bird Sanctuary (GBS), Gudavi village, Sorab, Karnataka. The GBS harbored about 12 thousand birds of various species, of these, only 10-12 pairs of Spoonbills were breeds every year in this place. There were five Spoonbill nests, of which one was old egret nest and the four were newly built by Spoonbills. The clutch size was two to three in each nest (N = 5) and the shape of the egg was oval, white with small brown spots. The nesting activity usually starts in the month of late July and ends during December. The nesting activity, nest site selection, nesting habitat, nesting material, nest size, and nidification of Platalea leucorodia are discussed in this paper.Key words: Spoonbill, Platalea leucorodia, Nest and Nidification, Gudavi Bird Sanctuary,Shimoga.DOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2550Our Nature (2009) 7:26-31
Ethno-medicinal Plants Used by the People of Nawalparasi District, Central Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai S. , Chaudhary R.P. , Taylor R. SL
Published: January 2010

Despite new advances in modern medicine, the cultural use of plant in traditional medicine continues from ancient time to this day all over the world. The present research seeks to explore ethnomedicinal plants used by the local people of Nawalparasi district for primary healthcare. Local healers were interviewed regarding the detail uses of plants. When convenient a jungle or forest walk was also conducted, accompanying local healers for plant collection and detailed information gathering. A rich and unique diversity of 94 ethnomedicinal plant species belonging to 49 families under 86 genera were documented. In Nawalparasi, the expense of modern medical treatment combined with the poor economic status of indigenous people and a strong belief in the traditional medicine and traditional medical practitioners are the main reasons for the persistence of the traditional healing system. In addition, we have also documented a lack of continuation and flow of indigenous knowledge from the elders to the younger generation. Youth tend to be attracted by the wave of modernization and do not appreciate the importance of conservation of traditional knowledge. The use of plants in Nawalparasi is an old tradition and the exploration of such unique cultures should be completed thoroughly so that the oral traditions are not lost forever. Immediate conservation and management approaches of valuable medicinal plants with the involvement of local indigenous people of Nawalparasi district will encourage the sustainable conservation of both biological and cultural diversity.Key words: Traditional medicine; Local healers; Healthcare; Conservation; NawalparasiDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2555Our Nature (2009) 7:82-99
Dynamics of Zooplankton in Relation to Physico-chemical Factors
Authors: Dar I.A. , Rather H.A. , Dar M.A.
Published: January 2010

The present investigation deals with limno- biotic status of the Bhoj wetland from January to August, 2009. From the data it was apparent that correlations between the physico-chemical factors and dynamics of zooplankton could be seen. Systematic sampling was done and five sampling stations were selected. The main objective of this research was to evaluate the correlation of zooplankton diversity with the physico-chemical factors. The analysis of data showed a positive correlation of copepods with temperature, indicating that the copepods develop better in warm periods after a mild and dump winter. While rotifers showed a negative correlation with temperature and a positive correlation with pH- value.Key words: Zooplankton, Physico-chemical parameters, Rotifera, CorrelationDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2567Our Nature (2009) 7:168-176
Seasonal Distribution and Relative Abundance of Fish Fauna of a Small Hill-Stream Dangchaura (Takoli) Gad, along with River Alaknanda
Authors: Bisht B. , Badoni A.K. , Bahuguna S.N.
Published: January 2010

The present study was carried out to investigate seasonal distribution and relative abundance of fish fauna of a small hill stream Dangchaura (Takoli) Gad along with river Alaknanda. The differences in availability of fish-fauna were directly related to the nature of profile and slope of tributary; which affects the migration and breeding grounds of the fishes inhabited in the main river Alaknanda.Key words: Hill-stream fish fauna, Seasonal distribution, Dangchaura GadDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2569Our Nature (2009) 7:182-186
Addition to the List of Brackish Water Zygnemaceae of Sundarbans and its Adjoining Areas, India Genus Spirogyra Link
Authors: Naskar N.M. , Naskar K.R. , Talai S.
Published: January 2010

A total 12 species of Spirogyra Link was recorded from brackish water of Indian Sundarbans and its adjoining areas. Spirogyra dubia and Spirogyra ternata are found in the present study which was reported earlier. Spirogyra setiformis is uncommon to the present study which was also recorded earlier. This study represents 10 species of Spirogyra are being reported for the first time from this region.Key words: Algae, brackish water, Spirogyra, Sundarbans, IndiaDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2570Our Nature (2009) 7:187-192
Seasonal Variation in the Population of Indian Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa, Inhabiting the Arid Zone of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Soni K.C. , Sharma A.N. , Soni V.C.
Published: January 2010

The population of Black ibis (Pseudibis papillosa) inhabiting rural and urban area of Churu city, Rajasthan was seasonally determined by the direct count method. The counting of the Black ibis was made at roosting sites of Churu city (28°15′N and 74°55′E, 286 msl) and it’s out skirts area of 400 km2. Total 35 roosting sites were identified in the study area of which 19 were located in the urban area and 16 in the rural areas. It was found that number was relatively higher from June to August in 2003, 2004 and 2005. However, the number was highest from June 2004 to August 2004 and lowest from June 2006 to August 2006. The maximum number of adult was noticed in the rainy months of every year. A sharp decline in the juvenile population was observed from January 2004 to April 2004. Maximum 17 juvenile birds were observed in the months of May and June 2004 and October 2005 while the minimum 4 juveniles were observed in January 2005. An average 40.08±3.62 and 35.33±4.61 in 2003, 42.5±4.81 and 43.16±8.69 in 2004, 42.16±4.23 and 38.33±4.47 in 2005 and 36.25±3.81 and 34.91±4.52 in 2006 ibises were recorded in rural and urban areas, respectively. The maximum number of ibis i.e. 101 individuals, occurred in the month of June, 2004. But in general, the population remained more or less constant with seasonal variations involving dispersion during the monsoons and aggregation during the winters. The winter season adversely affects the population of Black ibis in the study area because of the non availability of preferential food, particularly insects.Key words: Seasonal variation, population, Black ibis, arid zone, Rajasthan, IndiaDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2571Our Nature (2009) 7:193-202
Effect of Different Concentrations of Sewage on the Haematological Parameters of Cirhinus mirghala of Jalla (Pan) of Patna City
Authors: Tiwary N.P. , Das S.K. , Prasad R.R. , Gupta S.K. , Kumar J. , Kumar R.
Published: January 2010

This paper deals with the effect of different concentrations of sewage on the haematological parameters of Cirrhinus mirghal of Jalla of Patna City.Key words: Sewage, Jalla (Pan), Patna City, Cirhinus mirghala, Haematological parametersDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2582Our Nature (2009) 7:240-243
Perspectives in the Prevention and Control of Non- Communicable Diseases (NCD)
Authors: Rahman Md Ridwanur , Yunus Emran Bin , Faiz MA
Published: January 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v27i2.4247 J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2009; 27: 59-62
Skin Tuberculosis: A Case Report
Authors: Ahmad Sami , Faruk Imtiaz , Hussain Md Margub , Faiz MA
Published: January 2010

A 17 year old boy presented with multiple non healing ulcers over the right lower limb and left upper limb for 13 years which were non responsive to varieties of treatment modalities used in his locality. There were also contracture deformities of the affected limbs. Clinically the diagnosis was quite confusing. but histopathology of specimen from skin lesion confirmed it as a case of skin tuberculosis. The patient was put on anti TB drugs and the ulcers responded well and started to heal rapidly. Some reconstructive surgery will be done for his contractures after completion of the anti TB drug regimen and proper healing of ulcers. DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v27i2.4255 J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2009; 27: 107-111
Effect of Artesunate Treatment on Some Brain Biomolecules and its Behavioral Implication
Authors: Ekong MB , Igri AO , Ekanem TB
Published: January 2010

Background: Artesunate (AS) is an artemisinin antimalarial drug used as a single drug or in combination with other antimalarials. Objective: This study was to find its effect on some brain biomolecules and behavioural activities in Wistar rats. Methods: Forty adult male Wistar rats weighing between 150- 180g were divided into four groups of A, B, C and D with 10 animals each. Group A served as the control that received tap water, while groups B, C and D served as the experimental groups that received 2.85mg/kg (therapeutic dose-TD) and 5.71mg/kg (high pharmacologic dose-HPD) of AS per day for 3 days, and 2.85mg/kg (long duration therapeutic dose -LDTD) of AS per day for six days respectively. Half of the dose was administered twelve hourly (twice a day), and twelve hours after the last treatments, behaviour test using the ‘open field maze' was carried out. Immediately after, the animals were sacrificed with chloroform anaesthesia and the whole brain removed and weighed. Whole brain homogenates were used to determine brain total protein (TP), triacylglycerol (TAG) and cholesterol (CH).Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer Multiple Comparative Test as applicable. Results: There were no difference (p<0.05) between the experimental groups and the control group in the anthropometric parameters and behavioural activities. In the brain biomolecules concentration, TP was lower in concentration in the HPD group, TAG was lower in concentration in the LDTD group, while the HPD and LDTD groups had lower CH concentration compared to the control. In all the parameters studied no difference was found between the TD group and the control. Conclusion: AS at recommended dose may not affect some behaviour and brain biomolecule concentration, unlike when taken in excess of dose and or time. Even at these doses/time there may have been no behavioural manifestation. Key words: Artesunate, Brain, Anthropometry, Behavior, Biomolecules, Rats DOI: 10.3329/jbsp.v4i2.4171 J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2009 Dec;4(2): 44-50
Dilemmas of Justice and Reconciliation: Rwandans and the Gacaca Courts
Authors: Megwalu Amaka , Loizides Neophytos
Published: January 2010

Following the 1994 genocide, several justice initiatives were implemented in Rwanda, including a tribunal established by the United Nations, Rwanda's national court system and Gacaca, a ‘traditional’ community-run conflict resolution mechanism adapted to prosecute genocide perpetrators. Since their inception in 2001, the Gacaca courts have been praised for their efficiency and for widening participation, but criticised for lack of due process, trained personnel and attention to atrocities committed by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). To evaluate these criticisms, we present preliminary findings from a survey of 227 Rwandans and analyse their attitudes towards Gacaca in relation to demographic characteristics such as education, residence and loss of relatives during the genocide.
Electrolytes and Interphasial Chemistry in Li Ion Devices
Authors: Xu Kang
Published: January 2010

Since its appearance in 1991, the Li ion battery has been the major power source driving the rapid digitalization of our daily life; however, much of the processes and mechanisms underpinning this newest battery chemistry remains poorly understood. As in any electrochemical device, the major challenge comes from the electrolyte/electrode interfaces, where the discontinuity in charge distribution and extreme disequality in electric forces induce diversified processes that eventually determine the kinetics of Li+ intercalation chemistry. This article will summarize the most recent efforts on the fundamental understanding of the interphases in Li ion devices. Emphasis will be placed on the formation chemistry of the so-called “SEI” on graphitic anode, the effect of solvation sheath structure of Li+ on the intercalation energy barrier, and the feasibility of tailoring a desired interphase. Biologically inspired approaches to an ideal interphase will also be briefly discussed.
The Toxicity of Depleted Uranium
Authors: Briner Wayne
Published: January 2010

Depleted uranium (DU) is an emerging environmental pollutant that is introduced into the environment primarily by military activity. While depleted uranium is less radioactive than natural uranium, it still retains all the chemical toxicity associated with the original element. In large doses the kidney is the target organ for the acute chemical toxicity of this metal, producing potentially lethal tubular necrosis. In contrast, chronic low dose exposure to depleted uranium may not produce a clear and defined set of symptoms. Chronic low-dose, or subacute, exposure to depleted uranium alters the appearance of milestones in developing organisms. Adult animals that were exposed to depleted uranium during development display persistent alterations in behavior, even after cessation of depleted uranium exposure. Adult animals exposed to depleted uranium demonstrate altered behaviors and a variety of alterations to brain chemistry. Despite its reduced level of radioactivity evidence continues to accumulate that depleted uranium, if ingested, may pose a radiologic hazard. The current state of knowledge concerning DU is discussed.
Phylogenetics Applied to Genotype/Phenotype Association and Selection Analyses with Sequence Data from Angptl4 in Humans
Authors: Maxwell Taylor J. , Bendall Matthew L. , Staples Jeffrey , Jarvis Todd , Crandall Keith A.
Published: January 2010

Genotype/phenotype association analyses (Treescan) with plasma lipid levels and functional site prediction methods (TreeSAAP and PolyPhen) were performed using sequence data for ANGPTL4 from 3,551 patients in the Dallas Heart Study. Biological assays of rare variants in phenotypic tails and results from a Treescan analysis were used as “known” variants to assess the site prediction abilities of PolyPhen and TreeSAAP. The E40K variant in European Americans and the R278Q variant in African Americans were significantly associated with multiple lipid phenotypes. Combining TreeSAAP and PolyPhen performed well to predict “known” functional variants while reducing noise from false positives.
6-Oxo-3-phenyl-5,6-dihydropyridazine-1(4H)-carbohydrazide
Authors: Mishra Ravinesh , Siddiqui Anees Ahmad , Kumar Rajiv , Kumar Suresh
Published: January 2010

We report herein the synthesis of 6-oxo-3-phenyl-5,6-dihydropyridazine-1(4H)-carbohydrazide from β-benzoylpropionic acid and carbohydrazide by refluxing in absolute ethanol in presence of sodium acetate. The structure of the newly synthesized compound was established on the basis of IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectral data.
Preparation of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube/Amino-Terminated Ionic Liquid Arrays and Their Electrocatalysis towards Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Wang Zhijuan , Latonen Rose-Marie , Kvarnström Carita , Ivaska Ari , Niu Li
Published: January 2010

Arrays of aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube-ionic liquid (MIL) were assembled on silicon wafers (Si-MIL). Formation of Si-MIL was confirmed by ATR-FTIR, AFM and Raman techniques. The electrochemical measurements indicated that Si-MIL showed good electrocatalysis towards oxygen reduction compared with MIL drop-cast on a glassy carbon electrode.
Influence of Chemical Conditions on the Nanoporous Structure of Silicate Aerogels
Authors: Sinkó Katalin
Published: January 2010

Silica or various silicate aerogels can be characterized by highly porous, open cell, low density structures. The synthesis parameters influence the three-dimensional porous structures by modifying the kinetics and mechanism of hydrolysis and condensation processes. Numerous investigations have shown that the structure of porous materials can be tailored by variations in synthesis conditions (e.g., the type of precursors, catalyst, and surfactants; the ratio of water/precursor; the concentrations; the medium pH; and the solvent). The objectives of this review are to summarize and elucidate the effects of chemical conditions on the nanoporous structure of sol-gel derived silicate aerogels.
Agarase: Review of Major Sources, Categories, Purification Method, Enzyme Characteristics and Applications
Authors: Fu Xiao Ting , Kim Sang Moo
Published: January 2010

Agarases are the enzymes which catalyze the hydrolysis of agar. They are classified into α-agarase (E.C. 3.2.1.158) and β-agarase (E.C. 3.2.1.81) according to the cleavage pattern. Several agarases have been isolated from different genera of bacteria found in seawater and marine sediments, as well as engineered microorganisms. Agarases have wide applications in food industry, cosmetics, and medical fields because they produce oligosaccharides with remarkable activities. They are also used as a tool enzyme for biological, physiological, and cytological studies. The paper reviews the category, source, purification method, major characteristics, and application fields of these native and gene cloned agarases in the past, present, and future.
Antiproliferative Effect and Ultrastructural Alterations Induced by Psilostachyin on Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Sülsen Valeria , Barrera Patricia , Muschietti Liliana , Martino Virginia , Sosa Miguel
Published: January 2010

The effect of psilostachyin, a natural sesquiterpene lactone, on the growth and viability of cultured epimastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi (Tulahuen) is reported. The antiproliferative effect was evaluated by counting the parasites in a Neubauer chamber and measuring their viability by using the dye exclusion technique. The effect on parasite growth was irreversible at concentrations higher than 1.0 µg/mL and the addition of glutathione only partially blocked the effect of the compound. Moreover, we have studied the effects of this natural compound on parasite ultrastructure by transmission electron microscopy. Interestingly, psilostachyin induced ultrastructural alterations on the parasites at a concentration of 0.5 µg/mL, with important mitochondrial swelling and deformity of the kinetoplast.
A Novel Bioinspired PVDF Micro/Nano Hair Receptor for a Robot Sensing System
Authors: Li Fei , Liu Weiting , Stefanini Cesare , Fu Xin , Dario Paolo
Published: January 2010

This paper describes the concept and design of a novel artificial hair receptor for the sensing system of micro intelligent robots such as a cricket-like jumping mini robot. The concept is inspired from the natural hair receptor of animals, also called cilium or filiform hair by different research groups, which is usually used as a vibration receptor or a flow detector by insects, mammals and fishes. The suspended fiber model is firstly built and the influence of scaling down is analyzed theoretically. The design of this artificial hair receptor is based on aligned suspended PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) fibers, manufactures with a novel method called thermo-direct drawing technique, and aligned suspended submicron diameter fibers are thus successfully fabricated on a flexible Kapton. In the post process step, some key problems such as separated electrodes deposition along with the fiber drawing direction and poling of micro/nano fibers to impart them with good piezoeffective activity have been presented. The preliminary validation experiments show that the artificial hair receptor has a reliable response with good sensibility to external pressure variation and, medium flow as well as its prospects in the application on sensing system of mini/micro bio-robots.
Participation and Sustainable Management of Coastal Lagoon Ecosystems: The Case of the Fosu Lagoon in Ghana
Authors: Armah Frederick A. , Yawson David O. , Pappoe Alex N.M. , Afrifa Ernest K.A.
Published: January 2010

Participation as a tool has been applied as a social learning process and communication platform to create awareness among stakeholders in the context of resource utilisation. The application of participatory processes to aquatic ecosystem management is attracting a growing body of literature. However, the application of participation as a tool for sustainable management of coastal lagoon ecosystems is recent. This paper examines the context and the extent of participation of stakeholders in the management of the Fosu lagoon in Ghana. Six hundred individuals from twenty seven stakeholder groups were randomly selected for study. Both closed and open-ended questions were used in face-to-face interviews with stakeholders. The findings indicate that the stakeholder groups were not involved in decision-making regarding the conservation of the lagoon irrespective of their expertise in planning and/or their interest in lagoon resource utilisation. This situation has created apathy among some of the stakeholders who feel neglected in the decision-making process. There is scope for broadening the base of interest groups in decision-making processes regarding the lagoon and improving stakeholder participation in the management of the lagoon to ensure the sustainability of the management process.
PP2A Inhibition Assay Using Recombinant Enzyme for Rapid Detection of Okadaic Acid and Its Analogs in Shellfish
Authors: Ikehara Tsuyoshi , Imamura Shihoko , Yoshino Atsushi , Yasumoto Takeshi
Published: January 2010

Okadaic acid and its analogs (OAs) responsible for diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) strongly inhibit protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and thus are quantifiable by measuring the extent of the enzyme inhibition. In this study, we evaluated the suitability of the catalytic subunit of recombinant human PP2A (rhPP2Ac) for use in a microplate OA assay. OA, dinophysistoxin-1(DTX1), and hydrolyzate of 7-O-palmitoyl-OA strongly inhibited rhPP2Ac activity with IC50 values of 0.095, 0.104, and 0.135 nM, respectively. The limits of detection and quantitation for OA in the digestive gland of scallops and mussels were 0.0348 μg/g and 0.0611 μg/g respectively, and, when converted to the whole meat basis, are well below the regulation level proposed by EU (0.16 μg/g whole meat). A good correlation with LC-MS data was demonstrated, the correlation coefficient being 0.996 with the regression slope of 1.097.
Herpesviruses and Autophagy: Catch Me If You Can!
Authors: Cavignac Yolaine , Esclatine Audrey
Published: January 2010

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved cellular degradation pathway involving the digestion of intracellular components via the lysosomal pathway. The autophagic pathway constitutively maintains cellular homeostasis by recycling cytoplasmic organelles and proteins, but it is also stimulated by environmental stress conditions, such as starvation, oxidative stress, and the accumulation of misfolded proteins. It also acts as a cellular defense mechanism against microorganisms by contributing to both the innate and adaptive immunity, and by eliminating intracellular pathogens (xenophagy). There is growing evidence that host cells try to control Herpesvirus infections by activating the autophagic machinery. However, it is well-known that Herpesviruses are smart pathogens and several, such as HSV-1, HCMV and HHV-8, are known to have developed numerous defense strategies for evading the host’s immune response. Inhibition of the antiviral autophagic mechanism has also been reported. Autophagy has also been shown to enhance the major histocompatibility complex presentation of at least two viral proteins, the EBVencoded EBNA-1 and the HSV-1 encoded gB. In this review, we present an overview of recent advances in our understanding of the complex interplay between autophagy and Herpesviruses.
Patient Education in Rural Community Hospitals: Registered Nurses' Attitudes and Degrees of Comfort
Authors: Jones Ruth Ann
Published: January 2010

This study examined whether academic preparation, years of experience, or job role influenced registered nurses' attitudes regarding patient education, the frequency of assuming teaching roles, and the degree of comfort in providing patient education. This quantitative study used a survey tool sent to 412 registered nurses in five rural community hospitals. There were 273 surveys returned (66.3%). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and analysis of variance with post hoc testing. Role ambiguity emerged with a significant difference based on educational preparation. Job role showed a significant difference in competency and comfort with patient education. Years of experience yielded significant differences in the registered nurses' degree of comfort in teaching within two of the three factors.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2010;41(1):41–48.
A Comparison of Multisensory and Traditional Interventions: on Inpatient Psychiatry and Geriatric Neuropsychiatry Units
Authors: Knight Margaret , Adkison Lesley , Kovach Joan Stack
Published: January 2010

Sensory rooms and the use of multi-sensory interventions are becoming popular in inpatient psychiatry. The empirical data supporting their use are limited, and there is only anecdotal evidence indicating effectiveness in psychiatric populations. The specific aims of this observational pilot study were to determine whether multisensory-based therapies were effective in managing psychiatric symptoms and to evaluate how these interventions compared to traditional ones used in the milieu. The study found that multisensory interventions were as effective as traditional ones in managing symptoms, and participants' Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores significantly improved following both kinds of intervention. Medication administration did not affect symptom reduction. This article explores how multisensory interventions offer choice in symptom management. Education regarding multisensory strategies should become integral to inpatient and outpatient group programs, in that additional symptom management strategies can only be an asset.
A NEW EPHEMERELLA FROM ILLINOIS (EPHEMEROPTERA)
Authors: McDunnough J.
Published: January 2010

Male. Head and thorax deep black-brown, pleura tinged with lighter brown: the mesothorax broad for the size of the insect and with the axillary cords scarcely extended beyond tip of scutellum. Abdomen with segments 1-6 and the anterior half of 7 dull semibvaline whitish with traces of a fine ruddy dorsal line and lateral rows of small ruddy spots or streaks situated one on each segment in the central area: posterior half of 7 and 8-10 opaque pinkish brown, paler ventrally: forceps pale tinged with brown a prominent tubercle situated between the limbs at base:setae white unbanded. Fore legs with the femora light sepia-brown tibiae and tarsi dull whitish the former shaded slightly with sepia at base tibia rather long more than twice as long as the femur and subequal to the entire tarsus: mid and hindlegs whitish the femora tinged with brown, femora and tibiae subequal. Wings hvaline with a brown tinge at extreme base: veins and crossveins pale. Length of body, 5 mm : of forewing 5 mm.
STUDIES IN CANADIAN DIPTERA—III.: The Species of the Tachinid Genera Related to Lydella, as Represented in the Canadian National Collection
Authors: Curran C. H.
Published: January 2010

In the Canadian Entolnologist for November, 1925, I reviewed tne Canadian species of Lydella Desv. As certain changes in the terminology therein proposed are necessary it seems advisable to review the related forms and present a key to the genera concerned. The species under discussion, with some exceptions, trace to Masicera Macq. in keys dealing with the Nearctic fauna and the key to the genera may be used to supplement those in Williston's Manual, 1908, and Coquillett's “Revision.”
FOUR NEW SPECIES OF ONTHOPHAGUS (COLEOPTERA)
Authors: Brown W. J.
Published: January 2010

Length 2.8-4 mm.; width 1.9-2.6 mm. Broadly oval; shining; black, the trophi, tibiae, and tarsi piceous ; body with short brownish-yellow hairs.
THE LIFE HISTORY AND HABITS OF A MAYFLY FROM UTAH
Authors: Needham James G.
Published: January 2010

While collecting at Birch Glen in Logan Canon, Utah, on June 18th, 1926, I first came upon the nymph of the mayfly (Rhithrogena mimus Eat.) that is the subject of this article. I was gathering aquatic insects from among the larger stones in a swift portion of the river. Dipterous larvae of Simulium and Bibiocephala were common, and the nymphs of the big mayfly Ephemerella doddsi (locally called the “ginger quill”) were appearing on my hand screen, when along with them appeared a few peculiar mayfly nymphs with broadly expanded gills of a bright rose-red color. I quickly got some of them into a rearing cage and in a few days had sub-imagos, and later adult reared specimens, of the species described below.
DESCRIPTIONS OF NINE NEW SPECIES OF MELANOTRICHUS REUTER FROM NORTH AMERICA (HEMIPTERA, MIRIDAE)
Authors: Knight Harry H.
Published: January 2010

For some time the writer has noticed in the genus Orthotylus Fieb., that the flavosparsus group of species present characters worthy of generic recognition namely: dorsum bearing two types of pubescence, simple hairs intermixed with recumbent, scale-like pubescence; left genital clasper represented by a simple curved hook, not bifurcate into two nearly equal parts as in typical Orthotylus. The genus Orthotylus Fieb. (type nassatus Fab.) is characterized by bearing only simple pubescence, while the left genital clasper is bifurcate near base, thus divided into two prominent arms (see figures 83-87, Hemiptera Connecticut, 1923). These two groups of species differ more widely than many recognized genera in the family Miridae, hence the writer proposes to recognize them as valid genera.