bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Resonance Mechanism Leading to Wind-Forced Motions with a 2f Frequency
Authors: Danioux Eric , Klein Patrice
Published: March 2008

This study revisits the mechanisms that spatially reorganize wind-forced inertial motions embedded in an oceanic mesoscale eddy field. Inertial motions are known to be affected by the eddy relative vorticity, being expelled from cyclonic structures and trapped within anticyclonic ones. Using shallow water equations (involving a single baroclinic mode), the authors show that nonlinear wave–wave interactions excite, through a resonance mechanism, motions with a 2f frequency (with f being the inertial frequency) and a specific length scale. In a more general situation involving several baroclinic modes, this resonance is found to be reinforced and principally efficient for the lowest baroclinic modes. Such characteristics make the energy of the wind-forced motions potentially available to small-scale mixing through parametric subharmonic instability (not taken into account in the present study).
A Hypothesis for the Redevelopment of Warm-Core Cyclones over Northern Australia
Authors: Emanuel Kerry , Callaghan Jeff , Otto Peter
Published: March 2008

Tropical cyclones moving inland over northern Australia are occasionally observed to reintensify, even in the absence of well-defined extratropical systems. Unlike cases of classical extratropical rejuvenation, such reintensifying storms retain their warm-core structure, often redeveloping such features as eyes. It is here hypothesized that the intensification or reintensification of these systems, christened agukabams, is made possible by large vertical heat fluxes from a deep layer of very hot, sandy soil that has been wetted by the first rains of the approaching systems, significantly increasing its thermal diffusivity. To test this hypothesis, simulations are performed with a simple tropical cyclone model coupled to a one-dimensional soil model. These simulations suggest that warm-core cyclones can indeed intensify when the underlying soil is sufficiently warm and wet and are maintained by heat transfer from the soil. The simulations also suggest that when the storms are sufficiently isolated from their oceanic source of moisture, the rainfall they produce is insufficient to keep the soil wet enough to transfer significant quantities of heat, and the storms then decay rapidly.
The Carnot Cycle and Area-Specific Work Equivalence on a Skew T–logp Diagram
Authors: DeCaria Alex
Published: March 2008

Attempts to calculate the area to specific work equivalence on a skew T–logp diagram for a Carnot cycle can lead to large errors if the pressures of the nodes of the cycle are estimated from the diagram. The cause is the extreme sensitivity of the calculation to the pressures of the nodes. To keep errors within 10%, the pressures of the nodes must be known to within 0.1 hPa, a precision that is not practical by direct reading from the diagram. To avoid these errors the pressures of the nodes should be calculated directly from Poisson’s equation, which relates temperature, potential temperature, and pressure.
On the Predictability of Mesoscale Convective Systems: Two-Dimensional Simulations
Authors: Wandishin Matthew S. , Stensrud David J. , Mullen Steven L. , Wicker Louis J.
Published: March 2008

Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) are a dominant climatological feature of the central United States and are responsible for a substantial fraction of warm season rainfall. Yet very little is known about the predictability of MCSs. To help alleviate this situation, a series of ensemble simulations of an MCS are performed on a two-dimensional, storm-scale (Δx = 1 km) model. Ensemble member perturbations in wind speed, relative humidity, and instability are based on current 24-h forecast errors from the North American Model (NAM). The ensemble results thus provide an upper bound on the predictability of mesoscale convective systems within realistic estimates of environmental uncertainty, assuming successful convective initiation.

The simulations are assessed by considering an ensemble member a success when it reproduces a convective system of at least 20 km in length (roughly the size of two convective cells) within 100 km on either side of the location of the MCS in the control run. By that standard, MCSs occur roughly 70% of the time for perturbation magnitudes consistent with 24-h forecast errors. Reducing the perturbations for all fields to one-half the 24-h error values increases the MCS success rate to over 90%. The same improvement in forecast accuracy would lead to a 30%–40% reduction in maximum surface wind speed uncertainty and a roughly 20% reduction in the uncertainty in maximum updraft strength, and initially slower growth in the uncertainty in the size of the MCS. However, the occurrence of MCSs drops below 50% as the midlayer mean relative humidity falls below 65%. The response of the model to reductions in forecast errors for instability, moisture, and wind speed is not consistent and cannot be easily generalized, but each can have a substantial impact on forecast uncertainty.
Isosorbide Dinitrate Spray as Therapeutic Strategy for Treatment of Chronic Venous Ulcers
Authors: Sánchez-Vázquez Rene , Briseño-Rodríguez G. , Cardona-Muñoz Ernesto German , Gálvez-Gastélum Francisco Javier , Totsuka-Sutto Silvia Elena , Garcia-Benavides Leonel
Published: March 2008

Venous ulcers are the most common form of leg ulcers, which induce lesion because of the loss of substances deposited on the damaged skin. Isosorbide dinitrate is a vasodilator with effects on both arteries and veins and induces opening of vascular layers. The objective is to study the effects of isosorbide dinitrate-spray in patients with chronic venous ulcers. Forty-five patients of both sexes with chronic venous ulcers were randomized to receive isosorbide dinitrate or placebo sprays daily for 3 months. The ulcers were measured and clinical characteristics were taken every 15 days during the treatment. Patients treated with isosorbide dinitrate showed an improvement of the ulcerated area (71.29%) compared with patients treated with placebo (54.35%). The histopathological study indicated an increment in the number of hypertrophic and hyperplasic capillaries. Macroscopically, the isosorbide dinitrate-treatment showed the best results, but it was only during the first 6 weeks of treatment. Patients with chronic venous ulcer receiving isosorbide dinitrate spray showed improvement.
Postaortic Valve Replacement Bradycardia Induced Torsades de Pointes
Authors: Amchentsev Alexey , Haq Salman A. , Holt Jeffery J. , Khan Aslam , Gelles Jeremiah , Kassotis John
Published: March 2008

The authors present an unusual case of torsades de pointes (Tdp) in an elderly woman with a history of aortic stenosis, status post aortic valve replacement. She was admitted for atrial fibrillation with a slow ventricular response. At the time of admission, the patient was asymptomatic and not taking any medications known to be associated with QT prolongation. During hospitalization, she developed episodes of Tdp without any provocable cause. This case highlights the occurrence of Tdp secondary to conduction disturbance caused by aortic valve surgery.
What Is the Relationship Between Myocardial Perfusion Imaging and Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factors and Markers of Inflammation?
Authors: Fleming Richard M. , Harrington Gordon M.
Published: March 2008

The treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD) is clinically measured by monitoring changes in venous lipids and inflammatory markers. There is currently no established quantified relationship between coronary flow reserve and markers of inflammatory CAD. A total of 120 men and women underwent quantified measurement of coronary blood flow using SPECT imaging at baseline and 1 year later. They had fasting venous blood work obtained at baseline and 1 year later. These markers of lipids and inflammation included, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoprotein-a, homocysteine, fibrinogen, C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6. Regression analysis reveals no general statistical relationship between these markers and coronary blood flow as measured by myocardial perfusion imaging. However, when changes in indices are considered and changes in risk factors are compared with changes in ischemia, blood factor based estimates yield an adjusted R2 = 0.31, R = 0.57, P < .0001. Initial levels of coronary ischemia cannot be diagnostically inferred from baseline values in lipid and inflammatory markers of coronary artery disease. When change in coronary blood flow is quantified using SPECT imaging, 6 independent underlying blood factors provided statistically useful information in identifying changes in coronary blood flow. Although the relationship of changes is statistically significant ( P < .0001), quantification of coronary blood flow by SPECT imaging provides physiologic status information, which cannot be inferred from fasting markers of lipids and inflammation status.
Coronary Stenosis Treated by Percutaneous Angioplasty in a Patient With Dermatomyositis
Authors: Kaźmierczak Jarosław , Peregud-Pogorzelska Małgorzata , Brzosko Iwona
Published: March 2008

A female patient suffering from dermatomyositis in whom symptoms of heart failure without angina is described. An impairment of left ventricular function and significant coronary lesions were diagnosed using noninvasive and invasive procedures. Coronary angioplasty with stent implantation was successfully applied to improve the quality of life and clinical symptoms.
Levo-Propionyl-Carnitine Improves the Effectiveness of Supervised Physical Training on the Absolute Claudication Distance in Patients With Intermittent Claudication
Authors: Andreozzi Giuseppe Maria , Leone Alfredo , Laudani Rita , Martin Romeo , Deinit Gregorio , Cataldi Valentina
Published: March 2008

The mechanisms by which supervised physical training improves walking ability in patients with intermittent claudication (IC) are microcirculatory, rheological, and metabolic. The main mechanism of levo-propionylcarnitine (LPC) is metabolic; it increases the walking ability in claudicants, providing an additional energy to the ischemic muscle by an anaplerotic activity. Therefore, the current study was carried out to ascertain whether the combined treatment has a synergistic effect. The results confirm the effectiveness of supervised physical training in patients with IC, and we recommend the use of LPC during the exercise training program, at least in patients with severe claudication. Finally, underlining the similar mechanisms of physical training and LPC treatment, the study suggests that a cycle of LPC infusions could be advised in patients with severe claudication who cannot be included, for various reasons, in an exercise rehabilitation program.
Coronary Artery Disease in Young Women and Men With Long-Standing Insulin-dependent Diabetes
Authors: Dickinson Stacy , Rogers Tyson , Kasiske Bert , Bertog Stefan , Tadros George , Malik Jamil , Wilson Robert , Panetta Carmelo
Published: March 2008

The prevalence and predictors of coronary artery disease were examined in people aged 40 years and younger with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Analysis was performed on those who presented between 1999 and 2003 for kidney and/or pancreas transplant at the University of Minnesota, as all patients who have diabetes mellitus are required to have perioperative cardiology evaluation. The mean age was 33.5 ± 4.4 years for 88 subjects, all had insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and 33% were dialysis dependent. Severe coronary artery disease was found in 18.2% of women and in 24.2% of men. Three-vessel coronary artery disease trended less in women (9.1%) compared with men (12.1%). Multivariate predictors for severe and 3-vessel coronary artery disease included prior coronary artery disease, hypertension duration, and ST-T wave changes on electrocardiogram. Coronary artery disease is twice as high as expected in young woman. Studies on early management for atherosclerosis are warranted in this high-risk population.
Migration of an Endovascular Stent From Superior Vena Cava to the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract in a Patient With Superior Vena Cava Syndrome
Authors: Poludasu Shyam S. , Vladutiu Pompeiu , Lazar Jason
Published: March 2008

Migration of endovascular stents is a rare problem but can be fatal. We report an unusual case of an endovascular stent in the right ventricular outflow tract, which migrated from superior vena cava in a patient with superior vena cava syndrome.
The Tromped: A Solution for Flight-Related Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Authors: Collins Carolyn , Fitzgerald Patricia , Kennedy David M. , Corrigan Thomas , Jerrams Stephen , Bouchier-Hayes David J.
Published: March 2008

Flight-related deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is well recognized. Reduced venous return occurs during immobility. This alteration in venous hemodynamics may contribute to DVT development. A prototype design of an in-flight exercise device to stimulate ambulatory bloodflow while seated has been developed, consisting of a foot pedal attached to a base by a hinge mechanism. Four devices of differing resistance were evaluated. Calf muscle pump function was assessed by air plethysmography in 10 healthy volunteers. Ejection volume fraction and RVF were determined in the standing position (control values) and were compared with those achieved by depression of the 4 devices while seated. Similar EVF and RVF values were achieved by the control and 2 of the devices. Plantar flexion against a predetermined resistance can effectively activate the calf muscle pump while seated and may reduce the incidence of flight-related DVT.
Diagnosis and Management of Subclavian Vein Thrombosis: Three Case Reports and Review of Literature
Authors: Smith Richard A. , Dimitri Sameh K.
Published: March 2008

Axillosubclavian vein thrombosis is seen relatively infrequently in clinical practice when compared with lower limb deep-venous thrombosis; however, it is a condition that can result in significant morbidity if managed suboptimally. A multimodal treatment approach has been increasingly adopted with thrombolysis and/or thoracic outlet decompression being favored over anticoagulation alone, although the evidence base to support this approach is limited. In all, 3 cases are reported, which highlight numerous pertinent issues relating to the diagnostic and therapeutic options available.
Lymphatic Tissue Transplant in Lymphedema—A Minimally Invasive, Outpatient, Surgical Method: A 10-Year Follow-up Pilot Study
Authors: Belcaro Gianni , Errichi Bruno M. , Cesarone M. Rosaria , Ippolito Edmondo , Dugall Mark , Ledda Andrea , Ricci Andrea
Published: March 2008

Lymphedema is mainly characterized by swelling, fibrosis, and nonpitting edema. The aim of this study was evaluation of the long-term (10 years) effects of autologus lymphatic tissue implant in lymphedema. Lymphatic tissue from 9 patients (harvested form the same patient in areas not affected by lymphedema) was reimplanted into the affected limb, and these patients were followed for 10 years. Lymph nodes were harvested at the neck, axillary, or inguinal space (contralateral limb). Results showed that limb volume was decreased in the treatment group vs. controls. In ultrasound, black, low density, lymphatic spaces were visible in 100% of patients at inclusion but in only 23% of these subjects at 10 years. Thus, this early report proposes a new, minimally invasive method to improve lymphedema. Studies in progress will indicate the role of lymphatic transplant in the management of lymphedema and the best indications for this method.
The New Public Management reforms in Asia: a comparison of South and Southeast Asian countries
Authors: Samaratunge Ramanie , Alam Quamrul , Teicher Julian
Published: March 2008

It has been recognized that there is a need for a cross-country analysis that can be used to identify the factors that contribute to the problems of state incapacity in South and Southeast Asian nations. In taking up this challenge, we explore selected initiatives of new public management (NPM) in the region to analyse cross-country variations. For this purpose we have chosen four South and Southeast Asian countries, namely: Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. This article examines how the contextual factors. namely political history, party politics, macroeconomic considerations, state tradition, role of International Development Agencies (IDAs) and the state of civil society, influence the nature and the outcome NPM initiatives in these four countries. We argue that contextual factors played a determining role for which Singapore and Malaysia are relatively successful on their own terms compared to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which failed to achieve the expected benefits from NPM reforms.

Points for practitioners

It has been argued that there is a need for a cross-country analysis to identify the factors that contribute to the problems of public sector reforms in South and Southeast Asian nations. In taking up this challenge, we have explored selected initiatives of new public management (NPM) to analyse cross-country variations using four South and Southeast Asian countries, namely: Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. We argue that unique country-specific contextual factors have played a determining role for which Singapore and Malaysia are relatively successful on their own terms compared to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in public management reforms.
Trust in the public sector: is there any evidence for a long-term decline?
Authors: Van de Walle Steven , Van Roosbroek Steven , Bouckaert Geert
Published: March 2008

Concerns with declining public trust in government have become a permanent element of the contemporary political discourse. This concern also extends to levels of citizens' trust in the public administration and public services. Trust is said to be declining, and this decline is generally seen as detrimental to public service delivery. In this article, we examine the main elements in this discussion, review the existing international survey data and summarize the main findings for Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Citizens' trust in the public sector is found to fluctuate, and the data generally do not show consistently declining levels of trust. Furthermore, in some countries there simply are insufficient data to come to any conclusions at all about time trends in citizen trust in the public sector.

Points for practitioners

This article summarizes some of the survey material on citizens' trust in the public administration. It allows practitioners to compare trends in public trust in their country across time and space. The findings lead us to reject the hypothesis of a universal decline of trust in the public sector. The article warns against using opinion poll results without considering context. The long-term and comparative perspective on citizens' trust in the public sector is all too often absent from the policy discourse that is frequently based on assumptions and ad hoc approaches.
Management of the new pay systems in the public sector — some implications of insights gained from experiments
Authors: Bregn Kirsten
Published: March 2008

During recent decades, new pay systems have been widely introduced in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Experiments draw attention to some aspects which are normally not included in analyses of pay systems, namely fairness and reciprocity. Furthermore, the experiments indicate a different understanding of what are perceived as gains and losses than what is assumed in conventional economic theory, and they also indicate an asymmetric evaluation of gains and losses. The aim of the article is to present some results from these experiments and to investigate their implications for pay systems in the public sector. The conclusion is that the results have important implications for the management of pay systems, and due to some specific characteristics of the public sector, for management of pay systems in the public sector in particular.

Points for practitioners

Insights gained from experiments concerning fairness, reciprocity and perceived gains and losses shed a new light on management of pay. They stress the importance of managers taking responsibility for ensuring acceptance of criteria for pay supplements and bonuses, and for a realistic formation of expectations about pay supplements and bonuses. Moreover, the managers need to ensure that supplements and bonuses are provided in accordance with the criteria in such a way that the allocation of supplements and bonuses is considered to be fair, and justified expectations are met. This can be particularly difficult in the public sector. Thus, considerable caution in relation to using the individualization of pay to motivate employees in the public sector is recommended.
The use of service channels by citizens in the Netherlands: implications for multi-channel management
Authors: Pieterson Willem , Ebbers Wolfgang
Published: March 2008

Many governmental organizations are changing their service channel management strategies to multi-channel management. However, very few empirical studies exist that explore how these multi-channel strategies should be shaped. In this article we test a number of hypotheses on citizens' channel use behaviour and the determinants of this behaviour. Further, we take into account the differences between citizens with and without a personal computer. In our conclusions we call for multi-channel strategies that do not only incorporate the features of service channels and the front—back office integration, but also deal with personal characteristics and task characteristics. Further, digital divide issues still influence channel usage by citizens, so it is necessary to keep all channels open for citizens. Finally, our study reveals that multi-channelling is a very complex subject on which research is still in its infancy.

Points for practitioners

• Multi-channel management may benefit most from channel integration.

• Channels have different characteristics that render them suitable for different (parts of) services.

• Computer `have-nots' still rely on traditional service channels, so these should remain accessible.
Effect of Fiber Surface Texture Created from Silane Blends on the Strength and Energy Absorption of the Glass Fiber/Epoxy Interphase
Authors: Gao X. , Jensen R.E. , Li W. , Deitzel J. , McKnight S.H. , Gillespie J.W.
Published: March 2008

Most of the research to date has focused on tailoring the interphase adhesion by controlling the degree of chemical bonding between fiber and resin. The interfacial shear strength (IFSS) has been increased as much as 40% by modified chemical surface bonding [1—3]. However, it is well known that increasing the interfacial strength of the fiber reinforced polymeric composite material often leads to a reduction in the fracture toughness and vice versa [4—12]. In this study, the effects of mechanical interlocking, in addition to chemical bonding on the strength and energy absorption of glass fiber/epoxy interphase, were studied by creating texture on the fiber surface through the phase separation of silane blends. A series of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)/3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPS) blends in solutions of ethanol and water was selected to treat the glass fiber surface. The fiber coated with different surface treatments shows the change in fiber surface morphology due to the addition of TEOS. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that the GPS preferentially migrates to the coating surface which suggests that phase separation induced by the silane blend was the primary mechanism for the texture formation. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to scan the fiber surface after the coating and the fiber surface texture was quantified by the roughness values. In addition, a single-fiber Microdroplet shear test was conducted to assess the interfacial properties between the textured glass surface and an epoxy matrix. Traditionally, interfacial shear strength is the only quantity that was determined from the load vs. displacement curve after microdroplet test. In this study, a new data-reduction scheme was developed to determine the energy absorption due to different failure mechanisms by taking into consideration both machine compliance and fiber stretching in the energy calculation. The results show as much as a three-fold increase in specific sliding energy absorption without sacrificing interfacial shear strength. The examination of failure surfaces shows that failure mode propagates through the textured interphase in a more tortuous path, which results in greater degree of energy absorption during fiber—matrix pullout. This study shows the potential for using chemical bonding and mechanical interlocking effects to improve both strength and energy absorption in fiber reinforced composites.
Prediction of Crushing Stress in Composite Materials
Authors: Goh S. , Ku H. , Ang S.L.
Published: March 2008

A simple mathematical model for predicting the crushing stress of composite materials was derived and presented in this article. The present knowledge of fracture mechanics and strength of materials are used as the basis for the model. The fracture mechanics part of the analysis was based on energy release rate approach; the energy release rate, G, of the proposed model was determined by this approach. This energy release rate was based on the Mode I (opening or tensile mode) failure. As for the strength of materials part analysis, buckling theory was used to determine the critical load of the fiber beams. These two engineering concepts were combined to form the equation for the proposed model. The derived equation is a function of the materials properties, geometric, and physical parameters of the composite materials. The calculated stresses from the derived equation were compared with experimental data from technical and research articles. Good agreements shown in the results are encouraging and recommendations for future analysis with different modes of failure were also presented. This article enables engineering designers to predict crushing stress in composite materials with confidence and makes their work more efficient and reliable.
Characterization of Fiber Volume Fraction Gradients in Composite Laminates
Authors: Cann Michael T. , Adams Daniel O. , Schneider Claudio L.
Published: March 2008

Experimental methods were assessed for accurately characterizing through-the-thickness fiber volume fraction gradients in fiber-reinforced composite laminates. Two optical microscopy-based image analysis methods were considered for this purpose: the areal method and the fiber counting method. Although the areal method currently appears to be the more commonly used method, the fiber counting method was determined to be the preferred optical microscopy-based method when an accurate measure of fiber cross-sectional area is available. Based on this determination, the fiber counting method was used to perform ply-by-ply fiber volume fraction determinations on four sets of autoclave-cured carbon/ epoxy unidirectional and symmetric cross-ply laminates. Although all four laminates displayed out-of-plane curvature following curing, no statistically significant through-the-thickness fiber volume fraction gradient was found in any of the laminates.
Tracking the Moisture Expansion of Carbon/Epoxy Composite Exposed to Varying Humidity
Authors: Chang Ting-Wei , Tsai Cho-Liang , Yeih Weichung , Chang Jiang-Jhy
Published: March 2008

The moisture expansion of composites exposed to humid air was investigated. Tests for moisture expansion were performed on carbon/epoxy laminates exposed to humid air of different relative humidity levels and temperatures. The expansion strain data were employed to derive the material's diffusivity and the saturated expansion strain. The result indicated that the saturated expansion strain is about proportional to the level of humidity and inversely proportional to absolute temperature. An algorithm was then employed to track moisture expansion of a laminate in air with varying humidity level based on the diffusivity and the saturated expansion strain. The theoretical predictions were confirmed experimentally.
Geometrically Non-linear Analysis of Functionally Graded Material (FGM) Plates and Shells using a Four-node Quasi-Conforming Shell Element
Authors: Kim Ki-Du , Gilson Rescober Lomboy  , Han Sung-Cheon
Published: March 2008

The four-node quasi-conforming shell element was extended in the present article to the case of geometrically non-linear behavior of the FGM plates and shells. The high stress occurring in the FGM structures will affect its integrity and the structures is susceptible to failure. Therefore, we focus on the effect of volume fraction of the constituent materials in the mechanical behavior of FGM plates and shells. The material properties are assumed to be varied in the thickness direction according to a sigmoid function in terms of the volume fraction of the constituents. The series solutions of sigmoid FGM (S-FGM) plates, based on the first-order shear deformation theory and Fourier series expansion are provided as the reference solution for the numerical results. In quasi-conforming formulation, the tangent stiffness matrix is explicitly integrated. This makes the element computationally efficient in the non-linear analysis. Several selected examples of non-linear analysis of FGM shells are included in the article for the illustration of possibilities of the presented formulation. It is seen that the present results for the non-linear behavior of FGM plates and shells can provide a useful benchmark to check the accuracy of related numerical solutions.
The Relationship Between Gambling Cognitions, Psychological States, and Gambling
Authors: Po Oei Tian , Lin James , Raylu Namrata
Published: March 2008

High rates of gambling and problem gambling among the Chinese have been well documented in anecdotal and empirical reports. However, there is a lack of research on the relationship between important gambling correlates (e.g., gambling cognitions and psychological states) and gambling. This study investigated the role of gambling cognitions and psychological states on problem gambling behavior among 501 participants (306 Caucasians and 195 Chinese living in Australia). Participants completed the South Oaks Gambling Screen, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), and the Gambling Related Cognitions Scale (GRCS). A significant positive relationship between GRCS and DASS on problem gambling behavior was found for both groups. Further gender disparities in anxiety, stress, and illusion of control were revealed for both ethnicities. Implications of these findings and possible future research are discussed.
Self-Construals Across Cultures
Authors: Harb Charles , Smith Peter B.
Published: March 2008

This article reviews the literature on cross-cultural assessment of self-construals and proposes to refine their conceptualization by incorporating principles derived from self-categorization theory and a critique of cross-cultural research. A Sixfold Self-Construal Scale is devised to measure six subcategories of self-construal: the personal self, relational horizontal and relational vertical selves, collective horizontal and collective vertical selves, and humanity-bound self-construal. The instrument's reliability and factor structure are tested in four student samples ( N = 855) from the United Kingdom, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Convergent validity of the Sixfold Self-Construal Scale is tested with measures of Group Identification, Inclusion of the Other in the Self, the Schwartz value survey, and comparison of national mean scores. Results support the reliability, validity, and sensitivity of the scale in all samples.
U.S. Southern and Northern Differences in Perceptions of Norms About Aggression
Authors: Vandello Joseph A. , Cohen Dov , Ransom Sean
Published: March 2008

This article explores one reason why norms for male honor-related aggression persist in the U.S. South, even though they may no longer be functional. The authors suggest that, in addition to cultural differences in internalized honor-related values, southerners are more likely than northerners to perceive peer endorsement of aggression norms. Study 1 found that southern males were especially likely to overestimate the aggressiveness of their peers. Study 2 tested the hypothesis that southerners would be more likely to actively encourage aggressive behavior in others, but no support was found. However, Study 3 found that southern men were more likely than northern men to perceive others as encouraging aggression when witnessing interpersonal conflicts. Together, these studies suggest that southern males are more likely than their northern counterparts to assume their peers endorse and enforce norms of aggression that can lead to the perpetuation of norms for honorable violence above and beyond any differences in internalized values.
Mutual Self-Enhancement in Japan and the United States
Authors: Dalsky David , Gohm Carol L. , Noguchi Kenji , Shiomura Kimihiro
Published: March 2008

The authors address the debate on pancultural self-enhancement by suggesting that some Japanese enhance their self-worth by praising and receiving praise from others included in the self. The authors call this process “mutual self-enhancement” and validated a scale for its measurement in Japan and the United States. Mutual self-enhancement was positively correlated with including others in the self, relational self-construal, family support, and sympathy. Mutual self-enhancement was not related to the interdependent self, collectivism, and approval from others, confirming that the process involves including others in the self via self-expansion rather than fitting into an interdependent relationship network. Future studies based on the self-expansion model will consider the inclusion of in-group members in the self as an important part of mutual self-enhancement that predicts well-being in East Asian countries such as Japan.
The Influence of Cultural Value Orientations On Self-Reported Emotional Expression Across Cultures
Authors: Wong Sowan , Bond Michael Harris , Rodriguez Mosquera Patricia M.
Published: March 2008

The present study examined the relationship between Schwartz's cultural value orientations (2004) and self-reported emotional expression across seven emotions in 25 cultural groups using a multilevel random coefficient modeling technique. Two forms of self-reported emotional expression, i.e., non-verbal and verbal expression, were examined. No clear pattern of moderation by cultural value orientations on the relationships among the emotion variables and emotional expression was found. However, significant relationships were found between cultural value orientations of hierarchy, autonomy-embeddedness, and mastery, and cultural-level means of emotional expression. These findings were discussed in terms of the normative social agendas for cultural groups high on these value orientations.
An Exploration of the Indecisiveness Scale in Multiethnic Malaysia
Authors: Swami Viren , Sinniah Dhachayani , Subramaniam Ponnusamy , Pillai Subash K. , Kannan Kumaraswami , Chamorro-Premuzic Tomas
Published: March 2008

This article examined the construct of indecisiveness, or the inability to make timely decisions, in a multiethnic sample from Malaysia. In all, 164 (84 women, 80 men) Malay participants and 150 (76 women, 74 men) Chinese participants completed a Malay version of Frost and Shows's Indecisiveness Scale. Results showed that interitem reliabilities for both ethnic groups were high. Test-retest reliability with 21 participants after 10 days was also very high. The results of a confirmatory factor analysis testing the equivalency of a hypothesized single factorial structure for Malays and Chinese showed adequate fit for both ethnic groups. Based on single factorial structure, there were significant ethnic differences on overall indecisiveness scores (with Malays being more indecisive than Chinese) but no sex differences. These results are discussed in terms of previous cross-cultural work using the Indecisiveness Scale.
The Role of Religious Certainty and Uncertainty in Moral Orientation in a Catholic Province in the Netherlands
Authors: Knibbe Kim
Published: March 2008

In the post-secularization debates about the role of religion in contemporary European societies, social scientists and philosophers often build on (speculative) sociological theories as to whether the conditions of life in (high) modernity produce existential insecurities that give rise to a need for a particular kind of religiosity. This religiosity is seen as rooted in the only things that still seem to provide some basis for certainty: experience and the self. In this article the author argues that a focus on processes of signification reveals that both religious certainty and religious uncertainty can be a strong source for moral orientation in contemporary Limburg (in the Netherlands), but does not necessarily lead to a stronger emphasis on experience and the self. Fundamental to this argument is Jackson's insight into practices of signification as a ceaseless negotiation of the boundary between two domains: the domain considered to be susceptible to human control, and the domain outside human control.
Acceptation religieuse du moi: l'identité chez les jeunes néo-évangélistes
Authors: Roeland Johan
Published: March 2008

L'évangélisme américain possède une dimension thérapeutique marquée. Il répond à des incertitudes auxquelles le moi moderne est confronté et il a développé une forme de thérapie religieuse qui propose des outils et des techniques pour gérer ces incertitudes. L'auteur soutient que cette orientation thérapeutique est également caractéristique du mouvement néo-évangéliste, qui recueille un franc succès auprès des jeunes chrétiens néerlandais. Le néoévangélisme est populaire auprès des jeunes, car il les aide à faire face aux incertitudes liées à la construction de leur identité. Non seulement il leur fournit d'autres modèles de trajectoires du moi, par lesquelles les jeunes peuvent se constituer une identité propre, mais il leur apporte en outre une acceptation (religieuse) élémentaire de leur identité.
L'évolution liturgique comme réponse à la sécularisation: le cas de deux Églises protestantes aux Pays-Bas
Authors: Versteeg Peter
Published: March 2008

L'auteur de l'article se penche sur les rapports entre la sécularisation et l'incertitude rituelle en comparant entre deux Églises protestantes néerlandaises. Il soutient que les liturgies ne sont pas nécessairement le reflet de processus sociaux plus larges et que leur forme résulte plutôt d'une dynamique ecclésiale interne. Par ailleurs, au niveau des croyances, l'incertitude provoquee par la contestation de la valeur de la foi chrétienne est un thème récurrent. Certaines nouvelles pratiques liturgiques, telles que le culte charismatique et le ministere de la prière, constituent des réponses à cette incertitude au sens où elles visent à exprimer clairement la réalité du Dieu chrétien. Ce faisant, ces pratiques procurent aux congrégations le sentiment d'une identité religieuse unifiée, ce qui est attrayant pour les protestants, qui recherchent une nouvelle affirmation du christianisme. À l'inverse, les pratiques religieuses qui laissent une place à une pluralité de croyances sont l'expression d'une diversification au sein de l'Église et même de la société, mais elles donnent lieu à une identité plus faible et morcelée.
Seeking Guidance from the Spirits: Neo-Shamanic Divination Rituals in Modern Dutch Society
Authors: Minkjan Hanneke
Published: March 2008

Despite the fact that the Netherlands is one of the most secularized countries of Western Europe, different forms of religiosity have emerged, such as charismatic movements and alternative spirituality. Some people are seeking to find security and religious fulfilment in the complicated context of modern Dutch society through unusual, irrational and creative new spiritual practices. Neo-shaman divination rituals offer enchanted repertoires to cope with decision-making and problems of the soul. This paper explores the ways in which especially highly educated women engage in creative trance journeys to meet neo-shamanic guides. The neo-shamanic worldview and symbolic healing practices offer them new religious expressions to get a grip on the existential insecurities of an unsure future.
La fin de la religion? Réenchantement et déplacement du sacré
Authors: Lee Raymond L. M.
Published: March 2008

La religion a perdu son exclusivité définitionnelle en raison de changements sociaux et culturels qui ont réduit la distance entre le sacré et le profane. Aujourd'hui, être ``croyant'' peut aussi bien désigner le fait d'aller régulièrement à l'église ou au temple que celui d'assister à des matches de football ou de suivre des cours de tai-chi. Toutefois, les ``activités spirituelles'' sont en nombre croissant et le souci du développement spirituel ne se dément pas. Ce paradoxe souligne un dilemme émergeant du moi: le moi peut-il continuer à revendiquer le caractère sacré de ses constructions institutionnelles tout en cherchant à renforcer son propre champ spirituel? C'est dans le contexte du réenchantement que ce dilemme trouve sa solution. Le fait que le charisme se soit libéré des institutions religieuses alimente le réenchantement, au point que la religion semble imploser sous les auspices d'une insistance constante sur l'expérience individuelle. Dans ce contexte, le sacré ne correspond pas nécessairement à la signification conventionnelle de la religion, dès lors que la subjectivité est devenue un élément central de la connaissance du divin plutôt que d'être inféodée aux structures de la religion.
Cyclodextrins
Authors: Stella Valentino J. , He Quanren
Published: March 2008

β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and other cyclodextrins (CDs) have utility for solubilizing and stabilizing drugs; however, some are nephrotoxic when administered parenterally. A number of workers have attempted to identify, prepare, and evaluate various CD derivatives with superior inclusion complexation and maximal in vivo safety for various biomedical uses. A systematic study led to SBE-β-CD (Captisol), a polyanionic variably substituted sulfobutyl ether of β-CD, as a non-nephrotoxic derivative and HP-β-CD, a modified CD developed by Janssen. SBE-β-CD and HP-β-CD have undergone extensive safety studies and are currently used in six products approved by the Food and Drug Administration (four for Captisol and two for HP-β-CD). They are also in use in numerous clinical and preclinical studies. This article will focus on the issues that led to the development of these two CDs, their safety, characterization, and applications, and especially their ability to improve drug delivery. SBE-β-CD interacts very well with neutral drugs to facilitate solubility and chemical stability, and because of its polyanionic nature, it interacts particularly well with cationic drugs. Complexes between SBE-β-CD and HP-β-CD and various drugs have been shown to rapidly dissociate after parenteral drug administration, to have no tissue-irritating effects after intramuscular dosing, and to result in superior oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. The pharmacokinet-ics, tissue distribution, and cellular effects of some representative CDs, including SBE-β-CD and HP-β-CD, are reviewed. The safety profiles of CDs are discussed, with emphasis on the biological effects of some CDs on the gastrointestinal tract, kidney, and reproduction and development and the carcinogenic potential of CDs. In addition, human experience with CD derivatives, specifically SBE-β-CD and HP-β-CD, indicates that these two CDs are well tolerated in humans and have no adverse effects on the kidneys or other organs following either oral or intravenous administration.
Drug Nanoparticles: Formulating Poorly Water-Soluble Compounds
Authors: Merisko-Liversidge Elaine M. , Liversidge Gary G.
Published: March 2008

More than 40% of compounds identified through combinatorial screening programs are poorly soluble in water. These molecules are difficult to formulate using conventional approaches and are associated with innumerable formulation-related performance issues. Formulating these compounds as pure drug nanoparticles is one of the newer drug-delivery strategies applied to this class of molecules. Nanoparticle dispersions are stable and have a mean diameter of less than 1 micron. The formulations consist of water, drug, and one or more generally regarded as safe excipients. These liquid dispersions exhibit an acceptable shelf-life and can be postprocessed into various types of solid dosage forms. Drug nanoparticles have been shown to improve bioavailability and enhance drug exposure for oral and parenteral dosage forms. Suitable formulations for the most commonly used routes of administration can be identified with milligram quantities of drug substance, providing the discovery scientist with an alternate avenue for screening and identifying superior analogs. For the toxicologist, the approach provides a means for dose escalation using a formulation that is commercially viable. In the past few years, formulating poorly water-soluble compounds using a nanoparticulate approach has evolved from a conception to a realization whose versatility and applicability are just beginning to be realized.
Biocompatibility: Meeting a Key Functional Requirement of Next-Generation Medical Devices
Authors: Helmus Michael N. , Gibbons Donald F. , Cebon David
Published: March 2008

The array of polymeric, biologic, metallic, and ceramic biomaterials will be reviewed with respect to their biocompatibility, which has traditionally been viewed as a requirement to develop a safe medical device. With the emergence of combination products, a paradigm shift is occurring that now requires biocompatibility to be designed into the device. In fact, next-generation medical devices will require enhanced biocompatibility by using, for example, pharmacological agents, bioactive coatings, nanotextures, or hybrid systems containing cells that control biologic interactions to have desirable biologic outcomes. The concept of biocompatibility is moving from a “do no harm” mission (i.e., nontoxic, nonantigenic, nonmutagenic, etc.) to one of doing “good,” that is, encouraging positive healing responses. These new devices will promote the formation of normal healthy tissue as well as the integration of the device into adjacent tissue. In some contexts, biocompatibility can become a disruptive technology that can change therapeutic paradigms (e.g., drug-coated stents). New database tools to access biocompatibility data of the materials of construction in existing medical devices will facilitate the use of existing and new biomaterials for new medical device designs.
The Application of Fluorescent Quantum Dots to Confocal, Multiphoton, and Electron Microscopic Imaging
Authors: Deerinck Thomas J.
Published: March 2008

Fluorescent quantum dots are emerging as an important tool for imaging cells and tissues, and their unique optical and physical properties have captured the attention of the research community. The most common types of commercially available quantum dots consist of a nanocrystalline semiconductor core composed of cadmium selenide with a zinc sulfide capping layer and an outer polymer layer to facilitate conjugation to targeting biomolecules such as immunoglobulins. They exhibit high fluorescent quantum yields and have large absorption cross-sections, possess excellent photostability, and can be synthesized so that their narrow-band fluorescence emission can occur in a wide spectrum of colors. These properties make them excellent candidates for serving as multiplexing molecular beacons using a variety of imaging modalities including highly correlated microscopies. Whereas much attention has been focused on quantum-dot applications for live-cell imaging, we have sought to characterize and exploit their utility for enabling simultaneous multiprotein immunolabeling in fixed cells and tissues. Considerations for their application to immunolabeling for correlated light and electron microscopic analysis are discussed.