bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of clear‐felling subalpine coniferous forests on soil physical and chemical properties in the eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Pang X. Y. , Bao W. K. , Wu N.
Published: February 2011

Establishing soil quality changes following clear‐felling is important for guiding the sustainable management of forests. In this study we identified changes after 4, 5, 10 and 17 yr in soil physical and chemical properties from clear‐felling in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. These properties were also compared with those of soil from an adjacent primary forest. The results show that: (i) bulk density at 0–20 and 20–40 cm soil layer continuously increased; (ii) soil C and total N in the 0–20 cm soil layer continuously declined following clear‐felling; and (iii) available soil nutrients and exchangeable cations were significantly influenced by clear‐felling. Almost all soil properties showed deteriorating trends within a short time from clear‐felling and subsequent seasonal grazing by cattle. Therefore, improved management is imperative for sustaining soil quality and maintaining the long‐term nutrient balance in clear‐cut stands. The cessation of anthropogenic activities such as grazing should be the main strategy for soil restoration in clear‐felled areas.
Ethnic Context and Immigration Policy Preferences Among Latinos and Anglos*
Authors: Rocha Rene R. , Longoria Thomas , Wrinkle Robert D. , Knoll Benjamin R. , Polinard J. L. , Wenzel James
Published: February 2011

Objective. We examine how the immigration policy preferences of Anglos and Latinos vary according to ethnic context. Specifically, we hypothesize that immigration policy attitudes are a product of both Latino immigrant and Latino native born group size. In contrast to previous work, which found that Latinos and Anglos react to contextual forces in an identical manner, we argue that Latino group size produces opposite reactions for Anglos and Latinos.

Methods. These hypotheses are tested using an original state‐wide survey of Anglos and Latinos in Texas conducted during 2006, which is supplemented with data from the 2000 Census.

Results. Our findings show that residing in a heavily Latino area produces more liberal immigration attitudes among Latinos and more conservative attitudes among Anglos. However, this result is driven not by the size of the foreign‐born Latino population, but by the size of the native‐born Latino population.

Conclusion. Anti‐immigrant sentiments among Anglos appear to result, at least in part, from ethnic concerns.
Race, Racial Resentment, Attentiveness to the News Media, and Public Opinion Toward the Jena Six*
Authors: Goidel Kirby , Parent Wayne , Mann Bob
Published: February 2011

Objective. We outline the role of race, racial resentment, and attentiveness to news in structuring public opinion toward the prosecution of the Jena Six, the name given to six African‐American high school students who beat a white student, five of whom were subsequently charged with attempted second‐degree murder.

Method. We rely on a telephone survey of 428 registered voters collected in the aftermath of the protests in Jena, Louisiana.

Results. Public reactions were heavily filtered by race and associated with measures of racial resentment. African Americans followed news about the protests more closely, believed race was the most important consideration in the decision to prosecute, and believed the decision to prosecute was the wrong decision. Racially conservative white respondents were less likely to believe race was the most important consideration in the decision to prosecute and were more likely to believe that the decision to prosecute was the right decision. Consistent with theories of agenda setting and framing, attentiveness to the news influenced perceptions regarding the importance of race in the decision to prosecute but not whether the decision was the right decision.

Conclusions. At least within the context of the Deep South, race and racial attitudes continue to be an important predictor of public reactions to racially charged events. Attentiveness to the news influenced the lens through which events were interpreted, but not perceptions of whether the outcome was the right decision.
Religion and Attitudes Toward Same‐Sex Marriage Among U.S. Latinos*
Authors: Ellison Christopher G. , Acevedo Gabriel A. , Ramos‐Wada Aida I.
Published: February 2011

Objectives.This study examines links between multiple aspects of religious involvement and attitudes toward same‐sex marriage among U.S. Latinos. The primary focus is on variations by affiliation and participation, but the possible mediating roles of biblical beliefs, clergy cues, and the role of religion in shaping political views are also considered.

Methods.We use binary logistic regression models to analyze data from a large nationwide sample of U.S. Latinos conducted by the Pew Hispanic Forum in late 2006.

Results.Findings highlight the strong opposition to same‐sex marriage among Latino evangelical (or conservative) Protestants and members of sectarian groups (e.g., LDS), even compared with devout Catholics. Although each of the hypothesized mediators is significantly linked with attitudes toward same‐sex marriage, for the most part controlling for them does not alter the massive affiliation/attendance differences in attitudes toward same‐sex marriage.

Conclusions.This study illustrates the importance of religious cleavages in public opinion on social issues within the diverse U.S. Latino population. The significance of religious variations in Hispanic civic life is likely to increase with the growth of the Latino population and the rising numbers of Protestants and sectarians among Latinos.
Parental Job Loss and Children's Educational Attainment in Black and White Middle‐Class Families*
Authors: Kalil Ariel , Wightman Patrick
Published: February 2011

Objectives. We aim to understand why blacks are significantly less likely than whites to perpetuate their middle‐class status across generations. To do so, we focus on the potentially different associations between parental job loss and youth's educational attainment in black and white middle‐class families.

Methods. We use data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID), following those children “born” into the survey between 1968 and 1979 and followed through age 21. We conduct multivariate regression analyses to test the association between parental job loss during childhood and youth's educational attainment by age 21.

Results. We find that parental job loss is associated with a lesser likelihood of obtaining any postsecondary education for all offspring, but that the association for blacks is almost three times as strong. A substantial share of the differential impact of job loss on black and white middle‐class youth is explained by race differences in household wealth, long‐run measures of family income, and, especially, parental experience of long‐term unemployment.

Conclusions. These findings highlight the fragile economic foundation of the black middle class and suggest that intergenerational persistence of class status in this population may be highly dependent on the avoidance of common economic shocks.
An Experimental Test of the Effects of Fictional Framing on Attitudes*
Authors: Mulligan Kenneth , Habel Philip
Published: February 2011

Objectives. Most studies of media effects in political communication focus on news media. A smaller body of work extends theories of news media effects to fictional entertainment media. Just as news media engage in priming and agenda setting, these studies suggest that fictional media do as well. In this study, we deal with fictional media's framing of issues. No research has sought to test the effects of framing in explicitly fictional media on political opinions. We develop the outlines of a theory we call “fictional framing” and test it in an experiment.

Methods. Participants in our treatment group watched the film Cider House Rules. The movie frames the issue of abortion in the case of incest in a pro‐choice way, and frames morality in terms of following one's own conscience.

Results. The film influenced opinions in ways consistent with the framing of these issues.

Conclusions. Since abortion opinions and moral values tend to be entrenched, we consider this a strong first test of the effects of fictional framing.
Normative Collective Behavior in The Station Building Fire*
Authors: Aguirre B. E. , Torres Manuel R. , Gill Kimberly B. , Lawrence Hotchkiss H.
Published: February 2011

Objective. This article offers a test of the normative explanation of collective behavior by examining the fire at the Station nightclub in Rhode Island that killed 100 and injured nearly 200 persons.

Methods. Information on all persons at the club comes from content analysis of documents from the Rhode Island Police Department, the Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General, and The Providence Journal. We use negative binomial regression to test hypotheses about the effects of group‐level predictors of the counts of dead and injured in 179 groups at the nightclub.

Results. Results indicate that group‐level factors such as distance of group members at the start of the fire, the number of intimate relations among them, the extent to which they had visited the nightclub prior to the incident, and the average length of the evacuation route they used predict counts of injured and dead. The research also looks at what behavioral differences exist between survivors and victims, ascertains the existence of role extension among employees of the nightclub, and provides support for the affirmation that dangerous contexts negate the protective influence of intimate relations in groups.

Conclusion. We argue for the abandonment of current emphasis on irrationality and herd‐like imitative behavior in studies of evacuation from structural fires in buildings and for the inclusion of group‐level processes in social psychological explanations of these incidents.
The Personal Costs of Subprime Lending and the Foreclosure Crisis: A Matter of Trust, Insecurity, and Institutional Deception*
Authors: Ross Lauren M. , Squires Gregory D.
Published: February 2011

Objective. Research on widespread loan failures suggests that many of the mortgage loans that were made since 2000 were of a deceptive or predatory nature. This study explores the experiences and sentiments of those who are at risk of foreclosure within a broader framework of trust, individualization, and ontological security.

Methods. Interviews examine families' lending experience and how they have coped with their personal troubles that resulted from their housing crisis.

Results. As many of these loans were of a deceptive or predatory nature, individuals are likely to reflect on the psychological consequences of their predicament. Although these findings suggest that these individuals have lost trust in the housing market, many have internalized their situation as a personal failure. In addition, feelings of anxiety, stress, insecurity, and uncertainty have come to characterize their experiences.

Conclusions. This research calls for policy recommendations that seek to restore confidence and to ensure greater consumer protection in financial markets.
Pulling Toward or Pulling Away: Deliberation, Disagreement, and Opinion Extremity in Political Participation*
Authors: Wojcieszak Magdalena
Published: February 2011

Objective. Evidence supports two somewhat contradictory notions: deliberation is to encourage engagement, but disagreement may decrease participation. This study aims to provide a common denominator in the debate. It distinguishes between deliberation and political disagreement that emerges during deliberation to test which factors advance or thwart participatory goals. This study also accounts for opinion extremity, which may moderate the tested relationships.

Methods. This study draws on quasi‐experimental data from participants in structured, moderated, and heterogeneous face‐to‐face deliberations on sexual minority rights in Poland (N=181).

Results. Relative to the pretest, deliberation discouraged moderates from active engagement and pulled them away from communicative participation. As predicted, extreme participants who perceived high disagreement intended to be more active than their counterparts in like‐minded groups.

Conclusions. Research on deliberative versus participatory democracy should differentiate between deliberation and political disagreement as well as account for individual characteristics that affect responses to deliberation and disagreement. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Party Control, Policy Reforms, and the Impact on Health Insurance Coverage in the U.S. States*
Authors: Cummins Jeff
Published: February 2011

Objectives. One of the major policy concerns at the federal and state level is the rising number of individuals without health insurance. The purpose of this article is to investigate whether party control of government and various state reforms impact the percentage of the state population without health insurance.

Methods. Using data from 1987–2007, I empirically examine whether party control and five state policy reforms reduce the uninsured population.

Results. The results show that Republicans are more effective than Democrats at the state level at reducing insurance gaps and that three of five policy reforms explored appear to significantly expand insurance coverage.

Conclusions. The results provide valuable insight into which components of health‐care reform at the national level may help address the health insurance problem.
Electoral Support for Community Growth Management Policy*
Authors: Hawkins Christopher
Published: February 2011

Objectives. This study seeks to explain the variation in voter support for growth management policy. Interest group theory of local politics and property rights is used as a theoretical framework to explore how competing pro‐growth and anti‐growth interests influence the level of electoral support at the ballot box.

Methods. Survey data collected from local planning officials in Massachusetts are analyzed using a two‐stage Heckman selection model.

Results. The results indicate that development competition has a negative effect and controversy over development a positive effect on the probability of a community placing growth management policy on the local ballot. The analysis further indicates that environmental interests and suburban communities have a positive influence on the percentage of votes cast in favor of conservation‐oriented growth management policy. Neighborhood‐based interests, on the other hand, have a negative influence on voter support.

Conclusions. The findings suggest that compared to the normal legislative process, ballot‐box voting allows anti‐growth and localized interests the opportunity to craft proposals and then mobilize support for policy changes.
Strategic Market Entry Project
Authors: Ferguson William L. , Ferguson Tamela D.
Published: February 2011

Abstract

Successful risk management is critical to top level decision makers in any organization, involving fundamental strategic policy and planning to identify and allocate scarce resources to projects or activities that generate sustainable competitive advantage and maximize available long‐term growth opportunities, or even survival. This article describes a flexible group project wherein students of risk management and insurance (RMI) may gain additional exposure and experience with applications of fundamental strategic management theory in the context of their particular RMI major coursework. The Project may be a useful tool in helping RMI students further develop their research and presentation skills, as well as enhance critical strategic decision making; exposure to cultural, regional or globalization issues; application of fundamental strategic management concepts; and knowledge of current events. While this Project was developed primarily for RMI students, students across business disciplines also may benefit from participation.
Minimizing the Cost of Risk With Simulation Optimization Technique
Authors: Lei Yu
Published: February 2011

Abstract

For risk managers, one overarching goal is to help their organizations maximize stakeholders’ value, which can be achieved by minimizing the cost of risk. Oftentimes such optimization decisions have to be made under uncertainty. This article presents a teaching note that demonstrates how to use simulation‐based software to run optimization involving uncertain factors. Specifically, a hypothetical example regarding workers’ compensation claims cost was created to provide a step‐by‐step instruction for conducting simulation optimization.
The social life of a “free” gift
Authors: VENKATESAN SOUMHYA
Published: February 2011

In this article, I continue the anthropological interest in gifting. I trace the story of a historical failed gift of a South Indian woven mat to Queen Elizabeth II, which, in later accounts was transformed into a successful gift. Identifying this mythical successful gift as a “free gift” (following Jacques Derrida) reveals the power of descriptions in making relations. I argue that the transformation of an unsuccessful gift into a mythical free gift is a product of magnification and supplementation, with concomitant effects on forms of sociality and personhood. I also explore the relationship between gifts and commodities through a focus on what might be termed “inalienable” commodities.
Corruption as power: Caste and the political imagination of the postcolonial state
Authors: WITSOE JEFFREY
Published: February 2011

In this article, I examine the ways in which a politics of caste empowerment that became central to democratic politics in much of north India in the early 1990s altered the ways in which the state was popularly imagined. Many people began to perceive state institutions as inherently corrupt sources of political patronage that, having long served to perpetuate upper‐caste dominance, could now be used in the same way by a new class of political leaders to empower lower‐caste groups. Within this context, corruption was tolerated, sometimes even celebrated, as a means to lower‐caste empowerment.
Internal transmigrants: A Dagomba diaspora
Authors: PELLOW DEBORAH
Published: February 2011

In this article, I focus on a tiny elite community of Dagomba from Ghana's Northern Region. These men (and a handful of women) were among the first to attend secondary school once it was established in the North. Highly visible professionals, these Dagomba are internal migrants, whose new world in Accra is socially and spatially vastly different from the old in the hometown area of Dagbon. Members of this diaspora are cosmopolitans, intermingling with new kinds of people and transforming ideas and practices, but, at the same time, they maintain complex social relationships with their home communities, serving as a bridge between home and host societies.
What is the impact of transnational migration on family life? Women's comparisons of internal and international migration in a small town in Ghana
Authors: COE CATI
Published: February 2011

Most scholarship on the effects of transnational migration on family life has argued that such migration results in profound shifts and dislocations in family practices and gender ideologies. Much of this work, however, has overlooked processes of internal migration: How different is transnational migration from internal migration in its impact on family life? By comparing families of transnational migrants with those of internal migrants in a small town in Ghana, I explore the effect of place and distance—as generated by human activity—on the maintenance of parent–child and spousal relations. I conclude that transnational migration exacerbates conflicts that exist in families unaffected by transnational migrations.
Quoting Mario Juruna: Linguistic imagery and the transformation of indigenous voice in the Brazilian print press
Authors: GRAHAM LAURA R.
Published: February 2011

In this article, I reveal the textual mechanisms that influential news editors employed to manipulate popular understandings of Mario Juruna, a Xavante leader who played an important role in advancing democracy during Brazil's military dictatorship and became the first Indian elected to national office. I argue that editors used the implicit messages of represented language to initiate shifts in the public's perception of the Xavante leader and thereby to change its opinion of him. Juruna's case illustrates that linguistic resources are powerful tools that hegemonic institutions, such as the press, and other dominant parties may employ to advance their own interests and influence public opinion on matters of political and social import.
Pregnancy and live birth from nonsurgical transfer of in vivo‐ and in vitro ‐produced blastocysts in the rhesus monkey
Authors: Wolfgang Michael J. , Eisele Stephen G. , Knowles Lisa , Browne Melissa A. , Schotzko Michele L. , Golos Thaddeus G.
Published: February 2011

Abstract: Embryo transfer in the rhesus monkey has been historically limited to transfer of cleavage stage embryos. In order to allow genetic manipulation of rhesus embryos in vitro, without using invasive surgical techniques, it is important to explore the transfer of morula and blastocyst stage embryos. Embryos were produced by in vitro fertilization from gonadotropin‐stimulated monkeys, or were obtained by nonsurgical uterine flushing of naturally mated or artificially inseminated females. Nonsurgical transfer was accomplished by inserting a metal guide through the cervix into the uterus, after which a hollow cell sampler was inserted over the guide. The guide was removed and a catheter was inserted containing one to five embryos. Several pregnancies resulted from in vitro‐ and in vivo ‐derived blastocysts, and two pregnancies were carried to term resulting in one live birth. Blood samples were collected regularly to monitor plasma levels of chorionic gonadotropin, luteinizing hormone, and progesterone. The recipients received progesterone as a subcutaneous implant or daily injections from the day of transfer. The approach described in this study provides the opportunity to explore transgenic and chimeric models in the monkey by the development of noninvasive methods to transfer late‐stage embryos that have been manipulated in vitro.
Changes in blood chemistry and hematology variables during aging in captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Smucny Darlene A. , Allison David B. , Ingram Donald K. , Roth George S. , Kemnitz Joseph W. , Kohama Steven G. , Lane Mark A.
Published: February 2011

Abstract: Identifying changes with age in physiological variables of captive nonhuman primates will aid in the proper treatment and clinical diagnosis of these animals, as well as enhance our understanding of nonhuman primate models for human aging. Information for 33 physiological variables was obtained from the Primate Aging Database, a multi‐centered database being developed for clinical and research use. Using multiple regression analyses, we investigated the relationship of age to hematological variables, blood chemistry and body weight in 345 captive rhesus monkeys (age range 7–30 years) from three different primate research facilities. The analyses revealed that 15 of these variables show a significant relationship with chronological age and are altered in older as compared with adult animals. Here we present the first phase of a project that will: a) identify changes with age in physiological variables among adult captive rhesus macaques; and b) characterize normative values for the aging rhesus population.
Age changes in plasma IGF‐1 concentration in free‐ranging Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata)
Authors: Suzuki Juri , Ishida Takafumi
Published: February 2011

Abstract: To obtain fundamental data on the endocrine background for the wild Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata) growth profiles, we have measured plasma insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) concentrations of free‐ranging and open‐enclosed Japanese macaques from five different regions in their habitat. General features of the IGF‐1 levels in those troops were: 1) an age‐dependent increase in the young macaques and 2) distinctively higher values among several adult females. The age changes in IGF‐1 levels during the adolescent period in the free‐ranging Japanese macaques were similar to those in the caged Japanese macaques.
Comparison of muscle and tendon stiffness, jumping ability muscle strength and fatigue in the plantar flexors
Authors: Svantesson U. , Carlsson U. , Takahashi H. , Thomée R. , Grimby G.
Published: February 2011

Svantesson U, Carlsson U, Takahashi H, Thomée R, Grimby G. Comparison of muscle and tendon stiffness, jumping ability, muscle strength and fatigue in the plantar flexors.

An isokinetic dynamometer was used to measure plantar flexion muscle strength at 60°/s and 200°/s in 10 healthy young men (mean age 25 years). Muscle and tendon stiffnesses were determined on the dynamometer by the use of electrical stimulation and passive stretch (200°/s). Differences in jumping heights between squat and counter‐movement jumps were calculated from flight times. The number of heel‐rises performed until exhaustion, standing on one leg, were counted. Stepwise regression analysis showed that differences in jumping height increased with lower muscle strength and with higher muscle and tendon stiffnesses, indicating that elastic components may be of more importance in persons with lower muscle strength. The number of heel‐rises was negatively dependant on tendon stiffness, indicating that increased stiffness may enhance the development of fatigue.
Isokinetic knee extensor strength and functional performance in healthy female soccer players
Authors: östenberg A. , Roos E. , Ekdah C. , Roos H.
Published: February 2011

östenberg A, Roos E, Ekdahl C, Roos H. Isokinetic knee extensor strength and functional performance in healthy female soccer players.

The aims of this study were to determine the relationship between isokinetic knee extensor muscle strength at 60°/s and 180°/s and five functional performance tests (one‐leg‐hop, triple‐jump, vertical‐jump, one‐leg‐rising and square‐hop), to determine the relationship between the five different functional performance tests and to present normative data and limb symmetry index concerning healthy female soccer players. In total 101 female soccer players ([Text Missing]X=20.3 years) were tested. A limb symmetry index, using weak/strong leg, varied from 83.9 to 96.3 in the tests. Between the functional performance tests there were in general correlations of r=0.4‐0.8 (P<0.001). A correlation of r=0.77 (P<0.001) was obtained between one‐leg‐hop and triple‐jump. No differences were found between the right and the left leg or the dominant and the non‐dominant leg. Using linear regression models corrected for body weight, height and age, there were low correlations between the isokinetic strength measurements and the functional tests. It is not recommended using functional performance testing and isokinetic testing interchangeably.
Body composition and cross‐sectional areas of limb lean tissues in Olympic weight lifters
Authors: Kanehisa H. , Ikegawa S. , Fukunaga T.
Published: February 2011

Kanehisa H, Ikegawa S, Fukunaga T. Body composition and cross‐sectional areas of limb lean tissues in Olympic weight lifters.

The cross‐sectional area (CSAs) of bone and muscle tissues in the forearm, upper arm, lower leg, and thigh and body composition were determined by B‐mode ultrasound and underwater weighing methods, respectively, for 56 college Olympic weight lifters and 28 age‐matched non‐athletes to investigate the magnitude of musculoskeletal development in the strength‐trained athletes belonging to the weight‐classified sports event. The average value of fat‐free mass (FFM) for the weight lifters ranked 12.6 kg above the regression line of FFM on stature for untrained subjects. In the weight lifters, however, the percentage of fat mass to body mass was also highly correlated to body mass index. Bone and muscle CSAs in every site were significantly larger in the weight lifter than in the untrained subjects with relative differences of 22 to 58% and 17 to 56%, respectively. Moreover, as a result of regression analysis for the mixed data from weight lifters and untrained subjects, significant correlation was found between bone and muscle CSAs in every site (r=0.620 to 0.791, P<0.05). The differences in lean (bone + muscle) CSA were still significant in all sites except for the lower leg even when the difference in body size was statistically controlled. The comparisons between the weight lifters and untrained subjects on the lean CSA ratios of site to site and muscle CSA ratios of flexors to extensors indicated that the weight lifters had achieved a high relative distribution of lean tissues in the arms and a dominant development in elbow and knee extensors. Thus, the present results suggested that participation in weight lifting exercises for a long period could increase bone CSA as well as muscle CSA, and induce in the participants a noticeable enlargement in given sites and muscle groups responsible for performing the Olympic lifts.
Isokinetic muscle strength after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: østerăs H. , Augestad L. B. , Tøndel S.
Published: February 2011

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the isokinetic muscle strength 6 months after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). In order to recommend full‐load come‐back in sport, sufficient muscle strength may be important. Ninety female elite team handball players (mean 24.1 years) were postoperatively tested with Biodex. The operated limb was compared with the contralateral limb: 82.2% had a hamstring strength of a minimum of 49.6 Nm, corresponding to at least 90% of the non‐operated limb, while only 12.2% fulfilled the recommended strength of 117.7 Nm for quadriceps femoris. Patients over 26 years showed significantly lower muscle strength in the operated limb than their younger counterparts. Increased focus on quadriceps femoris muscle strength during rehabilitation may improve the knee function faster after ACL reconstruction.
Objective factors affecting overall subjective evaluation of recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Muneta T. , Seklya I. , Ogiuchi T. , Yagishita K. , Yamamoto H. , Shinomiya K.
Published: February 2011

Muneta T, Sekiya I, Ogiuchi T, Yagishita K, Yamamoto H, Shinomiya K. Objective factors affecting overall subjective evaluation of recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

The goal of this prospective study was to determine how objective measurements affect the overall subjective evaluation of recovery after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and to evaluate the effects of graft material, residual instability and sporting activity on patient satisfaction. Ninety‐seven patients with unilateral ACL injuries whose ACL was reconstructed using either a multi‐strand semitendinosus (ST) graft or a central‐third bone‐patellar tendon‐bone (BTB) graft were followed for an average of 30 months. An “overall subjective recovery score” was derived from the patients' evaluation of function of the operated knee as a percentage of the unoperated knee. The mean overall subjective recovery score at follow‐up was 80% (range, 20% to 100%). This study strongly suggested that integrity of the knee extension mechanism, that is, good recovery of knee extension strength with achievement of full extension and no problems in the patellofemoral joint, is the most important factor in patient satisfaction after ACL reconstruction.
Effects of physical exercise on bone mass, balance skill and aerobic capacity in women and men with low bone mineral density, after one year of training ‐ a prospective study
Authors: Kronhed A. C. Grahn , Möller M.
Published: February 2011

Grahn Kronhed AC, Möller M. Effects of physical exercise on bone mass, balance skill and aerobic capacity in women and men with low bone mineral density, after one year of training ‐ a prospective study.

Vadstena is a small community in the county of östergötland, Sweden, where a project began in 1989 to prevent osteoporosis and to lower the expected incidence of osteoporotic fractures. Persons aged 40–70 years who had a low bone mineral density (BMD) value at screening of the distal radius by single‐photon absorptiometry (SPA) were invited to participate in a training study during one year. The definition of low BMD was a densitometry value below −1 SD (standard deviation) from a sex‐ and age‐specific reference value (z‐score). Fifteeen persons wanted to exercise in a group and 15 persons wanted to become a control group. All participants answered a questionnaire about lifestyle, occupation, diseases, medication and heredity. Clinical tests were made regarding mobility of the joints and muscles, balance and physical fitness. BMD for the hip and the lumbar spine were assessed by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) before and after the investigation period. The training programme was carried out for 60 min twice a week during one year and had the intention to improve bone mass, muscle strength and flexibility, balance skill and aerobic capacity. After the training period there was a significant increase in BMD at the greater trochanter (P<0.01), in balance skill (standing on one leg with closed eyes and “ski step“‐test) (P<0.05) and in oxygen uptake capacity (P<0.05) in the exercise group. In the control group, there was a significant increase in BMD at the lumbar spine (P<0.05). However, these results should be judged with caution because several participants were over the age of 60, and at that age degenerative changes in the lumbar spine may increase to a greater or lesser extent. Regular weight‐bearing exercises during one year seem to influence BMD at the greater trochanter in a training group comprising both women and men. However, our study was small in number and further training studies are needed to assess the effect of weight‐bearing training on bone mass in different sex‐ and age‐specific groups.
Prediction of physical fitness and physical activity level in adulthood by physical performance and physical activity in adolescence ‐ An 18‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Barnekow‐Bergkvist M. , Hedberg G. , Janlert U. , Jansson E.
Published: February 2011

Barnekow‐Bergkvist M, Hedberg G, Janlert U, Jansson E. Prediction of physical fitness and physical activity level in adulthood by physical performance and physical activity in adolescence ‐ An 18‐year follow‐up study.

The aim of the study was to investigate relationships between physical fitness and self‐reported physical activity in adulthood and to what extent the level of physical fitness and leisure‐time physical activity in adulthood can be explained by anthropometric measures, physical performance, physical activity, attitudes to sports activities and socio‐demographic characteristics at the age of 16. A group of 157 men and 121 women was tested at the ages of 16 and 34 by means of questionnaires and fitness tests. Physically active men and women had higher estimated VO2 max and performed better in curl ups and bench press than those who were inactive. Performance in physical tests, height, weight and physical activity at the age of 16 contributed best to explain adult physical performance and physical activity. The magnitude of explanation varied between 10% (9‐min run test) and 56% (bench press test); it was in general lower in the men than in the women. The various fitness tests and physical activity were explained by different predictors and the predictors also differed between men and women. The findings about attitudes to sports and socio‐demographic factors at a young age that influence adult physical activity habits and fitness are very complex and further research is required to identify specific inactivity risks.
Molecular Mechanism of Co‐translational Protein Targeting by the Signal Recognition Particle
Authors: Saraogi Ishu , Shan Shu‐ou
Published: February 2011

The signal recognition particle (SRP) is a key component of the cellular machinery that couples the ongoing synthesis of proteins to their proper localization, and has often served as a paradigm for understanding the molecular basis of protein localization within the cell. The SRP pathway exemplifies several key molecular events required for protein targeting to cellular membranes: the specific recognition of signal sequences on cargo proteins, the efficient delivery of cargo to the target membrane, the productive unloading of cargo to the translocation machinery and the precise spatial and temporal coordination of these molecular events. Here we highlight recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this pathway, and discuss new questions raised by these findings.
Sed4p Stimulates Sar1p GTP Hydrolysis and Promotes Limited Coat Disassembly
Authors: Kodera Chie , Yorimitsu Tomohiro , Nakano Akihiko , Sato Ken
Published: February 2011

The coat protein complex II (COPII) generates transport vesicles that mediate protein export from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The first step of COPII vesicle formation involves conversion of Sar1p‐GDP to Sar1p‐GTP by guanine‐nucleotide‐exchange factor (GEF) Sec12p. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Sed4p is a structural homolog of Sec12p, but no GEF activity toward Sar1p has been found. Although the role of Sed4p in COPII vesicle formation is implied by the genetic interaction with SAR1, the molecular basis by which Sed4p contributes to this process is unclear. This study showed that the cytoplasmic domain of Sed4p preferentially binds the nucleotide‐free form of Sar1p and that Sed4p binding stimulates both the intrinsic and Sec23p GTPase‐activating protein (GAP)‐accelerated GTPase activity of Sar1p. This stimulation of Sec23p GAP activity by Sed4p leads to accelerated dissociation of coat proteins from membranes. However, Sed4p binding to Sar1p occurs only when cargo is not associated with Sar1p. On the basis of these findings, Sed4p appears to accelerate the dissociation of the Sec23/24p coat from the membrane, but the effect is limited to Sar1p molecules that do not capture cargo protein. We speculate that this restricted coat disassembly may contribute to the concentration of specific cargo molecules into the COPII vesicles.
Update on cosmeceuticals
Authors: Kerscher Martina , Buntrock Heike
Published: February 2011

As youth and perception of beauty are considered to be of great importance, an increasing number of new cosmeceuticals have been developed in recent years. This article will briefly present the problems of distinguishing cosmetics, cosmeceuticals or drugs and describe important new developments in raw materials, carrier systems and ingredients from the dermatological point of view. Especially active ingredients against skin‐aging, here in particular antioxidants and cell regulators, are reviewed. Important parameters for the quality of cosmetics and cosmeceuticals are evidence‐based in‐vivo and in‐vitro efficacy as well as scientifically proven wanted and unwanted effects.
Relative Value Scales and Auto Repair Price Fixing
Authors: EMERY DONALD R. , PATTON WESLEY E.
Published: February 2011

The Federal Trade Commission has voted unanimously to accept judgments that require discontinuance of the preparation, publication, circulation and use of relative value scales due to their potential in price fixing. Thus far these judgments have been limited to the health care industry, but this approach to price fixing has significance for many areas of business, especially the auto repair industry. This study explores the extent to which relative value scales (flat rate manuals) are used in estimating prices for auto repairs, and investigates whether or not price fixing exists for quoted prices, repair times, labor rates, or the ratio between the quoted price for one repair procedure and another.
Declining Competition in Food Retailing: An Opportunity for Consumer Food Cooperatives?
Authors: COTTERILL RONALD W.
Published: February 2011

Food cooperatives have become more popular among consumers during the past decade. Although consumers can organize cooperatives for several reasons, economic factors may be more important than indicated by previous research. Specifically, the recent growth in consumer food cooperatives may be associated with declining competition in local food markets. This article reports recent research results on market structure and performance by SMSA that address this hypothesis.
An Analysis of the Acquisition of Some Consumer Competencies Among Adolescents
Authors: MOSCHIS GEORGE P. , MOORE ROY L.
Published: February 2011

Recent public policy discussions have focused on the role and influences of television, school, and family in teaching young people various desirable and undesirable consumer‐related cognitions and behaviors. This research provides a theoretical and empirical basis useful in resolving such issues. The study examined the influences of television, family, school and peers on the acquisition of specific consumer skills that contribute to the individual's competency and proficiency as a consumer in the marketplace.
A Community Survey of Purchase Experiences of Older Consumers
Authors: FRIEDMAN MONROE P. , WASSERMAN IRA M.
Published: February 2011

A telephone survey was conducted which examined recent purchase experiences for 282 older consumers residing in a midwestern academic community. The types of purchases studied were eyeglasses, funeral services, hearing aids, home appliance repair services, home repair services, and nursing home care. Generally high satisfaction levels were reported for these purchases. A tendency on the part of the respondents to draw upon past knowledge and experience in making their purchase decisions was found. A procedural caution is noted in the interpretation of social survey data on local consumer services.
Unavailability and Mispricing of Advertised Specials: The Food Shopper's Knowledge, Experience and Response
Authors: WILKINSON J. B. , MASON J. BARRY
Published: February 2011

Unavailability and mispricing of advertised specials has been under FTC regulation for a number of years. Despite FTC trade regulation rules a large proportion of the shoppers surveyed in this study recalled a recent experience with product unavailability or overpricing. They were, moreover, surprisingly docile when confronted with this problem even though most were quite knowledgeable about regulations covering it. It appears that a store would have to be a major offender before consumers would shift their patronage elsewhere.
Recreation Vehicles: The Economics of Ownership
Authors: GREEN F. B.
Published: February 2011

A breakeven point analysis of selected modes of recreational travel in which the costs of ownership and travel use of representative self‐contained recreation vehicles are compared with the costs of lodging and travel by private automobile.
Comparative Advertising: A Reexamination of the Issues
Authors: SCAMMON DEBRA
Published: February 2011

The increasing use of comparative advertising in very diverse market situations demands the attention of public policy makers in the promulgation of regulations governing conditions of its use.
The impact of bisphosphonates on oral health: lessons from the past and opportunities for the future
Authors: Zavras Athanasios I.
Published: February 2011

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a challenging medical condition seen primarily among intravenous bisphosphonate (BP) users, is characterized by exposed necrotic bone that persists for more than eight weeks. While rare among people with osteoporosis treated with oral BPs, ONJ has captured the public's attention and caused significant distress. For many, the risk‐benefit scale has conceptually changed, tipping steeply toward risk, while for others the benefit of increased bone mass still outweighs the possibility of ONJ. While more than seven years have passed since the first cases were published, the scientific and medical communities are not yet ready to address with certainty the issue of causal inference, nor do they have any concrete recommendations for risk assessment or management of ONJ. Equally important, the dental literature has been skewed by the perceived risk associated with prolonged use of BPs and has neglected to explore how the antiosteoclastic activity of BPs may be utilized to improve dental outcomes. This article reviews critically the current state of knowledge about the impact of bisphosphonates on oral health. Using the principles of epidemiology, the article identifies scientific gains, research challenges, and future research opportunities on the topic.
Influence of the Process, Season, and Origin on Volatile Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Juniperus phoenicea L. Leaves Essential Oils
Authors: Ennajar Monia , Afloulous Samia , Romdhane Mehrez , Ibrahim Hany , Cazaux Sylvie , Abderraba Manef , Raies Aly , Bouajila Jalloul
Published: February 2011

Abstract:  Essential oils of Juniperus phoenicea L. leaves cultivated in 3 regions, Korbos, Matmata, and Tabarka of Tunisia were obtained by hydrodistillation (HD), steam distillation (SD), and Soxhlet (SH) extraction methods. The essential oils were analyzed and quantified by capillary gas chromatography using flame ionization detection (GC‐FID) and mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). The highest yield was observed in HD process (1.12%). Tabarka essential oil provided the best yield 0.79% compared to other regions. December month SD essential oil was the highest in oxygenated monoterpenes (52.7%). Nevertheless, SH essential oil showed a higher content in sesquitepenes hydrocarbons (64.5%). α‐Terpinol (25.5%) was the main oxygenated component in Matmata juniper essential oil, extracted by SD. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of essential oils was evaluated using ABTS assays. The strongest antioxidant activity (IC50= 22.6 ± 0.7 mg/L) was obtained by the Matmata (October 2007) SD essential oil.
Bactericidal Action of Binary and Ternary Mixtures of Carvacrol, Thymol, and Eugenol against Listeria innocua
Authors: García‐García Rebeca , López‐Malo Aurelio , Palou Enrique
Published: February 2011

Abstract:  The bactericidal effect of 3 natural agents (carvacrol, thymol, and eugenol) was evaluated as well as their binary and ternary mixtures on Listeria innocua inactivation in liquid model systems. Minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) of these agents were determined, and then binary and ternary mixtures were evaluated. Culture media were inoculated with L. innocua and incubated for 72 h at 35 °C. Turbidity of studied systems were determined every 24 h. The most effective individual antimicrobial agent was carvacrol, followed by thymol and then eugenol with MBCs of 150, 250, and 450 mg kg−1, respectively. It was observed that the most effective binary mixture was 75 mg kg−1 carvacrol and 62.5 mg kg−1 thymol. Furthermore, the ternary mixture carvacrol–thymol–eugenol in concentrations of 75, 31.25, and 56.25 mg kg−1, correspondingly, was the most effective for L. innocua inactivation. Several binary and ternary mixtures of these 3 natural antimicrobial agents worked adequately to inactivate L. innocua.