bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strength Degradation due to Fatigue in Fiber Dominated Glass/Epoxy Composites: A Statistical Approach
Authors: Passipoularidis V.A. , Philippidis T.P.
Published: February 2009

The performance of different residual strength theories for composites subjected to fatigue loading is discussed in this article. Especially, the probabilistic aspects of strength degradation predictions are emphasized, with respect to the reliability levels defined using different approaches. A statistical model, using the `Strength-Life Equal Rank Assumption' (SLERA), is introduced and is shown to yield robust and accurate reliability bounds for residual strength after fatigue; this holds true even when used in conjunction with simple degradation concepts. Theoretical predictions are corroborated satisfactorily by experimental results from a comprehensive test program on [0]4 glass/epoxy composite laminates used in manufacturing of large, contemporary wind turbine rotor blades. It is shown that the use of complicated strength degradation theories requiring large experimental data sets for implementation, yields more accurate predictions than simple models requiring limited experimental effort. Nevertheless, the linear strength degradation model by Broutman and Sahu [1] performs satisfactorily, offering consistent predictions on the safe side and constitutes a strong candidate for engineering design applications.
Direct Fluorination of Twaron Fiber and Preparation of PP/Twaron Fiber Composites Using MA-g-PP as a Compatibilizer
Authors: Maity J. , Jacob C. , Alam S. , Singh R.P.
Published: February 2009

Chemical treatment of synthetic reinforcements can enhance their adhesion to polymer matrices. This work reports the effects of different treatments on the fiber—matrix compatibility in terms of surface energy, mechanical, and thermal properties of composites. The PP composites containing 0.625—1.25 wt% of Twaron fibers (non-fluorinated and fluorinated fiber) were prepared by solution casting process. The treatment effects on the fibers and matrix have been characterized by infrared spectroscopy. The tensile properties of the untreated and treated composites were determined as a function of fiber loading. Tensile strength and Young's modulus increased with employment of the compatibilizers due to the better adhesion between the fiber and the matrix. The maximum improvement in the mechanical properties was obtained for the fluorine-treated fiber composites. The interfacial interactions improved the fiber compatibility, mechanical properties of composites. Morphological studies demonstrated that better adhesion between the fiber and the matrix was achieved especially for the fluorine-treated composites containing PP-g-MA as compatibilizers. The dynamic contact angle techniques have been used to determine the surface energy values.
Retrieval of Simple Addition Facts
Authors: Hopkins Sarah , Egeberg Helen
Published: February 2009

There exists a substantial number of studies that have identified a subset of low-achieving mathematics students who do not develop a reliance on retrieval for simple addition but who continue to use a counting strategy to solve these problems. There are few studies, however, that have focused on how retrieval of simple addition facts may be improved. This study employed a combined methodological approach to examine the effect extended practice had on increasing a reliance on retrieval for simple addition. An intervention aimed at improving the efficiency of extended practice was also piloted. Although most students improved with extended practice, the extent of improvement was not practical for all students and the intervention did not generally improve the effectiveness of extended practice. The findings emphasize the critical importance of continuing such research and draw attention to the complexities involved in addressing retrieval difficulties for simple addition.
US Aid Allocation: The Nexus of Human Rights, Democracy, and Development
Authors: Demirel-Pegg Tijen , Moskowitz James
Published: February 2009

Respect for human rights is one of several factors influencing US aid allocation decisions. Whereas previous research identifies human rights practices as being of secondary importance, it typically does not explore whether there is a more complicated relationship between human rights practices and US aid allocation. The authors argue that the impact of human rights varies at different levels of democracy and economic development. Employing data on 151 countries from 1977 to 2004, this study also investigates whether there has been an increase in the impact of human rights practices since the end of the Cold War. The results of the analysis show that during the Cold War, economic development was the prevailing factor in decisions about whether to allocate US aid. In the post-Cold War era, human rights practices are one among several significant variables, albeit exerting a generally negative impact. These results indicate that shifts in the international environment have, in fact, altered the determinants of US foreign aid. The authors further demonstrate that after the Cold War, countries with low economic development and transitioning regimes are subject to diminished levels of accountability for their human rights practices, while aid allocations to autocratic regimes follow the logic of promoting relatively higher human rights standards.
When Are Democratic Friends Unreliable? The Unilateral Withdrawal of Troops from the `Coalition of the Willing'
Authors: Tago Atsushi
Published: February 2009

Why do some democracies break their security commitments whereas others do not? This study proposes a research strategy to answer the question by analyzing the timing of unilateral exits from a coalition military operation. Coalition participants typically do not exit until a military mission has been accomplished. However, in the case of the US-led coalition occupying Iraq since May 2003, 16 states have unilaterally withdrawn their armed forces. Despite the danger such defections may cause to the relationship of these states with the USA, why and when do they exit? The author creates a dataset with a state-month unit of analysis that contains information on 37 partner states and applies a Cox proportional hazard model. The study finds that the occurrence of a national election serves as a strong driving force to accelerate an exit from the coalition. An incumbent leader who faces a challenger who opposes military contributions in Iraq would reverse the policy to support the USA and exit the coalition to win an election, even at the risk of damaging a bilateral relationship with the USA. A change in leadership after an election, on the other hand, failed to be a predictor of the timing of defection. Furthermore, results reveal that the division of power within the government and the constitutional rules that enable significant parliamentary control over executive decisions to use force neither delay nor accelerate the timing of withdrawal. To understand the conditions under which democracies break their security commitments, more attention should be paid to election cycles than to a change in leadership and to types of democratic institutional and constitutional arrangements.
Participation in Atrocities Among Israeli Soldiers During the First Intifada: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Elizur Yoel , Yishay-Krien Nuphar
Published: February 2009

Atrocities committed by soldiers are a common occurrence that harms not only victims, but also perpetrators, armies, and nations. However, censorship, limited access to information, and the tendency to deny one's evil and project it onto the other impede investigation into how ordinary soldiers cross the line between legitimate fighting and excessive violence. This study examined processes associated with Israeli soldiers' brutal behaviors during the first Intifada. Participants were 21 male combat veterans of two companies stationed in Gaza whose sampling reflected diversity in Israeli society and a wide range of behaviors in the Intifada. Situational factors and social—psychological processes (i.e. modeling, moral disengagement, dehumanization, and deindividuation) were powerful inducers of brutality. The data also showed individual differences in violence, inner—outer directedness, and moral standards. Consequently, five subgroups were identified: Callous/Impulsive, Ideologically Violent, Followers, Restrained, and Incorruptible. The use of these categories to examine the soldiers' unfolding experience over time generated a unique perspective into two less studied dynamics. The first was a synergistic interaction between dispositional and situational factors, manifested in level of brutality and differential subgroup stability of violent behaviors over time. The second was the company as a family-like primary social system that developed inner culture and structural patterns characterized by alignments and social power. Initially, there evolved a culture of brutality with an associated leadership that escalated the violence. A later clash with soldiers who adhered to the army's professional culture transformed the company's culture and structure. This analysis has implications for preventive measures, including the development of morally committed and resolute leadership at both lower and higher echelons of command.
`I was a stranger, and ye took me not in': Deus ludens and theology of hospitality in Lars von Trier's Dogville
Authors: Bradatan Costica
Published: February 2009

In this article I propose an interpretation of Lars von Trier's Dogville (2003) as a theological and philosophical film. Dogville occasions a series of theological—philosophical reflections on grave topics such as hospitality, homelessness, home, alienation, divine trials and Deus ludens. In my interpretation Dogville's film narrative is, allegorically, about a homeless divinity that, in the process of searching for shelter and hospitality, is putting humanity to the test. The character Grace is increasingly asserting herself as a cinematic metaphor for an ironic god. As the film narrative unfolds, this becomes increasingly evident, culminating in the final scenes, with their numerous visual and textual allusions to the Judgment Day. I will show that in Dogville both the narrative proper and the film's aesthetic vision are philosophically and theologically loaded in a significant way. I will also be discussing Dogville in the light of two biblical texts (Job and Matthew 25), and in relation to Dostoevsky's legend of the Grand Inquisitor in The Brothers Karamazov.
Development of a Diabetes Education Program for Youth With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Grey Margaret , Schreiner Barbara , Pyle Laura
Published: February 2009

Purpose The purpose of this article is to present the Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TOD2AY) study and a description of the implementation of the standard diabetes education (SDE) program.

Methods A total of 218 participants (one third of the eventual sample of 750) were initially enrolled in the study. To date, the mean age of participants was 14.3 + 2.1 years, with 63% being female. Families of study participants were largely low or middle income (more than half report family income <$35000) and about three-quarters were minority.

Results More than three-quarters (79%) of families achieved full mastery of the entire SDE program. Mastery required on average 5.5 + 1.3 sessions. In addition, 62% of the families were able to achieve mastery of the session topic in a single visit.

Conclusions In summary, the TOD2AY study SDE program fills the need for effective, engaging materials for youth and their families to use in mastering essential type 2 diabetes skills and knowledge.
Are Children With Type 1 Diabetes Consuming a Healthful Diet?
Authors: Rovner Alisha J. , Nansel Tonja R.
Published: February 2009

Purpose The purpose of this study is to review the literature on usual dietary intake in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and to discuss approaches to promote dietary change with potential efficacy.

Methods Search strategies included a MEDLINE search for English-language articles that estimated usual dietary intake in children with T1D and a screening of the reference lists from original studies. The keywords used were diet, dietary intake, nutrition, type 1 diabetes, children, adolescents, and youth. Studies were included if they were observational, contained a sample of children with T1D, and estimated usual dietary intake.

Results Nine studies fulfilled the criteria (6 US, 3 European). Of the 4 studies with a control group, 3 reported that both total fat and saturated fat intake were higher in the children with T1D. Six studies examined the percent of total calories from saturated fat; mean intake ranged from 11 to 15%, exceeding ADA recommendations (< 7%). Fruit, vegetable, and fiber intakes were low among children with T1D. No prior studies have addressed dietary change in this population. The behavior-change literature suggests that nutrition education alone is unlikely to be adequate, but that incorporation of behavioral approaches offers potential efficacy in promoting healthful dietary change.

Conclusions Children with T1D are not meeting dietary guidelines, and in some areas their diets are less healthful than children without diabetes. As these dietary behaviors may affect the risk of long-term complications, the incorporation of behavioral approaches promoting healthy eating into routine clinical practice is warranted.
A Pilot Study of Diabetes Education via Telemedicine in a Rural Underserved Community—Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Balamurugan Appathurai , Hall-Barrow Julie , Blevins Mary Alice , Brech Detri , Phillips Martha , Holley Elizabeth , Bittle Kim
Published: February 2009

Purpose Telemedicine technology may offer an avenue to implement diabetes self-management education (DSME) for people with diabetes in underserved rural communities. The continuous quality improvement process was used to identify the problem, collect and analyze data, and develop and implement a DSME program via telemedicine (DSME-T) in an underserved rural community.

Methods A pilot study was conducted in 2006, implementing a DSME-T utilizing facilities at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and a rural community hospital in Arkansas (Ozark Health, Inc). A total of 38 people were enrolled to receive DSME-T. Participant knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care practices were assessed before participants began the education program and after they had completed it. Also, select clinical measures (glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile, and urine microalbumin) were collected.

Results A total of 66% of participants (n = 25) completed the DSME-T program. A significantly greater proportion of participants demonstrated improved knowledge (39% vs 83%; P = .012), endorsed greater self-efficacy (54% vs 86%; P = .016), and reported more frequent self-care practices to manage their diabetes at the conclusion of the study period.

Conclusions The results of this pilot study suggest that DSME-T may offer opportunities for DSME among rural residents with diabetes. Plans are in place to explore the possibility of sustaining and expanding the program to other underserved rural communities.
Detailed Treatment Algorithms for Effective Nurse- and Pharmacist-Directed Diabetes Care
Authors: Davidson Mayer B.
Published: February 2009

The purpose of this article is to provide treatment algorithms proven to be effective in meeting the standards of care of the American Diabetes Association to nurses and pharmacists who are given the authority to make independent clinical decisions (under the overall supervision of a physician).
Universal Design in Diabetes Care An Idea Whose Time Has Come
Authors: Williams Ann S.
Published: February 2009

Purpose The purpose of this article is to introduce diabetes educators to the emerging concept of universal design (UD): the design of products, environments, and services to be used by persons with a wide range of abilities, without needing adaptation or specialized design.

Method Drawing from the use of the term universal design in a variety of types of writing, this article covers the definition of UD, the contrast of average-person design with UD, principles of UD, and implications for diabetes self-management education (DSME).

Summary Implications for DSME are (1) diabetes consumer medical devices (such as blood glucose meters and insulin pumps) can be designed using UD principles, with a goal of successful use by the largest number of persons possible, and (2) diabetes educators can use UD principles in the design of diabetes education programs to reach the largest number of learners possible without the need for special accommodations.

Conclusions Adoption of UD principles by designers of diabetes medical devices could benefit persons with disabilities, increase the potential market for the manufacturer, and have unexpected benefits for people of average abilities. Adoption of UD principles for DSME programs would not require a paradigm change because diabetes educators already do many activities that could contribute to UD of an education program. By replacing average-person design of DSME programs with UD, diabetes educators can promote full participation in DSME for individuals with the wide range of abilities normally present in target populations without the need for added adaptations or specialized design.
The Diabetes Literacy and Numeracy Education Toolkit (DLNET)
Authors: Wolff Kathleen , Cavanaugh Kerri , Malone Robb , Hawk Victoria , Gregory Becky Pratt , Davis Dianne , Wallston Kenneth , Rothman Russell L.
Published: February 2009

Purpose Diabetes self-management education is an important component of comprehensive diabetes care. Patients with low health literacy and numeracy may have difficulty translating information from traditional diabetes educational programs and materials into effective self-care.

Methods To address this potential barrier to successful diabetes teaching and counseling, the authors developed the Diabetes Literacy and Numeracy Education Toolkit (DLNET).

Conclusion The DLNET is composed of 24 interactive modules covering standard diabetes care topics that can be customized to individual patient needs and used by all members of the multidisciplinary diabetes care team. The material's content and formatting aims to improve the ease of use for diabetes patients with low literacy and numeracy by adhering to a lower text reading level, using illustrations for key concepts, and color-coding and other accommodations to guide patients through instructions for self-care. Individual sections of the DLNET may be provided to patients for initial teaching, as well as for reinforcement. Although designed for lower literacy and numeracy skills, the DLNET provides unique materials to facilitate diabetes education for all patients.
The Impact of Unfair Treatment on Depressive Mood: The Moderating Role of Self-Esteem Level and Self-Esteem Instability
Authors: Meier Laurenz L. , Semmer Norbert K. , Hupfeld Jörg
Published: February 2009

This research examines the moderating roles of self-esteem level and self-esteem instability in the relationship between perceived unfair treatment and depressive mood. Based on the assumption that unfairness is a threat to one's social standing and self-esteem, the authors proposed that individuals with highly fragile self-esteem (i.e., the combination of unstable and high self-esteem) react more strongly when experiencing unfair treatment. This hypothesis was tested in a real-world setting using cross-sectional and diary data of 101 employees. As expected, unfair treatment was related to depressive mood among individuals with unstable high self-esteem but not among individuals with stable high self-esteem. This pattern of results held for both cross-sectional and diary data. In contrast, unfairness was not related to depressive mood among individuals with unstable low self-esteem.
`People first: Probation officer perspectives on probation work' — A practitioner's response
Authors: Matthews Jon
Published: February 2009

This article is a response to Jill Annison, Tina Eadie and Charlotte Knight's article `People First: Probation officer perspectives on probation work' published in the September 2008 edition of Probation Journal. The authors compared three studies that explored the reasons why individuals chose probation as a career, the views and experiences of staff at a range of levels of experience, and the career trajectories of DipPS graduates. The article argued that individuals enter probation in order to work with people and that this element of the work continues to provide the most satisfaction for staff.
Reminiscing Television
Authors: Kortti Jukka , Mähönen Tuuli Anna
Published: February 2009

■ This article presents and discusses the methodological issues arising in a project on the advent, diffusion and integration of Finnish television over its 50-year history. The study uses oral history, in the form of written reminiscences, to explore the changing role of television in the life of Finns. This social historical study combines methods of ethnographic television audience studies and oral history studies. This kind of approach is rarely used in media ethnography. It raises questions around themes such as the importance of context, the nature of narratives and coding methods. This article also summarizes how the project's data and methodology have served to produce a third generation media history study. ■
Fertilization of Pinus pinea L. seedlings with a sewage sludge-based compost
Authors: Ribeiro Henrique M. , Vasconcelos Ernesto , Cabral Fernanda , Ribeiro Dina
Published: February 2009

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of a sewage sludge-based compost (SSC) on the growth and mineral composition of containerized Pinus pinea L. seedlings. In the first experiment, five different substrates were tested: four binary mixtures of SSC and peat (100% SSC, 75% SSC, 50% SSC and 25% SSC, by volume) without fertilization, and a control substrate (peat-based substrate + fertilizer). Seedlings growing in the 100% SSC substrate showed the lowest growth, a consequence of both the low water availability and the high electrical conductivity that made SSC unsuitable to be the only component of a growing-media for pine `seedlings'. The 50% SSC substrate presented physical and chemical properties similar to the control substrate and near the acceptable range for a growing-media. Moreover, no significant differences were found between growth of seedlings from treatment 50% SSC (without mineral fertilization) and seedlings from control treatment (with mineral fertilization). In the second experiment, a fertilization assay was performed with two substrates selected from the first experiment (50% SSC and control). The two substrates were fertilized with three levels of a macronutrient fertilizer (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g L —1) and two levels of a micronutrient fertilizer (0 and 0.4 g L—1 of fertilizer containing only micronutrients). Results obtained suggest that replacing 50% (by volume) of peat-based substrate by the sewage sludge-based compost allowed: maintenance of the commercial value of seedlings; reduction of the amount of peat used in the substrate; a need for only half the amount of macronutrient fertilizer applied in the basal fertilization; and omission of micronutrient fertilization.
Indicators to assess the recovery of natural resources contained in demolition waste
Authors: Roussat Nicolas , Méhu Jacques , Dujet Christiane
Published: February 2009

Demolition waste materials are one of the major industrial waste deposits in many countries and represent an important quantity of potential resources that are not exploited, because the major part of these wastes go to landfill. Indeed, recycling or recovery of demolition waste can reduce the need of primary natural resources. This article gives indicators and a method to analyse demolition waste management with regard to the use of resources contained in these wastes. Demolition wastes are characterized by their contents in energy and raw materials. This content is quantified on the basis of the sum of energy and raw materials necessary for the construction of the building considering the non-renewable character of materials contained in wastes. In fact, this content represents the environmental investment which was necessary to construct the building. An energy balance and a mass balance, with this concept of `raw material and energy' content, can allow a strategy of waste management to be determined in order to salvage the most important parts of energy and raw materials contained in demolition waste, and so identify the strategy which permits a maximum fraction of the initial environmental investment to be saved. Five waste management scenarios concerning building demolition were assessed with this method and these indicators, and the results are presented in this article.
Recycling of plastic waste by density separation: prospects for optimization
Authors: Gent Malcolm Richard , Menendez Mario , Toraño Javier , Diego Isidro
Published: February 2009

A review of existing industrial processing and results of alternative processing investigations for separating solid mixtures and specifically recycling plastic waste by density separation is presented. Media density separation is shown to be fundamental for separation and/or pre-concentration in the recycling of plastics. The current use of static media processes limits the capacity and size of material that can be treated commercially. Investigations have shown that the hydroscopic properties of plastics can be reduced to improve such separations. This indicates that an alternative processing method is required to increase the commercial recovery of recyclable plastics. Cylindroconical and cylindrical cyclone-type media separators, such as those used for processing coal, are reviewed and suggested as a potential substitute. Both have superior production capacities and are able to process a larger range in particle sizes treated. A summary of results of investigations with cyclone media devices for recycling plastics is presented.
Influence of Gas Species on Backdraft Probability Using a Diffusion Flame Limits Criterion
Authors: Pérez Jiménez Christian , Franssen Jean-Marc , Karlsson Bjorn
Published: February 2009

Backdraft is a limited-ventilation fire phenomenon closely linked to the unburnt gases accumulated in the fire compartment just before creating an opening that allows a new supply of oxygen to enter the compartment. The aim of this article is to help understanding the influence of gas species such as hydrocarbon CmHn, water, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and nitrogen on backdraft probability. The influence of increasing the number of moles of the above gas species as well as the number of atoms of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in the fuel composition is analyzed. For this purpose, a diffusion flame limit criterion based on Le Chatelier's rule is used. In order to verify the obtained results, validation with 41 backdraft experiments is carried out.
Political Blogs and Blogrolls in Canada
Authors: Koop Royce , Jansen Harold J.
Published: February 2009

Several theorists have entertained the possibility that the egalitarian nature of Internet-based discussion may facilitate meaningful democratic deliberative discussions amongst citizens. This article provides a preliminary empirical test of these claims by examining the extent to which blogs and blogroll communities act as forums for such deliberations. The analysis uses a dataset derived from a content analysis performed on blogs from three Canadian partisan blogrolls in October 2005. We perform three tests of the deliberative qualities of blog-based discussions: (a) whether discussion is characterized by equality of participation; (b) whether bloggers discuss substantive issues; and (c) whether bloggers engage constructively in discussions with political opponents. We find that this online discussion does exhibit some deliberative characteristics but that this discussion is often characterized by inequality of discussion, a focus on non-substantive issues, and unconstructive engagement between bloggers.
Dimensionality Analysis as a Computerized Tool for Strategic Planning in Policing and Security
Authors: Brunet James R. , Garson G. David
Published: February 2009

Multidimensional scaling is a useful addition to the toolkit of the crime or security analysts, made possible by the advent of desktop computing power. Three uses of this graphical statistical tool are as follows: (a) forming policy initiatives and making resource allocations; (b) analyzing terrorism threats and dynamics; and (c) performing structural analysis of performance data. Dimensionality analysis is compared with more commonly encountered techniques such as factor analysis, cluster analysis, and correspondence analysis, and their relative merits discussed. Data used to illustrate dimensionality analysis are drawn from the crime statistics on US cities, terrorism incidents in Israel, and performance indicators for American police departments, but the methods presented are broadly applicable to a wide variety of policing and security issues and the same principles apply to other forms of data.
A toxicological assessment of Athrixia phylicoides aqueous extract following sub-chronic ingestion in a rat model
Authors: Chellan N , De Beer D , Muller C , Joubert E , Louw J
Published: February 2009

Athrixia phylicoides is an aromatic, indigenous shrub used to brew “bush tea.” Surveys have shown that the consumption of bush tea is widespread and commercialization of the extract holds economic and developmental potential. Aqueous extracts of A. phylicoides are non-toxic to brine shrimp and renal cell lines; however, verification in a mammalian model is needed. In this study, daily ingestion of high doses of aqueous A. phylicoides extract by mature Wistar rats was tested for potential toxicity over a 3-month period. Three-month-old Wistar rats were randomized into a control group (receiving no extract) and three experimental groups receiving 30, 90, or 180 mg dried aqueous A. phylicoides extract/kg body mass/day. After 90 days of daily extract ingestion, blood and tissue were harvested. There was no morbidity or mortality during the study. Food and water intake, as well as body mass and stool production, were unaffected by the consumption of the extract. Urine production was increased in the 90 and 180 mg/kg groups suggesting that A. phylicoides is mildly diuretic. Serum alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, and urea levels were normal for all groups. Histopathology showed no signs of any extract induced toxicity in the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and other tissues studied.
Anticonvulsant activity of Nylandtia spinosa L. Dumont (Polygalaceae) aqueous and methanol leaf extracts in mice
Authors: Amabeoku GJ
Published: February 2009

Aqueous and methanol leaf extracts of Nylandtia spinosa L. Dumont (Polygalaceae) were evaluated for anticonvulsant activity against tonic seizures produced in mice by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), bicuculline, picrotoxin, and N-methyl-DL-aspartic acid (NMDLA). Aqueous leaf extract of N. spinosa (50–400 mg/kg, i.p.) and methanol extract (50–400 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly attenuated PTZ (95 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced tonic seizures. Doses of 400 mg/kg (i.p.) and 100–400 mg/kg (i.p.) of aqueous extract of N. spinosa significantly delayed the onset of tonic seizures elicited by bicuculline (35 mg/kg, i.p.) and picrotoxin (12 mg/kg, i.p.), respectively. Methanol extract (200–400 mg/kg, i.p.) and (50–400 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly delayed the onset of tonic seizures induced by bicuculline (35 mg/kg, i.p.) and picrotoxin (12 mg/kg, i.p.), respectively, whereas 400 mg/kg (i.p.) significantly reduced the incidence of picrotoxin (12 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced seizures. Both aqueous and methanol leaf extracts of N. spinosa did not affect NMDLA (400 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced tonic seizures. Phenobarbitone (12.5 mg/kg, i.p.) and diazepam (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) antagonized tonic seizures induced by PTZ (95 mg/kg, i.p.), bicuculline (35 mg/kg, i.p.), and picrotoxin (12 mg/kg, i.p.) but did not affect NMDLA (400 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced seizures. Phenytoin (30 mg/kg, i.p.) did not alter the tonic seizures produced by either PTZ (95 mg/kg, i.p.), bicuculline –2-(35 mg/kg, i.p.), or picrotoxin (12 mg/kg, i.p.). The results obtained indicate that both aqueous and methanol leaf extracts of N. spinosa possess anticonvulsant property, thus justifying the use of the plant by traditional medicine practitioners in the treatment of epilepsy. The relatively high LD50 of greater than 3600 mg/kg (p.o.) and 1780 mg/kg (i.p.) obtained with the aqueous extract suggest that the plant is relatively safe in mice. The phytochemical analysis carried out showed the presence of tannins, saponins, reducing sugars, alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpene steroids, and cardiac glycosides in the plant material.
Campus Newspaper Coverage of Varsity Sports
Authors: MacKay Steph , Dallaire Christine
Published: February 2009

This study examined the coverage of women's and men's varsity sport teams in the English- and French-language student newspapers at the University of Ottawa, Canada, during three academic years from 2004 to 2007. The analysis revealed unique findings, considering that previous research on campus print media had shown an enduring disparity of coverage featuring female athletes. In contrast, our descriptive statistics exposed few differences in the number or length of published articles and photographs of male and female athletes. In fact, female athletes tended to receive more coverage. Men's sports, however, were featured more often on the front page of the newspapers. A textual analysis of the coverage shows that sportswomen were not sexualized and were rarely trivialized. In general, rather than representing sportswomen as gendered subjects, the student-run newspapers discursively constructed them as `just athletes'.
Just a Few Rogues?
Authors: Scalia Vincenzo
Published: February 2009

Two people, a policeman and a football supporter, died in Italy in 2007 after clashes between police and football supporters. Italian public opinion asked for more repressive measures to fight football related violence. Both politicians and football clubs supported this view, thus blaming ultras, as Italian organized football supporters are called, for wrecking football. That does not acknowledge the place of ultras in Italian football culture. Ultras are organized groups with an independent subculture that enjoys the legitimacy of other football supporters. Their organization, their reputation, made them suitable for a role of intermediation between supporters, politics and clubs. As a consequence of this, both politicians and football clubs use ultras for their purposes.
Sexuality as a Structural Principle in Sport Participation
Authors: Elling Agnes , Janssens Jan
Published: February 2009

In this article we present the results of a Dutch study about sport participation among self-identified homo/bisexual men and women, compared to a matched group of heterosexual men and women. It is argued that quantitative research can further enrich the existing knowledge in the field of sport and sexuality, which is mainly based on qualitative studies from a poststructuralist perspective. Findings both challenge and confirm stereotypical images of sport involvement by gays and lesbians. The results show that sexual `mappings' of different sports spaces do not only exist cognitively, but influence the actual sporting biographies of men and women with different sexual identifications. Gay men are underrepresented in mainstream club sports and traditional `masculine' team sports and over-represented in commercially based fitness sports. However, most non-heterosexual women and men have discovered mainstream sports spaces where they can participate without being confronted too much with homonegativity and heteronormativity. Simultaneously, many are reluctant to join `counter spaces', like LGTB sports organizations and reflect a certain compliance with heteronormativity.
Knowledge, Power and Politics
Authors: Piggin Joe , Jackson Steven J. , Lewis Malcolm
Published: February 2009

This article analyses the sources of knowledge New Zealand sport and recreation policy-makers rely on when forming public policy. Specifically, utilizing a Foucauldian lens of governmentality, we consider how New Zealand sport and recreation policy is influenced by various sources of knowledge. Through analysis of official policy documents, media releases and interviews with senior New Zealand policy managers, we argue that despite claims of positivistic, `evidence-based' policy, writers draw on a wide range of knowledge sources. Thus, despite being governed by positivism, policy-makers themselves utilize other, multifarious sources of knowledge in order to construct national sport policy. We offer considerations for the future setting of such public policy, and in particular suggest the existing rationale for the formulation of public policy could be altered to acknowledge these wide ranging knowledges.
Dating Violence Among High School Students in Southeastern North Carolina
Authors: Kim-Godwin Yeoun Soo , Clements Carrie , McCuiston Ashley M. , Fox Jane A.
Published: February 2009

Adolescents are a high-risk group for dating violence. Using the Youth Risk Behavior Survey data, this study examined the associations among dating violence (including physical dating violence [PDV] and sexual dating violence [SDV]) and selected health risk behaviors among 375 and 372 high school students, in 2005 and 2007, respectively, in southeastern North Carolina. The findings indicate PDV increased slightly from 2005 (11.6%) to 2007 (12.5%), while SDV remained approximately the same (10.4% in 2005 and 10.3% in 2007). PDV was strongly associated with SDV among high school students in 2005 and 2007. Significant associations also exist among dating violence and sexual behavior, substance use, violence, psychological health, and unhealthy weight control. School nurses should be actively involved in promoting healthy lifestyles and healthy choices among high school students through interdisciplinary efforts with parents, teachers, school districts, and communities.
School Nurse Perspectives of Challenges and How They Perceive Success in Their Professional Nursing Roles
Authors: Smith Shirley G. , Firmin Michael W.
Published: February 2009

This is a phenomenological study of 25 school nurses employed in a large, urban school district in the midwestern section of the United States. In addition to school nursing, the participants also had professional work experience in other nursing specialties. Thematic analysis of the data focused on the challenges faced by the school nurses, their views of school nursing success, and elements of job satisfaction. Overall, the school nurses reported the positive aspects of school nursing outweigh the negative aspects of their jobs. Developmental changes were reported among the school nurses in this study as they reflected on how they perceived their nursing career over time and during different seasons of their lives.
A Dynamic Planning Approach for New Product Development
Authors: Luh Ding-Bang , Ko Yao-Tsung , Ma Chia-Hsiang
Published: February 2009

This paper presents a quantifying and reordering method for new product development based on the concurrent engineering concept. We propose to establish a fuzzy design structure matrix (FDSM) by quantifying the information flow of activity factors of new product development and employing the fuzzy clustering method. Utilizing the proposed partition and tearing algorithm to reorder matrixes, we can realize deeply the inner hierarchy workings of concurrent engineering in the new product development process. The purpose of this paper is to develop a dynamic planning method that is innovative, efficient and flexible for new product development by using the concurrent design concept and FDSM analysis. It ultimately helpful to designers and managers to grasp the interactive information flow between each of the activity factors for planning an optimum design process in new product development. One case study is employed to illustrate this method and the result validates that it can reduce the iterations of design process and shorten the product development time.
The Value of Organizational Structures
Authors: Linghua Kong  , Bhuiyan Nadia , Thomson Vincent
Published: February 2009

Mathematical models are developed using the maximum expected payoff method to determine the value of organizational structures. An information modeling approach is used to study the value added by lateral information sharing and intensity of interaction to a functional hierarchy for new product development (NPD). Similarly, a model is developed for the case of a functional hierarchy with cluster integration (grouping of functional units), which considers cluster size (number of projects times functional breadth) and the correlation of information that is exchanged between vertically organized functions. Model results are compared to industry data for NPD projects with good agreement.
Flax Lignan Complex Slows Down the Progression of Atherosclerosis in Hyperlipidemic Rabbits
Authors: Prasad Kailash
Published: February 2009

Flax lignan complex suppresses the development of hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis. However, it is not known whether flax lignan complex would slow down the progression of hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis. This study was carried out to determine whether flax lignan complex slows down the progression of already developed atherosclerosis, and whether this effect is associated with reductions in serum lipids and oxidative stress. The studies were conducted in 4 groups of rabbits: group I, regular diet (2 months); group II, 0.25% cholesterol diet (2 months); group III, 0.25% cholesterol diet (4 months); group IV, 0.25% cholesterol diet (2 months) followed by 0.25% cholesterol diet plus flax lignan complex (2 months). Serum lipids and oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde, antioxidant reserve, white blood cell chemiluminescence) were measured before and at monthly intervals thereafter on their respective diets. Aortas were removed at the end of the protocol for assessment of atherosclerosis and oxidative stress. Atherosclerosis in group II was associated with hyperlipidemia and increased oxidative stress. Significant areas of the aortic intimal surfaces from group II (37.76% + 7.96%), group III (76.6% + 9.04%), and group IV (52.95% + 10.29%) were covered with atherosclerotic plaques. Group IV rabbits had 40% more atherosclerotic lesions than group II but 31% fewer lesions than group III. The flax lignan complex—induced reduction in the progression of atherosclerosis was associated with reductions in oxidative stress. In conclusion, flax lignan complex was effective in slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis by 31%, and this effect was associated with a reduction in oxidative stress.
Do Early Childhood Interventions Prevent Child Maltreatment?
Authors: Reynolds Arthur J. , Mathieson Lindsay C. , Topitzes James W.
Published: February 2009

We reviewed the empirical evidence on whether early childhood primary prevention programs can reduce rates of child abuse and neglect. Fifteen studies of 14 programs for children ages birth to 5 years were completed from 1990 to 2007 and assessed impacts with methodological rigor. All but one of the programs intervened from birth to age 3 through home visits, parent education classes, or the provision of health services. The weighted average effect size of program participation was a 2.9 percentage-point reduction in maltreatment (6.6% vs. 9.5%), which is equivalent to a 31% reduction in the rate of maltreatment and a fifth of a standard deviation. Of the five programs showing significant reductions in substantiated rates of child maltreatment, three provide strong evidence of preventive effects. Only the Child-Parent Centers (CPCs) and the Nurse—Family Partnership (NFP) assessed longer term preventive effects. Common elements of these effective programs included implementation by professional staff, relatively high dosage and intensity, and comprehensiveness of scope. The major conclusion is that the evidence base for programs in early childhood to prevent child maltreatment remains relatively weak. To advance the field, more longer term studies of a variety of intervention models are needed.
An investigation of susceptibility loci in benign, aggressive and primary progressive multiple sclerosis in Northern Irish population
Authors: Gray OM , Abdeen H , McDonnell GV , Patterson CC , Graham CA , Hawkins SA
Published: February 2009

Objective

To investigate the possibility that susceptibility loci in multiple sclerosis (MS) have a role in determining the disease outcome in Northern Ireland population.

Background

The Genetic Analysis of Multiple Sclerosis in Europeans (GAMES) initiative and follow-up refined analysis identified 15 candidate susceptibility loci within the Northern Irish population for MS. We aimed to investigate the 12 most significant markers for their role in disease outcome.

Methods

Cases with probable or definite MS (Poser criteria) were classified as benign onset (Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] ≤ 3.0 at 10 years), aggressive (Kurtzke EDSS ≥ 6.0 by 10 years), or primary progressive MS. All cases were Caucasian of Northern Irish origin. DNA was extracted from venous blood, microsatellite markers were amplified using polymerase chain reaction and typed using fluorescent fragment analysis. Allele frequencies were compared statistically using a chi-squared test with allowance for multiple comparisons (critical P < 0.0042); significant markers were further analyzed by CLUMP (critical P < 0.0014).

Results

Two microsatellite markers were significant: D3S1278 (Chr 3q13, P < 0.001) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (Chr 6p21, P < 0.001). A further three markers were significant in our preliminary analysis suggesting a trend toward impact on disease outcome; D4S432 (Chr 4p16, P = 0.001), D2S347 (Chr 2q14, P = 0.003), and D19S903 (Chr 19p13, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

This is the first study to suggest a role for TNF-α in the disease outcome in MS. Larger replication studies need to be performed to assess the role of markers D4S432, D2S347, and D19S903.
The Causal Mechanisms of Interaction between International Institutions
Authors: Gehring Thomas , Oberthür Sebastian
Published: February 2009

This article develops a conceptual framework for the systematic analysis of the interaction between international institutions as a first step towards building a theory of international interaction. It examines how international institutions may exert causal influence on each other's development and effectiveness and suggests that four general causal mechanisms can elucidate the distinct routes through which influence travels from one institution to another. Institutional interaction can thus rely on transfer of knowledge, commitments established under an institution, behavioural effects of an institution, and functional linkage of the ultimate governance targets of the institutions involved. The article also puts forward hypotheses about the likely effects of specific types of institutional interaction for governance within the international system. The causal mechanisms and types of interaction are mutually exclusive models that help analyse real-world interaction situations. They may also serve as a basis for the systematic analysis of more complex interaction situations.