bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Impulsivity and Speeded Ability Test Performance
Authors: Reeve Charlie L.
Published: March 2007

The current study examines the influence of functional impulsivity on speeded ability test performance. As predicted, functional impulsivity was positively related to number of items attempted (i.e., speed), but its impact on total score was more complex. In particular, analysis of the relations between ability, functional impulsivity and accuracy revealed evidence of a suppressor effect. Specifically, functional impulsivity was found to be negatively related to accuracy, but only after ability differences were controlled. Taken as whole, the current results suggest functional impulsivity may influence test‐taking behavior, but it likely does not result in a systematic influence on observed scores. Directions for further research needed to clarify these relations are discussed.
The Convergent Validity between Self and Observer Ratings of Personality: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Connolly James J. , Kavanagh Erin J. , Viswesvaran Chockalingam
Published: March 2007

The convergent validity between self and observer ratings of the Big Five dimensions of personality was examined by cumulating research findings across studies. The mean correlation corrected for coefficientαin self‐ratings and inter‐rater reliability in observer ratings was .46 for agreeableness (N=6359,k=53), .56 for conscientiousness (N=6754,k=58), .51 for emotional stability (N=8000,k=55), .62 for extraversion (N=7725,k=50), and .59 for openness to experience (N=5333,k=38). Results indicate that, although there is a high degree of construct overlap, both self and observer ratings have substantial unique variance. Moderator effects were analyzed. The duration of acquaintance (strangers vs close relatives) as well as observer type (peers at work vs relatives) were analyzed. Acquaintanceship had a large moderating effect whereas observer type did not moderate the level of convergence.
Headache Prevalence Among Adolescents — The German DMKG Headache Study
Authors: Fendrich K , Vennemann M , Pfaffenrath V , Evers S , May A , Berger K , Hoffmann W
Published: March 2007

This population-based cross-sectional study examined the 3-month prevalence of headache, migraine and tension-type headache (TTH) among adolescents aged 12-15 years in Germany Students ( n = 3324) from 20 schools completed a questionnaire on general and headache-specific pain which included a sociodemographic module. The headache-specific questionnaire complied with the respective revised criteria of the International Headache Society (IHS). 'Modified criteria' changed the item 'duration' in migraine (>30 min instead of >4 h). The overall 3-month prevalence of headache was 69.4% (boys 59.5%, girls 78.9%), with 4.4% of the adolescents suffering from frequent (≥ 14 days/3 months) and severe (grade 8-10 on a 10-point visual analogue scale) headache and 1.4% (boys 0.9%, girls 1.9%) from headache ≥15 days/month. The 3-month prevalence of migraine was 2.6% (boys 1.6%, girls 3.5%) applying strict IHS criteria and 6.9% (boys 4.4%, girls 9.3%) with modified criteria; 12.6% (boys 8.3%, girls 16.7%) suffered from probable migraine, 0.07% fulfilled the criteria for chronic migraine, 4.5% (boys 4.6%, girls 4.3%) suffered from TTH, 0.2% from chronic TTH and 15.7% (boys 14.5%, girls 16.9%) from probable TTH. Headache and migraine were more common in girls than in boys and in teenagers, especially in girls, aiming at higher education. Recurrent headache and primary headache disorders are common complaints among German adolescents, especially among girls.
Confidence intervals for candidate gene effects and environmental factors in population‐based association studies of families
Authors: Shin Janey , Darlington Gerarda A. , Cotton Cecilia , Corey Mary , Bull Shelley B.
Published: March 2007

Complex diseases are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Studies of individuals or of families can be used to examine the association of genetic factors, such as candidate genes, and other risk factors with the presence or absence of complex disorders. If families are investigated, whether or not they are randomly ascertained, possible familial correlation among observations must be considered. We have compared two statistical approaches for analyzing correlated binary data from randomly ascertained nuclear families. The generalized estimating equations approach (GEE) can be used to adjust for familial correlation. The relationship between covariates and the response is modelled, and the correlations among family members are treated as nuisance parameters. For comparison, we have proposed two strategies from a hierarchical nonparametric bootstrap approach. One strategy (S1) samples family units, preserving the structure and correlation within each family. A second and novel strategy (S2) also samples family units but then randomly samples offspring with replacement in each family. We applied the methods to data from a study of cardiovascular disease, and followed up with a simulation study in which family data were generated from an underlying multifactorial genetic model. Although the bootstrap approach was more computationally demanding, it outperformed the GEE in terms of confidence interval coverage probabilities for all sample sizes considered.
Ethnic differences in interleukin 6 (IL‐6) and IL6 receptor genes in spontaneous preterm birth and effects on amniotic fluid protein levels
Authors: Velez D. R. , Menon R. , Thorsen P. , Jiang L. , Simhan H. , Morgan N. , Fortunato S. J. , Williams S. M.
Published: March 2007

Preterm birth (PTB) is a significant neonatal health problem that is more common in African‐Americans (AA) than in European‐Americans (EA). Part of this disparity is likely to result from the differing genetic architectures of EA and AA. To begin assessing the role of these differences, patterns of genetic variation in two previously proposed candidate genes, encoding interleukin 6 (IL6) and its receptor (IL6R), were analyzed in mothers and fetuses from 496 EA birth‐events (149 cases and 347 controls) and 397 birth‐events in AA (76 cases and 321 controls). IL‐6 levels in amniotic fluid (AF) samples were determined in a subset of these pregnancies. Case‐control comparisons revealed a single SNP in IL6R associated with PTB (p=0.04 for allelic and p=0.05 for genotype association). In addition, all of the SNPs studied showed significant frequency differences between AA and EA in at least one comparison, significantly in excess of that expected from general population databases. Higher IL‐6 concentrations were associated with the IL6 SNP ‐661 in EA preterm samples (p=0.0056), and this result seems to be driven by microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity, indicating a gene by infection interaction. These findings indicate that, as a function of IL6 genotype, EA and AA women respond differently to infection with respect to their expression of IL‐6. Our data support differential genetic control of levels of IL‐6 in amniotic fluid between EA and AA.
Antenatal maternal stress and long‐term effects on child neurodevelopment: how and why?
Authors: Talge Nicole M. , Neal Charles , Glover Vivette ,   the Early Stress, Translational Research and Prevention Science Network: Fetal and Neonatal Experience on Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Published: March 2007

We review a significant body of evidence from independent prospective studies that if a mother is stressed while pregnant, her child is substantially more likely to have emotional or cognitive problems, including an increased risk of attentional deficit/hyperactivity, anxiety, and language delay. These findings are independent of effects due to maternal postnatal depression and anxiety. We still do not know what forms of anxiety or stress are most detrimental, but research suggests that the relationship with the partner can be important in this respect. The magnitude of these effects is clinically significant, as the attributable load of emotional/behavioral problems due to antenatal stress and/or anxiety is approximately 15%. Animal models suggest that activity of the stress‐responsive hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis and its hormonal end‐product cortisol are involved in these effects in both mother and offspring. The fetal environment can be altered if stress in the mother changes her hormonal profile, and in humans, there is a strong correlation between maternal and fetal cortisol levels. However, many problems remain in understanding the mechanisms involved in this interaction. For example, maternal cortisol responses to stress decline over the course of pregnancy, and earlier in pregnancy, the link between maternal and fetal cortisol is less robust. It is possible that the effects of maternal anxiety and stress on the developing fetus and child are moderated by other factors such as a maternal diet (e.g., protein load). It is suggested that extra vigilance or anxiety, readily distracted attention, or a hyper‐responsive HPA axis may have been adaptive in a stressful environment during evolution, but exists today at the cost of vulnerability to neurodevelopmental disorders.
The parent–infant dyad and the construction of the subjective self
Authors: Fonagy Peter , Gergely George , Target Mary
Published: March 2007

Developmental psychology and psychopathology has in the past been more concerned with the quality of self‐representation than with the development of the subjective agency which underpins our experience of feeling, thought and action, a key function of mentalisation. This review begins by contrasting a Cartesian view of pre‐wired introspective subjectivity with a constructionist model based on the assumption of an innate contingency detector which orients the infant towards aspects of the social world that react congruently and in a specifically cued informative manner that expresses and facilitates the assimilation of cultural knowledge. Research on the neural mechanisms associated with mentalisation and social influences on its development are reviewed. It is suggested that the infant focuses on the attachment figure as a source of reliable information about the world. The construction of the sense of a subjective self is then an aspect of acquiring knowledge about the world through the caregiver's pedagogical communicative displays which in this context focuses on the child's thoughts and feelings. We argue that a number of possible mechanisms, including complementary activation of attachment and mentalisation, the disruptive effect of maltreatment on parent–child communication, the biobehavioural overlap of cues for learning and cues for attachment, may have a role in ensuring that the quality of relationship with the caregiver influences the development of the child's experience of thoughts and feelings.
Brain basis of early parent–infant interactions: psychology, physiology, andin vivofunctional neuroimaging studies
Authors: Swain James E. , Lorberbaum Jeffrey P. , Kose Samet , Strathearn Lane
Published: March 2007

Parenting behavior critically shapes human infants’ current and future behavior. The parent–infant relationship provides infants with their first social experiences, forming templates of what they can expect from others and how to best meet others’ expectations. In this review, we focus on the neurobiology of parenting behavior, including our own functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) brain imaging experiments of parents. We begin with a discussion of background, perspectives and caveats for considering the neurobiology of parent–infant relationships. Then, we discuss aspects of the psychology of parenting that are significantly motivating some of the more basic neuroscience research. Following that, we discuss some of the neurohormones that are important for the regulation of social bonding, and the dysregulation of parenting with cocaine abuse. Then, we review the brain circuitry underlying parenting, proceeding from relevant rodent and nonhuman primate research to human work. Finally, we focus on a study‐by‐study review of functional neuroimaging studies in humans. Taken together, this research suggests that networks of highly conserved hypothalamic–midbrain–limbic–paralimbic–cortical circuits act in concert to support aspects of parent response to infants, including the emotion, attention, motivation, empathy, decision‐making and other thinking that are required to navigate the complexities of parenting. Specifically, infant stimuli activate basal forebrain regions, which regulate brain circuits that handle specific nurturing and caregiving responses and activate the brain's more general circuitry for handling emotions, motivation, attention, and empathy – all of which are crucial for effective parenting. We argue that an integrated understanding of the brain basis of parenting has profound implications for mental health.
Development of microsatellite markers in an amphicarpic species, Amphicarpaea edgeworthii Benth. (Leguminosae)
Authors: LIANG ZHONG‐CHENG , YANG JI , RAO GUANG‐YUAN
Published: March 2007

Eight polymorphic simple sequence repeats (SSRs) markers were developed for Amphicarpaea edgeworthii Benth., an amphicarpic species in East Asia. The low level of heterozygosity in populations and the high level of population differentiation found in this study suggest that A. edgeworthii has a mixed mating system that is predominantly selfing. The findings also indicate that the new markers can be used in genetic analyses of the mating system and the estimation of the construction of progeny populations contributed by chasmogamously and cleistogamously produced seeds.
Effects of cellular phone use on ear canal temperature measured by NTC thermistors
Authors: Tahvanainen Kari , Niño Juanita , Halonen Pirjo , Kuusela Tom , Alanko Tommi , Laitinen Tomi , Länsimies Esko , Hietanen Maila , Lindholm Harri
Published: March 2007

The earlier studies using phantom models and human subjects concerning warming effects during cellular phone use have been controversial, partly because radiofrequency (RF) exposures have been variable. In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover trial, 30 healthy subjects were submitted to 900 MHz (2W) and 1800 MHz (1W) cellular phone RF exposure, and to sham exposure in separate study sessions. Temperature signals were recorded continuously in both ear canals before, during and after the 35‐min RF exposure and the 35‐min sham exposure sessions. Temperature was measured by using small‐sized NTC thermistors placed in the ear canals through disposable ear plugs. The mean temperature changes were determined during a set cardiovascular autonomic function studies: during a 5‐min controlled breathing test, during a 5‐min spontaneous breathing test, during 7‐min head‐up tilting, 1‐min before, during and after two consecutive Valsalva manoeuvres and during a deep breathing test. Temperatures in the exposed ear were significantly higher during RF exposures compared with sham exposure in both 900 and 1800 MHz studies with maximum differences of 1·2 ± 0·5°C (900 MHz exposure) and 1·3 ± 0·7°C (1800 MHz exposure). Temperatures in the RF‐exposed ear were also significantly higher during the postexposure period compared with post‐sham exposure period with maximum differences of 0·6 ± 0·3°C for 900 MHz and 0·5 ± 0·5°C for 1800 MHz. The results of this study suggest that RF exposure to a cellular phone, either using 900 or 1800 MHz with their maximal allowed antenna powers, increases the temperature in the ear canal. The reason for the ear canal temperature rising is a consequence of mobile phone battery warming during maximal antenna power use. The earlier published articles do not indicate that temperature rising in the ear canal has any significant contribution from the RF fields emitted from mobile phones.
Respiratory effects on the reproducibility of cardiovascular autonomic parameters
Authors: Zöllei Éva , Csillik Andrea , Rabi Sándor , Gingl Zoltán , Rudas László
Published: March 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of breathing pattern on the reproducibility of the most commonly used heart rate and blood pressure variability parameters and baroreflex indices. 5–5 min ECG and blood pressure recordings were made and repeated for 10 healthy volunteers in supine rest on 10 consecutive days during spontaneous and 6 min−1 patterned breathing. We investigated the following parameters: mean RR interval (RRI); the standard deviation of RR intervals (SDRR); the root mean square of successive differences in RRI (RMSSD); the percentage of RRIs which differed by 50% from the proceeding RRI (PNN50); mean systolic arterial pressure (SAP); the standard deviation of SAP (SAP SD); mean mean arterial pressure (MAP); mean diastolic blood pressure (DAP) and baroreflex indices from spontaneous sequence method (upBRS and downBRS) and from cross spectral analysis (LF alpha, HF alpha). To assess reproducibility for each parameter within‐ and between‐subject variability values were calculated and the ratio of within‐ and between‐subject variability was assessed. In addition, we calculated intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Compared to spontaneous respiration during 6 min−1 patterned breathing the heart rate and blood pressure variability increased; upBRS, LF alpha and HF alpha increased, downBRS did not change. However, ICC showed good reproducibility for most parameters, which did not improve further with controlled breathing. In conclusion, respiration had a strong influence on the most widely used cardiovascular autonomic parameters. The controlling of breathing did not result in consistent improvement in their reproducibility.
Workers, worries and welfare states: Social protection and job insecurity in 15 OECD countries
Authors: ANDERSON CHRISTOPHER J. , PONTUSSON JONAS
Published: March 2007

Abstract.  This article examines a model of the domestic political economy of subjective employment insecurity in advanced industrial societies. Based on data on people's attitudes toward their job as well as levels of and kinds of social protection collected in 15 OECD countries, it shows that there are distinct manifestations of job insecurity that are affected differently by distinct aspects of social protection programs. While the analysis shows that social protection measures reduce employment insecurity, it also reveals that overall levels welfare state generosity do not have any systematic effect on whether workers feel secure. The article's findings suggest the need to decompose the different components of employment insecurity as well as disaggregate national systems of social protection when examining the impact of welfare states on job insecurity.
Recognition of Pixelized Chinese Characters Using Simulated Prosthetic Vision
Authors: Chai Xinyu , Yu Wei , Wang Jia , Zhao Ying , Cai Changsi , Ren Qiushi
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  The rehabilitation of the reading ability of the blind with a limited number of stimulating electrodes is regarded as one of the major functions of the envisioned visual prosthesis. This article systematically studied how many pixels of individual Chinese characters should be needed for correct and economic recognition by blind Chinese subjects. In this study, 40 normal‐sighted subjects were tested on a self‐developed platform HanziConvertor (Institute for Laser Medicine & Bio‐photonics, Shanghai Jiaotong University, China) with digital imaging processing capacities to convert images of printed text into various pixelized patterns made up of discrete dots, and present them orderly on a computer screen. It was found that various complicated factors such as pixel number, character typeface, stroke number, etc., can obviously affect the recognition accuracy. It was also found that optimal recognition accuracy occurs at a specific size of binary pixel array, due to a trade‐off between a strictly limited number of stimulation electrodes and character sampling resolution. The results showed that (i) recognition accuracy of pixelized characters is optimal with at least 12 × 12 binary pixels, and therefore it is recommended to apply a minimum of 150 discrete and functioning electrodes for restoring the reading ability of blind Chinese individuals in the visual prosthesis; (ii) fonts of Song Ti and Hei Ti are clearer and more effective than other typefaces; and (iii) characters with fewer strokes lead to better accuracy.
In Vivo Cartilage Tissue Engineering Using a Cell‐Derived Extracellular Matrix Scaffold
Authors: Jin Cheng Zhe , Park So Ra , Choi Byung Hyune , Park Kwideok , Min Byoung‐Hyun
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  We have observed in our previous study that a cell‐derived extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold could assure the growth of a cartilage tissue construct in vitro. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of a chondrocyte‐seeded cell‐derived ECM scaffold by implanting it in vivo in nude mouse. A porous cell‐derived ECM scaffold was prepared with a freeze‐drying protocol using porcine chondrocytes. Rabbit articular chondrocytes were seeded onto the scaffold and cultured for 2 days in vitro, and then implanted into the nude mouse subcutaneously. They were retrieved at 1, 2, and 3 weeks postimplantation. Under macroscopic analysis, the cartilage‐like tissue formation matured with time and developed a smooth, white surface. Contrary to the control (in which no cells were seeded), the size of the neocartilage tissue increased slightly by the third week and remained more stable. Total glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content and the GAG/DNA ratio increased significantly with time in the chemical analysis. The histology exhibited a sustained accumulation of newly synthesized sulfated proteoglycans. Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) clearly identified type II collagen at all time points. Compressive strength of in vivo neocartilage increased from 0.45 ± 0.06 MPa at 1 week to 1.18 ± 0.17 MPa at 3 weeks. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the cell‐derived ECM scaffold could provide chondrocytes with favorable in vivo environment to produce a hyaline‐like cartilage tissue.
Anticoagulation Minimization Is Safe and Effective in Albumin Liver Dialysis Using the Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System
Authors: Tan Han Khim , Yang Wen Shin , Chow Pierce , Lui Hock Foong , Choong Hui Lin , Wong Kok Seng
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  The molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) is a blood purification device with renal and hepatic dialytic effects. This study examined the use of low‐dose unfractionated heparin in MARS. This was a prospective, observational study of 15 MARS treatment sessions (mean duration per treatment cycle = 12.2 ± 4.5 h) in four patients with severe acute decompensation of chronic liver disease (n = 3) and fulminant hepatic failure (n = 1) treated with intermittent MARS. All patients were critically ill (APACHE II 24.8 ± 3.3). Renal dialysis was with continuous hemofiltration and/or slow low‐efficiency dialysis. One MARS session was terminated because of vascular access occlusion (1/15; 6.7%). Bleeding was noted in two sessions (2/15; 13%). Twelve MARS sessions were heparin‐free and three treatments were with mean heparin dose of 833 ± 382 IU. Serum biochemical parameters pre‐ and post‐MARS were total bilirubin (µmol/L): 409.4 ± 141.6 versus 282.9 ± 90, P < 0.05; plasma ammonia (µmol/L): 44.3 ± 21.2 versus 28.8 ± 20.2, P = 0.002; urea (mmol/L): 15.9 ± 11.8 versus 7.9 ± 6.6, P = 0.002; creatinine (µmol/L): 252.4 ± 151.9 versus 150.1 ± 96.6, P = 0.003. Pre‐MARS versus post‐MARS systolic (SBPs) and diastolic (DBPs) blood pressures (mm Hg) were SBP = 129.2 ± 27.7 versus 124 ± 25, P = 0.838; and DBP = 60.7 ± 15.3 versus 56 ± 13, P = 0.595. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and platelet count (Plt) pre‐ and post‐MARS were PT(s): 22 ± 7.9 versus 23.8 ± 10.2, P =  0.116; aPTT (s): 64.5 ± 40.9 versus 85.5 ± 50.6, P = 0.092; and Plt (×103/mm3): 87 ± 67.6 versus 68.8 ± 39, P = 0.098. MARS priming with heparin saline was safe. Heparin‐minimized MARS did not compromise circuit function and longevity in extended intermittent MARS.
Citrate Anticoagulation Control by Ionized Calcium Levels Does Not Prevent Hemostasis and Complement Activation During Hemodialysis
Authors: Opatrný Karel , Richtrová Pavlína , Polanská Kamila , Wirth Jan , Šefrna František , Brandl Martin , Falkenhagen Dieter
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) controlled by ionized calcium (iCa2+) would overcome thrombogenicity, prevent hemostasis, and complement activation during hemodialysis (HD). RCA was performed in 10 patients during 10 HD sessions using a polysulfone membrane in an effort to keep iCa2+ at dialyzer outlet at ≤0.4 mmol/L. Compared to baseline, plasma levels of thrombin‐antithrombin III complexes rose significantly at 240 min, and tissue factor and complement C5a component levels at 30 and 240 min of the procedure. Thrombocyte count declined significantly at 30 and 240 min, while activated clotting time (ACT) did not increase significantly, and platelet factor 4 as well as von Willebrand factor levels did not alter significantly. While ACT correlated significantly with some thrombogenicity markers, iCa2+ did not correlate with ACT, changes in hemostasis, or C5a. We conclude the usually recommended iCa2+ levels in the HD extracorporeal circuit did not guarantee the complete overcoming of thrombogenicity, prevention of hemostasis, and complement activation.
A New Minimized Perfusion Circuit Provides Highly Effective Ultrasound Controlled Deairing
Authors: Kutschka Ingo , Schönrock Uwe , Essawi Aschraf El , Pahari Dipak , Anssar Marcel , Harringer Wolfgang
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Minimized perfusion circuits (MPCs) have been criticized for insufficient air elimination. The deairing capabilities of a new MPC, including an ultrasound controlled deairing unit, were compared to a standard extracorporeal circuit (ECC) in a laboratory setup. During blood flow of 4.0l/min, we injected 30‐cc air over a period of 30 s into the venous line of both systems (n = 10 measurements/15‐min intervals). Air was detected during the first 2 min post injection using a dual‐channel ultrasound bubble counter. Venous air bubble measurements were made after the MPC bubble trap and the ECC hard‐shell reservoir, respectively. Arterial air bubble data were obtained after the arterial filters (40 µm). Venous bubble count was significantly (P < 0.01) reduced in the MPC group (5–250 µm, 681 ± 177; >40 µm, 288 ± 92) compared with the ECC group (5–250 µm, 19 272 ± 682; >40 µm, 7642 ± 520). After the arterial filter, minimal numbers of air bubbles (5–250 µm, 172 ± 59; >40 µm, 0) could be detected in the MPC group, but large amounts of air (5–250 µm, 16 194 ± 1072; >40 µm, 3732 ± 997) were measured in the ECC group. The air elimination of the modern MPC is superior to conventional ECC, which may result in a reduction of neurological complications.
A Hydrodynamically Suspended, Magnetically Sealed Mechanically Noncontact Axial Flow Blood Pump: Design of a Hydrodynamic Bearing
Authors: Mitamura Yoshinori , Kido Kazuyuki , Yano Tetsuya , Sakota Daisuke , Yambe Tomoyuki , Sekine Kazumitsu , OKamoto Eiji
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  To overcome the drive shaft seal and bearing problem in rotary blood pumps, a hydrodynamic bearing, a magnetic fluid seal, and a brushless direct current (DC) motor were employed in an axial flow pump. This enabled contact‐free rotation of the impeller without material wear. The axial flow pump consisted of a brushless DC motor, an impeller, and a guide vane. The motor rotor was directly connected to the impeller by a motor shaft. A hydrodynamic bearing was installed on the motor shaft. The motor and the hydrodynamic bearing were housed in a cylindrical casing and were waterproofed by a magnetic fluid seal, a mechanically noncontact seal. Impeller shaft displacement was measured using a laser sensor. Axial and radial displacements of the shaft were only a few micrometers for motor speed up to 8500 rpm. The shaft did not make contact with the bearing housing. A flow of 5 L/min was obtained at 8000 rpm at a pressure difference of 100 mm Hg. In conclusion, the axial flow blood pump consisting of a hydrodynamic bearing, a magnetic fluid seal, and a brushless DC motor provided contact‐free rotation of the impeller without material wear.
Making Sense of COMPSTAT: A Theory-Based Analysis of Organizational Change in Three Police Departments
Authors: Willis James J. , Mastrofski Stephen D. , Weisburd David
Published: March 2007

COMPSTAT, the latest innovation in American policing, has been widely heralded as a management and technological system whose elements work together to transform police organizations radically. Skeptical observers suggest that COMPSTAT merely reinforces existing structures and practices. However, in trying to assess how much COMPSTAT has altered police organizations, research has failed to provide a broader theoretical basis for explaining how COMPSTAT operates and for understanding the implications of this reform. This article compares two different perspectives on organizations—technical/rational and institutional—to COMPSTAT's adoption and operation in three municipal police departments. Based on fieldwork, our analysis suggests that relative to technical considerations for changing each organization to improve its effectiveness, all three sites adopted COMPSTAT in response to strong institutional pressures to appear progressive and successful. Furthermore, institutional theory better explained the nature of the changes we observed under COMPSTAT than the technical/rational model. The greatest collective emphasis was on those COMPSTAT elements that were most likely to confer legitimacy, and on implementing them in ways that would minimize disruption to existing organizational routines. COMPSTAT was less successful when trying to provide a basis for rigorously assessing organizational performance, and when trying to change those structures and routines widely accepted as being “appropriate.” We posit that it will take profound changes in the technical and institutional environments of American police agencies for police departments to restructure in the ways anticipated by a technically efficient COMPSTAT.
Social Identity and Social Exchange: Identification, Support, and Withdrawal From the Job
Authors: Van Knippenberg Daan , Van Dick Rolf , Tavares Susana
Published: March 2007

Integrating insights from the social exchange perspective and the social identity perspective, we propose that evaluations of support received from the organization and its representatives and organizational identification interact to predict withdrawal from the job. The relationship of support with withdrawal is proposed to be weaker the more strongly employees identify with the organization. This prediction was confirmed in 2 samples focusing on different operationalizations of support and withdrawal. Study 1 explored the interaction between organizational support and organizational identification in predicting turnover intention; Study 2 investigated the link between supervisor support and organizational identification and absenteeism. The present study thus yields evidence that may lay the groundwork for further integration of social exchange and social identity analyses of organizational behavior.
The Impact of Distractions on Heuristic Processing: Internet Advertisements and Stereotype Use1
Authors: Miarmi Lindsay , DeBono Kenneth G.
Published: March 2007

This experiment investigated the effects of Internet advertisements on use of stereotypes during a judgment task. Participants read a crime scenario on a computer screen and were asked to sentence the defendant. For some, the defendant was Caucasian; while for others, the defendant was African American. Moreover, in some conditions, Internet ads appeared periodically throughout the task. For others, no such ads appeared. Results revealed a significant interaction between the presence of Internet ads and defendant race such that the African American, but not the Caucasian, defendant received a significantly longer sentence when ads were present than when they were not. These findings indicate that the presence of Internet ads might have triggered participants to rely more on heuristic processing.
Motivational Bias in Criminal Investigators' Judgments of Witness Reliability1
Authors: Ask Karl , Granhag Pär Anders
Published: March 2007

An experiment was conducted where experienced criminal investigators (N = 49) evaluated the testimony of a witness who either confirmed or disconfirmed the focal hypothesis in a homicide case. Participants' motivation to perpetuate the hypothesis was manipulated by varying the need for cognitive closure via time pressure. The hypothesis‐inconsistent witness was perceived as less reliable and credible, although its background and witnessing conditions were identical to those of the hypothesis‐consistent witness. While this asymmetrical skepticism was not moderated by time pressure, participants under high (vs. low) time pressure were less inclined to adjust their confidence in the hypothesis in line with the witness testimony. Discussion focuses on implications for criminal investigations and theoretical contributions to investigative psychology.
The Effects of Media Bias
Authors: Hoffman August John , Wallach Julie
Published: March 2007

The current research investigated whether bias exists in newspapers that are considered liberal or conservative, and whether this bias influences public opinion of events. Participants were college students (N = 67) who were enrolled in a 4‐year university (n = 33) or a community college (n = 34). Participants were shown photographs and short articles relating to a presidential debate between President George W. Bush and Senator John Kerry. Participants completed questionnaires relating to their opinions of the candidates. Results showed statistical significance within groups before and after exposure to the newspaper clippings.
The Influence of Media Coverage on Responses to a Hypothetical Burglary Scenario1
Authors: Jonathan Tal , Alison Laurence J. , Long Amy
Published: March 2007

The present study examined whether media coverage was likely to have an effect on burglars' emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses to the offense. Questionnaires were distributed to 224 male students, who were asked to imagine that they had committed a “burglary under the influence of alcohol.” They were asked to express their thoughts, feelings, and possible actions, both before and after reading a newspaper article about the offense. A multidimensional scaling procedure identified 4 response themes: guilt, fear, forensic awareness, and pride. Two persuasion variables (inducing guilt and a hidden message) were found to have a multifaceted influence on the 4 themes. Implications for police use of the media as well as limitations of the study are discussed.
Variability in host‐plant quality for the larvae of a polyphagous insect folivore in midseason: the impact of light on three deciduous sapling species
Authors: Osier T.L. , Jennings S.M.
Published: March 2007

We examined the effects of light availability on the suitability of foliage from red maple (Acer rubrum L.) (Aceraceae), black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrhart) (Rosaceae), and sassafras [Sassafras albidum (Nuttall) Nees (Lauraceae)] for the larvae of the promethea moth, Callosamia promethea Drury (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), in midseason. We identified replicate sun‐ and shade‐grown saplings of red maple, black cherry, and sassafras from naturally growing populations in the field. Foliage collected from the experimental saplings was bioassayed using early instars of the promethea moth and assayed for nitrogen and carbon content. Promethea moth‐larval performance and survivorship was highest on sassafras, intermediate on black cherry, and lowest on red maple. Larvae feeding on foliage from plants grown in the sun performed better than from those grown in the shade; the effect of light did not depend on sapling species. Foliar nitrogen content varied among the sapling species and was higher, overall, in foliage from plants grown in the sun. Nitrogen concentration related strongly and positively with larval performance and accounted for a great deal of the variation in performance both among the sapling species and between the sun and shade treatments. During midseason, foliar nitrogen content is determined by light availability, it varies among sapling species, and it is likely the primary constituent determining host quality for folivores on these sapling species.
Chronic administration of melatonin reduces cerebral injury biomarkers in SAMP8
Authors: Gutierrez‐Cuesta Javier , Sureda Francesc X. , Romeu Marta , Canudas Anna M. , Caballero Beatriz , Coto‐Montes Ana , Camins Antoni , Pallàs Mercè
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Certain effects of melatonin on senescence were investigated. The experimental model used was 10‐month‐old senescence‐accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8). The mice in the experiment were administered melatonin (10 mg/kg) from the age of 1 month. Results showed that chronic administration of melatonin decreased cell loss in the cerebral cortex and reduced oxidative damage in protein and lipids. There are several studies suggesting that the activation of the cdk5/p35 pathway at its cleavage to cdk5/p25 may play a role in hyperphosphorylation of tau during aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Melatonin not only reduced the cerebral aging disturbances, but also prevented tau hyperphosphorylation present in the experimental model used in this study. Melatonin reduced cdk5 expression, as well as the cleavage of p35 to p25. The other tau kinase studied, GSK3β, showed a reduction in this activity in comparison with SAMP8 nontreated SAMP8. These data indicate that melatonin possesses neuroprotective properties against cerebral damage gated to senescence. Moreover, these data suggest that the cdk5/GSKβ signaling cascade has a potential role as a target for neurodegenerative diseases related to aging.
Age at First Sex and HIV Infection in Rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Hallett Timothy B. , Lewis James J.C. , Lopman Ben A. , Nyamukapa Constance A. , Mushati Phyllis , Wambe Mainford , Garnett Geoffrey P. , Gregson Simon
Published: March 2007

Beginning sexual activity introduces an individual to the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections. In this study, cross‐sectional behavioral data linked to HIV‐status from 4,138 men and 4,948 women interviewed in rural Zimbabwe are analyzed to investigate the distribution and consequences of early first sex. We find that age at first sex (at a median age of 19 years for males and 18 years for females) has declined among males over the past 30 years but increased recently among females. Those in unskilled employment, those not associated with a church, and women without a primary education begin to have sex earlier than others. Early sexual debut before marriage precedes a lifetime of greater sexual activity but with more consistent condom use. Women who begin to have sex earlier than others of their age are more likely to be infected with HIV. This finding can be explained by their having a greater lifetime number of sexual partners than those whose first sexual experience occurs later.
Estimating the Incidence of Abortion in Pakistan
Authors: Sathar Zeba A. , Singh Susheela , Fikree Faryal F.
Published: March 2007

This study applies an indirect estimation method to develop comprehensive national and provincial estimates of the prevalence of abortion and abortion‐related morbidity in Pakistan. Data from a health facilities survey and a health professionals survey from 2002 are analyzed to develop estimates of postabortion hospitalizations and of the abortion rate, abortion ratio, and unwanted pregnancy rate. We estimate that 890,000 induced abortions are performed annually in Pakistan, and estimate an annual abortion rate of 29 per 1,000 women aged 15–49. The abortion rate is found to be higher in provinces where contraceptive use is lower and where unwanted childbearing is higher. The unwanted pregnancy rate is estimated at 77 per 1,000 women, or about 37 percent of all pregnancies. Abortions account for termination of one in seven pregnancies. An estimated 197,000 women are treated annually in public hospitals and private teaching hospitals for induced abortion complications, a number equivalent to an annual rate of 6.4 women hospitalized as a result of unsafe induced abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–49.
Actions of glucocorticoid and their regulatory mechanisms in the ovary
Authors: TETSUKA Masafumi
Published: March 2007

Glucocorticoid (G) directly modulates ovarian functions through binding to G receptor. The actions of G are both agonistic and antagonistic depending on the developmental stage of follicles and corpora lutea (CL). During follicular maturation, G suppresses follicular differentiation by downregulating expression of P450 aromatase and luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor in granulosa cells. During ovulation, G protects the ovulatory follicle from inflammatory damage and promotes luteinization, ensuring a smooth transition of the follicle to CL. Throughout life the ovary is exposed to periodic and sporadic waves of G. The Ovary appears to cope with this situation by locally modulating levels of active G. The primary regulatory mechanism consists of two isoforms of 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11βHSD) that catalyze conversion between active and inactive G. During follicular maturation the levels of active G are suppressed by the dehydrogenase activity of 11βHSD, whereas during the ovulatory process, levels of active G are further increased by the oxo‐reductase activity of 11βHSD. The expression of these enzymes is under the control of gonadotrpins and local regulatory factors such as cytokines, allowing the mechanism to act in coordination with major reproductive events. Thus the G system is an integral part of ovarian physiology, which ensures that the ovary experiences only beneficial effects of G.
Effects of growth rate during the early fattening period on growth, carcass characteristics and circulating hormones in the different growth hormone genotypes of Japanese black steers
Authors: OKA Akio , IWAKI Fumiyuki , IWAMOTO Eiji , TATSUDA Ken
Published: March 2007

One of the bovine growth hormone (GH) genetic variants is a substitution of leucine (Leu) to valine (Val) at amino acid position 127 of the protein. The GH genotypes of 14 Japanese black steers used in the present study were Leu/Leu (A, n = 7) and Val/Val (B, n = 7). The steers in each genotype group were divided into two groups based on intended growth rate (high, 1.0 kg/day; low, 0.6 kg/day) during 10–17 months of age. The overall mean concentration of plasma GH was higher (P < 0.05) in the A group than in the B group. The serum concentration of insulin‐like growth factor‐I was higher (P < 0.05) in the B group than in the A group. The carcass weight of the A group was greater (P < 0.01) than that of the B group. However, there was no significant difference in carcass weights between the 1.0 kg/day and 0.6 kg/day groups (P > 0.05). The rib thickness of the 1.0 kg/day group was greater (P < 0.05) than that of the 0.6 kg/day group. The crude fat content of longissimus muscle was greater (P < 0.05) for the 0.6 kg/day group compared with the 1.0 kg/day group.
Application of an early skip‐a‐day feed restriction on physiological parameters, carcass traits and development of ascites in male broilers reared under regular or cold temperatures at high altitude
Authors: KHAJALI Fariborz , ZAMANI‐MOGHADDAM Abdolkarim , ASADI‐KHOSHOEI Ebrahim
Published: March 2007

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a skip‐a‐day feed removal early in life on physiological parameters and ascites occurrence in broilers reared at a high altitude (2100 m above sealevel) under regular or cold temperatures. Three hundred 1‐day‐old male broilers were divided into two equal groups. One group was placed in an enclosure with standard thermal management. The other group treated for the induction of ascites was raised under cold temperature conditions. In each enclosure, birds were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups (three replicate floor pens of 25 chicks per treatment group): (i) a control was fed a standard starter and grower diet according to the National Research Council; or (ii) a skip‐a‐day feed removal, which was similar to the control except for 24 h fasting intervals at 9, 11 and 13 days of age. Results indicate that live bodyweight following the feed removal at up to 42 days of age was significantly different between the control and skip‐a‐day restricted birds (P < 0.01). Skip‐a‐day feed removal resulted in decreased weight gain (P = 0.005) but did not influence feed conversion ratio. The heterophil : lymphocyte ratio was numerically higher for the cold environment and increased when birds were exposed to fasting, but these differences were not significant. Hematocrit was significantly higher (P = 0.0001) in broilers raised in cold conditions whereas it was not influenced by feed restriction. Circulatory thyroid hormone concentrations were not influenced by the feed restriction program under both environments. Birds subjected to cold had significantly lower (P = 0.0023) carcass yield compared to those reared at normal temperature. Breast yield and abdominal fat deposition were not influenced by cold or feed restriction. A reduction in mortality from ascites was noted in broilers who experienced early skip‐a‐day feed removal under both environmental conditions.
Nutritional status in pregnant adolescents: a systematic review of biochemical markers
Authors: Hall Moran Victoria
Published: March 2007

Adolescent pregnancy is a major public health challenge for many industrialized countries and is associated with significant medical, nutritional, social and economic risk for mothers and their infants. Despite this, relatively little is known about the nutritional status of this population. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of the current evidence relating to the biochemical markers of nutritional status of pregnant adolescents living in industrialized countries. Six papers were identified that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, the majority of which were conducted in the United States. The studies were of variable quality and most failed to control for potential confounders which may have strongly influenced the findings. Due to limited research, conclusions cannot be drawn about the zinc and calcium status of pregnant adolescents, and data on folate and vitamin B12status appeared conflicting. There was some consensus among studies, however, to suggest that indicators of anaemia and iron status were compromised in pregnant adolescents, particularly during the third trimester of pregnancy. Chronological age did not appear to influence nutritional status, although there was some evidence to suggest that increasing gynaecologic age may positively influence plasma ferritin levels. Current research is limited by sampling and measurement bias, and research is urgently required to address these limitations. Further consideration should also be made of the influence of the role of socio‐economic support on pregnant adolescents’ nutritional status. The achievement of improved nutrition in pregnancy among adolescents requires multidisciplinary collaborations of adolescent healthcare providers, academics, professional organizations, policymakers, industry and service users. Only once this is achieved can adolescent nutrition, and adolescent nutrition in pregnancy, be significantly and sustainably optimized.