bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scientists' motivation to communicate science and technology to the public: surveying participants at the Madrid Science Fair
Authors: Martín-Sempere María José , Garzón-García Belén , Rey-Rocha Jesús
Published: May 2008

This paper investigates what motivates scientists to communicate science and technology in a science event involving a direct relationship and interaction with the public. A structured questionnaire survey was administered through face-to-face interviews to 167 research practitioners (researchers, technicians, support staff and fellows) at the Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) who participated in the Madrid Science Fair in the years 2001 to 2004. The motivations of members in each professional category are discussed. The most important motivations have to do with the desire to increase the public's interest in and enthusiasm for science, the public's scientific culture, and public awareness and appreciation of science and scientists. Senior researchers were also highly motivated by a sense of duty. Personal satisfaction and enjoyment were important motivations for younger scientists. This research will help to understand the mechanisms of scientists' motivation, and thus foster and encourage greater and better participation in events of this kind.
Building citizen capacities for participation in nanotechnology decision-making: the democratic virtues of the consensus Conference model
Authors: Powell Maria , Lee Kleinman Daniel
Published: May 2008

Research suggests that deliberative experiences may improve citizens' perceptions of their abilities to participate meaningfully in political and societal issues. Previous studies, however, have not looked in depth at citizens' perceptions after participating in consensus conferences. In this case study, drawing on in-depth interviews with participants of a consensus conference on nanotechnology, we consider the following questions: 1) How do citizen participants feel the consensus conference experience affected their knowledge and efficacy related to participation in nanotechnology issues? 2) Which aspects of the conference (if any) do citizens think shaped their knowledge and efficacy? 3) Are citizens motivated to engage in future participatory mechanisms related to nanotechnology issues, and why or why not? Although our case study is exploratory, it suggests that even if consensus conferences have little or no influence on policy or policymakers, they may empower citizens by improving their perceived abilities to participate meaningfully in technoscientific issues.
An exploratory study of public opinions on the use of hydrogen energy in Wales
Authors: Cherryman S.J. , King S. , Hawkes F.R. , Dinsdale R. , Hawkes D.L.
Published: May 2008

The introduction of hydrogen into the energy market is being pursued by governments around the world in an effort to abate climate change, provide security of supply and reduce air pollution. While technological aspects are well researched, the social aspects of the transition are not. The public's attitude and perception of hydrogen energy will be of great importance as we move closer to the implementation of the technologies. Using two focus groups this exploratory study aims to identify Welsh public opinions on the production and end use of hydrogen energy. Gender differences were apparent, as women were generally more accepting of hydrogen technology. The main concerns were safety (both of use and in production) and cost. Cost remained paramount, even in the light of environmental considerations. The groups' attitude to the development of hydrogen technology was supportive but with the caveat that price and safety should not be compromised.
The social embedding of biomedicine: an analysis of German media debates 1995—2004
Authors: Weingart Peter , Salzmann Christian , Wörmann Stefan
Published: May 2008

Biomedical research and technologies such as cloning, stem cell research, and the deciphering of the human genome have met with opposition—albeit of different intensity—motivated by ethical values. The debates over the continuation of research and the implementation of the respective technologies are being staged in the mass media. The media have assumed the function of “embedding” controversial knowledge and technologies into society by using public discourse. The hypothesis is that these discourses follow a common pattern revealing the process of “embedding,” and ultimately leading to a change of existing values. In this study, three debates over cloning, stem cell research and the Human Genome Project are analyzed in ten German daily and weekly newspapers over the period 1995—2004. It is shown that the patterns of reporting are more complex than anticipated. Rather than being identical for all technologies, they reveal different courses depending on the kind of knowledge/ technology and value sensitivity.
You cannot be serious! Public understanding of technology with special reference to “Hawk-Eye”
Authors: Collins Harry , Evans Robert
Published: May 2008

Public understanding of science, though it approaches the specialist knowledge of experts only in rare circumstances, can be enhanced more broadly in respect of the processes of science and technology. The public understanding of measurement errors and confidence intervals could be enhanced if “sports decision aids,” such as the Hawk-Eye system, were to present their results in a different way. There is a danger that Hawk-Eye as used could inadvertently cause naïve viewers to overestimate the ability of technological devices to resolve disagreement among humans because measurement errors are not made salient. For example, virtual reconstructions can easily be taken to show “exactly what really happened.” Suggestions are made for how confidence levels might be measured and represented and “health warnings” attached to reconstructions. A general principle for the use of sports decision aids is put forward. A set of open questions about Hawk-Eye is presented which, if answered, could help inform discussions of its use and accuracy.
Reducing the Illicit Trade in Endangered Wildlife
Authors: Schneider Jacqueline L.
Published: May 2008

The market reduction approach is a crime reduction strategy that aims to reduce and disrupt stolen goods markets, in addition to reducing theft levels by making it more risky for thieves to sell stolen property. Initially, the concept has shown promise in England with regard to reducing traditional forms of property-related crime as well as disrupting certain types of stolen goods markets. Additionally, strides have been made using property as a unit of analysis rather than traditional foci of attention when examining crime patterns and designing tactical responses. In line with the 2005 United Nations program of work on transnational and organized crime, this article uses the specific example of the illegal trade of endangered flora and fauna to explore how the market reduction approach can be expanded beyond its current use into the realm of nontraditional types of property crime.
Transitional Services for Youth With Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Kirkendall Abbie , Doueck Howard J. , Saladino Albert
Published: May 2008

This study evaluates the impact of a college-based dormitory program on transitioning youth with intellectual disabilities. A qualitative study, with interviews at pre and post, was conducted to evaluate the program's impact. Data were collected with semistructured interviews from young adults with intellectual disabilities who participated in a college-based residential program and their parents or guardians. Three general themes emerged from the data: Participants reported experiences that were (a) typical of normative life transitions, (b) typical of growing pains associated with significant life transitions and learning new skills, and (c) one step forward. Results indicate that the experience of living away from home for the first time was in some ways comparable to that of a typical college student. Improvement in life skills, including increased awareness of personal goals, enhanced vocational goals, increased maturity or assertiveness, was reported. Respondents were generally satisfied with the program.
Against the Odds or Odds-On Chance: Pathways of Coming Back Among Hand-Injured Workers in the Chinese Context
Authors: Cheng Yeung Hung
Published: May 2008

In this study, I used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach by means of thematic analysis to examine the lived experiences of hand-injured workers in Hong Kong. Twenty-seven informants with moderate to severe disabilities were interviewed over ten years about how they lived through their disability and their discourses were examined in the cultural context. Three categories (survivors, achievers, strugglers) were synthesized from the informants' life courses. Each category was analyzed under three themes: biographical disruption, working with a disability, and linking family and significant others, but these three categories proved fluid and subject to individual life course and contextual factors. All informants had to work “against the odds.” Most returned to work after recovery but some tended to drift within the labor market. Human agency and situated context facilitated achievers to progress through “oddson chance.” Outcome measures of rehabilitative interventions that focus on returning to employment might underestimate the sequelae of being disabled in society.
The SARS-Associated Stigma of SARS Victims in the Post-SARS Era of Hong Kong
Authors: Siu Judy Yuen-man
Published: May 2008

This article explores the disease-associated stigma attached to the SARS victims in the post-SARS era of Hong Kong. I argue that the SARS-associated stigma did not decrease over time. Based on the ethnographic data obtained from 16 months of participant observation in a SARS victims' self-help group and semistructured interviews, I argue that the SARS-associated stigma was maintained, revived, and reconstructed by the biomedical encounters, government institutions, and public perception. I also provide new insight on how the SARS-associated stigma could create problems for public health development in Hong Kong. As communicable diseases will be a continuing threat for the human society, understanding how the disease-associated stigma affects the outcomes of epidemic control measures will be crucial in developing a more responsive public health policy as well as medical follow-up and social support service to the diseased social groups of future epidemic outbreaks.
Young Males' Gendered Sexuality in the Era of HIV and AIDS in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Ragnarsson Anders , Onya Hans E. , Thorson Anna , Ekström Anna Mia , Aarø Leif Edvard
Published: May 2008

This article is focused on young males' sexual identity and behaviors in rural South Africa. The study comprised 19 focus group discussions with adolescents aged 12 to 14 years. The informants depict male sexuality as biologically predetermined, where physical needs and practices such as circumcision legitimize early sexual debut. Furthermore, the construction of male sexual identity and power imbalances in relationships are already evident at an early age, and age and economics are pertinent factors affecting social relations. Violent behavior and sexual abuse are supported by constructed gender inequalities forming an often negative and nonsupportive environment for young people. We stress the importance of planned HIV and sexuality education for young adolescents with support structures that can help endorse individual actions and informed choices. This is especially important in resource-poor settings where young people are likely to be less empowered than is the case in more affluent settings.
Barriers of Mistrust: Public and Private Health Sectors' Perceptions of Each Other in Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: De Costa Ayesha , Johansson Eva , Diwan Vinod K.
Published: May 2008

India has one of the most highly privatized health care systems in the world. The dominant private health sector functions alongside a traditional tiered public health sector. There has been an overall lack of collaboration between the two sectors despite international policy recommendations and local initiatives. It has been postulated that “conflicting perceptions” might contribute to the uncooperative attitude between the two sectors. But there has been little empirical exploration of the existing perceptions that the private and public health sectors have of each other. We explored these perceptions among key stakeholders (who influence the direction of health policy) in the public and private health sectors in the province of Madhya Pradesh, India. The barriers of mistrust, which hinder true dialogue, are complex, and have social, moral, and economic bases. They can be best addressed by necessary structural change before any significant long-term partnership between the two sectors is possible.
External Environments Facing Community Health Services Facilities That Belong to State-Owned Enterprises or Public Services Units in China
Authors: You Chuanmei , Lan Yao , Scarf Christopher
Published: May 2008

This article analyzes the external environments facing community health services (CHS) facilities that belong to state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public services units (PSUs) in urban China. Semistructured and open-ended key informant interviews were conducted in six such CHS facilities in Wuhan City. A total of 45 chief directors and various other classifications of health professionals from CHS facilities participated in the interviews. Behavioral responses of local government authorities, immediate managerial agencies (SOEs and PSUs), other medical facilities, and the general public were revealed as the external influences impacting these kinds of CHS facilities. Conclusions arrived at were that these CHS facilities need sound external environments to fulfill their roles, including financial support from government and immediate agencies, professional guidance and support, appropriate referrals from other medical facilities, and the cooperation and confidence of the general public in the work of the facilities.
Eating Disorders, Parent–Child Conflicts, and Family Therapy in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Ma Joyce L. C.
Published: May 2008

In this article, I report the results of a qualitative study conducted in Shenzhen, China, in which I aimed to (a) identify the characteristics of parent–child conflicts between Shenzhen youths suffering from eating disorders and their parents and (b) contextualize these intergenerational conflicts to understand their meanings within the immediate sociocultural context. I have employed multiple-case studies as the research design. Data have been collected through reviews of the family treatment sessions for ten families, each with an adolescent daughter suffering from eating disorders, and with the session being videotaped with written consent from the youths and the families. Emerging from the data were three types of parent–child conflicts: (a) intergenerational control and power struggle, (b) growing up versus remaining childlike, and (c) pursuit of personal goals or living up to parental expectations. Implications for clinical practice are also discussed.
Mexican American Women Aging With Childhood-Onset Paralytic Polio
Authors: Harrison Tracie , Angel Jacqueline , Mann Alison
Published: May 2008

In this study the life histories of 11 Latinas of Mexican American descent aging with permanent impairment related to childhood-onset paralytic polio were explored. These women, age 45 to 62 years, were interviewed 3 times each. Field notes, audiotaped interviews, life course charts, and demographic data were used to collect data chronicling childhood to present day. In the results we present a thematic representation of the societal and cultural influences on the life course trajectories of these women.
Philosophical Ties That Bind Practice
Authors: Bailey James R. , Ford Cameron M. , Raelin Jonathan D.
Published: May 2008

This article examines how philosophical assumptions of practice can thwart the conception, adoption, and implementation of critical actions such as creativity. Delineating positivism and interpretivism, it is argued that the former treats the world as an objective system that can be studied through scientific methods, whereas the latter conceptualizes the world as an ambiguous social construction that cannot be readily apprehended via standard empirical inquiry. This distinction is not drawn to aim another invective against positivist science but to connect it to scientific realism and scientific instrumentalism, revealing iterative mutuality. With the cultural value afforded positivism and the formal training delivered in professional schools, practitioners largely adhere to positivist assumptions. Therefore, after identifying and briefly reviewing the creativity literature as it relates to organizational change and innovation, three contrasts are drawn to illustrate how underlying assumptions prevent practices necessary for effective introduction of creative ideas and actions.
Caroli's Syndrome Leading to Splenic Artery Aneurysm: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Mandal Shramana , Das Partha M. , Mandal A.K.
Published: May 2008

Splenic artery aneurysm is a rare disorder (0.7%) that arises mainly as a sequlae to portal hypertension. Other causes of splenic artery aneurysm are atherosclerosis, arterial wall injury due to trauma, pancreatitis, and medial dysplasias of the wall. However, though Caroli's disease is known to cause portal hypertension, the rise of vascular pressure leading to aneurysm is not yet reported (extensive Medlar search failed to reveal any publication). Every effort should be made to diagnose this condition as early as possible because 25% of ruptured splenic aneurysms are fatal. A unique case of Caroli's disease giving rise to splenic artery aneurysm and its possible pathogenesis is reported.
Synchronous Primary Perianal Paget's Disease and Rectal Adenocarcinoma: Report of a Hitherto Undescribed Phenomenon
Authors: Chanjuan Shi  , Argani Pedram
Published: May 2008

Perianal Paget's disease is rare. It usually represents intraepidermal extension of an invasive carcinoma from an adjacent internal organ, but some cases represent primary intraepithelial cutaneous apocrine adenocarcinomas. Here, we report a unique case, which we interpret as synchronous primary perianal Paget's disease and lower rectal adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical stains demonstrated that the Paget's cells were CK7+/ CK20−/GCDFP+, whereas the rectal adenocarcinoma was CK7+(variable)/CK20+/GCDFP −. This discordant immunoprofile supported our impression that the Paget's disease in this patient was of cutaneous apocrine origin rather than a pagetoid extension from the patient's nearby rectal adenocarcinoma—to our knowledge a hitherto undocumented occurrence.
The Role of Cytokeratin 5/6 as an Adjunct Diagnostic Tool in Breast Core Needle Biopsies
Authors: Nofech-Mozes Sharon , Holloway Claire , Hanna Wedad
Published: May 2008

In this article, the probability of finding malignancy on surgical excision after applying well-defined morphological criteria combined with immunohistochemical evaluation of cytokeratin 5/6 for the diagnosis of atypical ductal hyperplasia on core biopsies is examined. On the basis of morphology alone, the reviewers reclassified the diagnoses of 140 core biopsies as follows: atypical ductal hyperplasia (n = 64), ductal hyperplasia of usual type (n = 44), flat epithelial atypia (n = 11), and miscellaneous benign (n = 21). Cytokeratin 5/6 immunostain was negative in 85.7% of atypical ductal hyperplasia cases and positive in 77.8% of ductal hyperplasia of usual type cases. The probability of predicting malignancy in a surgical specimen following a core biopsy increased from 43.6% to 67.8% ( P = .002) by adhering to defined criteria and using cytokeratin 5/6 immunostain. Expertise and adherence to defined criteria are required to establish an accurate diagnosis of atypical ductal hyperplasia. Cytokeratin 5/6 can be a useful adjunct in cases with ductal hyperplasia but not in columnar cell lesions, where it is universally negative.
Ewing Sarcoma and Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor of the Esophagus: Report of a Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Johnson Andrew D. , Pambuccian Stefan E. , Andrade Rafael S. , Dolan Michelle M. , Aslan Deniz L.
Published: May 2008

This study presents a case of Ewing sarcoma and primitive neuroectodermal tumor arising in the esophagus of a 44-year-old woman who presented with progressive dysphagia. Imaging studies demonstrated a polypoid lesion in the esophagus. The tumor was characterized by corded and pseudopapillary architecture, cytologic monotony, and low proliferative activity. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for CD99, neuron-specific enolase, vimentin, cyclin D1, p53, and FLI1 gene product. Fluorescence in situ hybridization demonstrated a 22q12 translocation, associated with primitive neuroectodermal tumor in the tumor cells, whereas reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction conformed expression of Ewing sarcoma/FLI1 fusion transcript in the patient’s bone marrow aspirate. Although this is a rare site for this type of tumor to occur, primitive neuroectodermal tumor should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mesenchymal tumors of the esophagus. Genetic analysis is crucial to establish the diagnosis and can be successfully performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded material and hematopoietic tissue.
Tobacco Intervention Training in Graduate Psychiatric Nursing Education Programs
Authors: Price James H. , Jordan Timothy R. , Jeffrey James D. , Stanley M. Scott , Price Joy A.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death, with the highest rate of cigarette smoking seen in mentally ill people. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the content, amount of time, and educational techniques used in tobacco education training for graduate psychiatric nurses. STUDY DESIGN: A national mail survey of all graduate psychiatric nursing education programs. RESULTS: One-third of programs offered detailed (> 1 hr) information on stages of change, the 5 A's and 5 R's. The majority of basic science tobacco topics were not covered or were covered briefly, and the 6 sociopolitical topics were not covered by the majority of programs. Training was by the traditional didactic method using scientific literature reviews. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides evidence of the need to improve the education of psychiatric nurses as tobacco interventionists at both the individual level and the legislative and policy formulation level. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc, 2008; 14(2), 117-124. DOI: 10.1177/1078390307311973
Factors Associated With Perceived Burden, Resourcefulness, and Quality of Life in Female Family Members of Adults With Serious Mental Illness
Authors: Zauszniewski Jaclene A. , Bekhet Abir K. , Suresky M. Jane
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Each year, 54 million American adults are affected by serious mental illness. Most of these persons depend on female family members for support or assistance, and unless these women are resourceful, they may experience considerable burden, stigma by association, depressive thoughts, and poor quality of life. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we examined the associations between characteristics of female family members (age, race, education), adults with serious mental illness (age, diagnosis), and the family situation (relationship, living arrangements, care provided) and caregivers' burden, stigma, depressive cognitions, resourcefulness, and quality of life. STUDY DESIGN: In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, a convenience sample of 60 female relatives of adults with serious mental illness provided demographic information and completed established measures of the study variables. RESULTS: We discuss associations between contextual variables and process regulators, resourcefulness, and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight the importance of targeting interventions for caregivers of adults with serious mental illness who are parents, caregivers of younger seriously mentally ill persons in earlier stages of diagnosis, and caregivers of persons who have bipolar disorder. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc, 2008; 14(2) , 125-135. DOI: 10.1177/1078390308315612
Psychiatric Mental Health Evidence-Based Practice
Authors: Rice Michael J.
Published: May 2008

This article is the first in a new column focusing on evidence-based practice (EBP) in psychiatric mental health nursing. The EBP movement was strongly influenced by a British epidemiologist, Dr. Cochrane, who advocated care based on randomized clinical controlled trials in the late 1900s. Although the majority of the EBP movement is directed toward developing clinical guidelines, the critical element focuses on the therapeutic relationship and clinical judgment associated with providing care. This column will address a clinical problem, define PICO questions, report knowledge base searches, and present existing evidence. Recommendations will be offered for potential interventions and suggestions for evaluating clinical outcomes. Nurses can no longer view clinical studies as academic exercises discarded on graduation and not applied to the clinical setting. Conscientiously applying what is known about treatments and interventions of ethical, if not legal, value is consistent with the professional definition of care. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc, 2008; 14(2) , 107-111. DOI: 10.1177/1078390308315798
Space Theft or Space Transfer
Authors: Fabiyi Oluseyi O.
Published: May 2008

The article compares the typologies of road closures and the resulting enclosed neighborhoods in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Ibadan, Nigeria, and the nature of internal democracies behind the enclosures. It uses unstructured questionnaires administered to the neighborhood associations' executive members and the spatial analysis of road closures in geographic information system databases of the two cities to describe the differences in typologies of enclosures and nonstate spatial mechanisms. When gates or barriers are retrofitted on existing public roads, it implies that the legitimate authority of the state to control space and social lives in neighborhoods is either transferred to the nonstate actors by the state through constitutional provision or hijacked (stolen) if such provisions do not exist. The article observes that space transfer by state to the community in enclosed neighborhoods is ongoing in Johannesburg, yet enclosed communities largely lack social cohesion. Space theft is common in Ibadan, as no legal control is in place.
Care staff working with people with dementia
Authors: Hughes Jane , Bagley Heather , Reilly Siobhan , Burns Alistair , Challis David
Published: May 2008

The complexity and diversity of the needs of older people in care homes presents challenges to those responsible for caring for residents, in particular nursing and care assistant staff providing the majority of direct care. This study examines the degree of knowledge and confidence of these staff in caring for people with dementia and seeks to identify factors which can contribute to greater confidence. It reveals that although staff knowledge of dementia is reasonable, confidence in dealing with related situations is lower. Results also suggest that training can positively influence staff confidence in dealing with behaviour associated with the condition, recognizing that it is one of many factors influencing performance as a paid carer. These findings are discussed in terms of the quality of care provided to residents with dementia, the forms such training might take and the importance of a work environment which facilitates on-the-job training.
Making progress in psychosocial research in dementia
Authors: Iliffe Steve , Manthorpe Jill , Warner James , Drennan Vari , Goodman Claire , Rait Greta , Kharicha Kalpa
Published: May 2008

This article describes the advent of greater research funding for the study of organizations and practice in dementia care in the UK, and the development of research infrastructures. It sets out a series of challenges that locating research in service delivery organizations may raise, and addresses issues of ethics, consent, research fatigue and pressures for results.
Engagement in activities
Authors: Vikström Sofia , Josephsson Staffan , Stigsdotter-Neely Anna , Nygård Louise
Published: May 2008

This study identifies how persons with dementia and their caregiving spouses individually perceive their own, their spouse's and their mutual engagements in everyday activities. Fifty-two cohabiting spouses, half of whom were diagnosed with dementia, were interviewed. A qualitative constant comparative analysis was performed, identifying four major themes: perceived changes in activity engagements; consequences of experienced changes; dilemmas experienced by the caregivers; and management approaches to handle a changed everyday life. Each individual described their activities to include loss of social engagements and changes in the relationship. Dilemmas experienced by the caregivers included `interfering with the spouse's engagement or not' and `placing the spouse's or one's own needs first'. The caregiver management approaches identified included `taking over' or `encouraging initiative'; `lowering demands or avoiding problematic engagements'; and `managing through collaboration'. Findings provide insight into everyday engagements for persons with dementia and their caregivers, important to healthcare support providers.
(Dis)counted Stories
Authors: Irwin Jude
Published: May 2008

Over the past three decades the issue of domestic violence in heterosexual relationships has been at the forefront of feminist activism and scholarship in the western world. Until recently there has been a reticence to explore women's violence, including violence in lesbian relationships. In this article I outline research undertaken in Australia on domestic violence in lesbian relationships, which involved interviews with 21 lesbians who identified as survivors of domestic violence. I summarize the findings of the research in order to demonstrate how the heterogeneity of lesbians' experiences poses challenges to practitioners and policy makers in health and human services to develop policy and practice that can take into account, and respond to, the different needs and interests of lesbians.
Conceptualizing Outcomes with Street-living Young Adults
Authors: Ferguson Kristin M. , Islam Nadia
Published: May 2008

This qualitative evaluation of the Social Enterprise Intervention (SEI), a vocational training program for homeless young adults, used summative focus-group data to understand clients' perceptions of outcomes as a result of SEI participation. Data from formative focus-group discussions were also used to assess the intervention process and make necessary changes during the program. Over four months, two process- and one outcomes-oriented focus-group discussions were conducted with street-living young adults in the SEI Program. Open-ended questions were used to explore perceptions of project implementation and client outcomes. Emergent outcomes-related themes include family respect, self-esteem, goal-orientation, labor and social networks, delinquent behavior and societal perceptions of homeless youth. Grounded theory is used to interpret findings and develop working hypotheses to guide future studies of vocational interventions for street-living youth.
Bosnian Women and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Muftić Lisa R. , Bouffard Leana Allen
Published: May 2008

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is increasingly viewed as a global social problem. Research examining this issue, however, generally has been limited to North America, leaving an extensive gap in the literature. This study aims to narrow this gap by examining IPV among Bosnian women. Specifically, an exploratory analysis will be structured around two important and interrelated areas: prevelance of IPV and attitudes related to IPV. Approximately 70 Bosnian women completed paper-and-pencil surveys that measured experiences and attitudes associated with IPV. Bivariate analyses were used to compare the responses of Bosnian nationals residing in Bosnia-Herzegovina ( n = 49) against the responses of Bosnian refugees residing in the United States ( n = 21). Results and suggestions for future research are presented.
Organometallic based gold decoration, formation and durability
Authors: Darque-Ceretti E. , Deram V. , Aucouturier M.
Published: May 2008

The present study proposes a complete characterisation of the liquid gold silver layer on glass, from the application of the initial product, to the final metallic film obtained. The decomposition of organometallic compounds, during the heating, has been followed using different spectroscopic methods (infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, etc.) which were coupled with thermal analyses and microscope observations (SEM, TEM, etc.). In the present paper the steps of the formation of the film will be briefly described, and a special attention is given to the study of the adhesion mechanisms which operates at the interface between the gold film and the glass substrate. Specific adhesion tests have been performed by aging the system in controlled solutions and observing the loss of adhesion after a given immersion duration. In depth concentration profiles obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry and Rutherford back-scattering spectrometry reveal, during the process, a migration of the precious metals into the substrate. That migration ensures a good adhesion for the film. That ‘diffusion’ of gold into the glass substrate does not follow the classical diffusion laws and does not seem to be the only explanation for the occurrence of a good adhesion between to two partners. The results also suggest an essential role played by flux agents as vanadium, whose interaction with the alkaline modifiers of the bulk glass constitutes a critical factor for the durability of decorations.
Time resolved spectroelectrochemistry studies for protection of heritage metals
Authors: Adriaens A. , Dowsett M.
Published: May 2008

This paper discusses the evaluation of metal conservation treatments using a specialised electrochemical cell. The cell can be deployed in a synchrotron beam line to make in situ, time resolved, measurements on heritage metal alloys undergoing processes based on immersion in aqueous treatment solutions, electrochemical treatments/measurements. The present paper focuses on two specific projects: the evaluation of corrosion potential data as a simple monitoring method during the stabilisation of cupreous objects recovered from marine environments and the development and testing of a coating to protect lead objects which is stable, reversible (i.e. easy to apply and to remove), protective against corrosion and aesthetically justified.
Chemical oxidation of Ti–6Al–4V for improved wear and corrosion resistance
Authors: Biswas A. , Srikant P. V. S. , Manna I. , Chatterjee U. K. , Dutta Majumdar J.
Published: May 2008

In the present study, chemical oxidation of Ti–6Al–4V has been carried out by dipping it in varying concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (0˙04–0˙08M) for 30 min. Chemically oxidised samples were also subjected to isothermal heat treatment in air at 400°C for one hour followed by slow cooling in the furnace. Chemical oxidation developed an oxide film on the surface of Ti–6Al–4V consisting of Ti2O3 and TiO2 (anatase), the volume fraction on anatase increases with increase in solution concentration. Subsequent heat treatment causes formation of rutile phase. The microhardness of the oxidised surface is increased to 475 VHN as compared to 290 VHN of the as received Ti–6Al–4V. Wear and corrosion resistance were improved following oxidation. It was observed that chemical treatment in 0˙08M hydrogen peroxide solution followed by heat treatment at 400°C led to a maximum improvement in wear and corrosion resistance.
Influence of visible radiation on radiometric properties of paints
Authors: Iacomussi P. , Rossi G.
Published: May 2008

It is well know that exposing a work of art to light involves an unavoidable damage: lighting of works of art must find a difficult compromise between exposition, minimal deterioration and colour perception. Colour perception is fundamental for our knowledge with the real world and in works of arts it involves at least two different aspects, the way the artist intends to transmit his or her message and our ability to receive and to interpret it. Unfortunately colour degradation is the first and most relevant perceived degradation. High accuracy spectrophotometric characterisation allows the determination of minimal colour degradation not yet perceivable at naked eye, and permits to modify the conservation parameters before damage becomes perceivable. This paper deals with the spectrophotometric characterisation of cultural heritage materials for the evaluation of colour aging properties and colour rendering under artificial lighting condition.
Surface characterisation of daguerreotypes with the optical metrological technique of confocal microscopy
Authors: Ravines P. , Wiegandt R. , Wichern C. M.
Published: May 2008

This paper presents non-perturbing techniques of optical and surface metrology applied to surface studies of daguerreotypes. Daguerreotypes are positive images developed directly on the surface of silvered copper plates. The image is a submicrometre, ultra fine structured surface that exceeds the resolving power of the optical microscope for surface examination. Confocal white light microscopy is shown to be a useful technique for examining the three-dimensional ultra fine structure of the daguerreotype image. This technique provides quantitative information of surface characteristics using established surface roughness parameters to document the daguerreotype surface. Examination at this level can measure changes due to environmentally induced deterioration and provide comparative data of before and after chemical and physical treatment. Confocal microscopy shows considerable potential in the evaluation and documentation of both daguerreotype condition and treatments performed on the image structure. Confocal microscopy was used in the close examination of the Southworth and Hawes portrait of an unidentified man and it demonstrated the ability to unambiguously identify and quantify surface damage. The daguerreotype of an unidentified woman wearing a bonnet was treated with ammonium hydroxide solution to remove tarnish and surface changes were followed with confocal microscopy.
Laser surface colouring of titanium for contemporary jewellery
Authors: O'Hana S. , Pinkerton A. J. , Shoba K. , Gale A. W. , Li L.
Published: May 2008

This paper describes work which emerged through a need to understand more about the potential of laser surface engineering for use in the creative industries. The method of creation of contemporary jewellery pieces and the resultant ‘Ocular’ jewellery series are described from the creative point of view. The work demonstrates how laser controlled oxide growth on Ti–6Al–4V alloy under ambient conditions can be used as an artistic tool by producing precisely defined colours. Use of the method to produce regular areas of even colour and to reproduce freehand drawings on a titanium alloy surface is described. Analysis highlights interference as the main colouring mechanism and suggests a graded surface layer, progressing from an outer layer of TiO2 to lower layers rich in TiO and Ti2O. The model of research by practice presented in this paper offers a contribution to the current debate on partnerships between art and science and engineering.
Steel factor coordinately regulates the molecular signature and biologic function of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Kent David G. , Dykstra Brad J. , Cheyne Jay , Ma Elaine , Eaves Connie J.
Published: May 2008

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) regenerated in vivo display sustained differences in their self-renewal and differentiation activities. Variations in Steel factor (SF) signaling are known to affect these functions in vitro, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved are not understood. To address these issues, we evaluated highly purified HSCs maintained in single-cell serum-free cultures containing 20 ng/mL IL-11 plus 1, 10, or 300 ng/mL SF. Under all conditions, more than 99% of the cells traversed a first cell cycle with similar kinetics. After 8 hours in the 10 or 300 ng/mL SF conditions, the frequency of HSCs remained unchanged. However, in the next 8 hours (ie, 6 hours before any cell divided), HSC integrity was sustained only in the 300 ng/mL SF cultures. The cells in these cultures also contained significantly higher levels of Bmi1, Lnk, and Ezh2 transcripts but not of several other regulators. Assessment of 21 first division progeny pairs further showed that only those generated in 300 ng/mL SF cultures contained HSCs and pairs of progeny with similar differentiation programs were not observed. Thus, SF signaling intensity can directly and coordinately alter the transcription factor profile and long-term repopulating ability of quiescent HSCs before their first division.
WHO classification and WPSS predict posttransplantation outcome in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome: a study from the Gruppo Italiano Trapianto di Midollo Osseo (GITMO)
Authors: Alessandrino Emilio Paolo , Della Porta Matteo Giovanni , Bacigalupo Andrea , Van Lint Maria Teresa , Falda Michele , Onida Francesco , Bernardi Massimo , Iori Anna Paola , Rambaldi Alessandro , Cerretti Raffaella , Marenco Paola , Pioltelli Pietro , Malcovati Luca , Pascutto Cristiana , Oneto Rosi , Fanin Renato , Bosi Alberto
Published: May 2008

We evaluated the impact of World Health Organization (WHO) classification and WHO classification–based Prognostic Scoring System (WPSS) on the outcome of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) between 1990 and 2006. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 80% in refractory anemias, 57% in refractory cytopenias, 51% in refractory anemia with excess blasts 1 (RAEB-1), 28% in RAEB-2, and 25% in acute leukemia from MDS (P = .001). Five-year probability of relapse was 9%, 22%, 24%, 56%, and 53%, respectively (P < .001). Five-year transplant-related mortality (TRM) was 14%, 39%, 38%, 34%, and 44%, respectively (P = .24). In multivariate analysis, WHO classification showed a significant effect on OS (P = .017) and probability of relapse (P = .01); transfusion dependency was associated with a reduced OS (P = .01) and increased TRM (P = .037), whereas WPSS showed a prognostic significance on both OS (P = .001) and probability of relapse (P < .001). In patients without excess blasts, multilineage dysplasia and transfusion dependency affected OS (P = .001 and P = .009, respectively), and were associated with an increased TRM (P = .013 and P = .031, respectively). In these patients, WPSS identified 2 groups with different OS and TRM. These data suggest that WHO classification and WPSS have a relevant prognostic value in posttransplantation outcome of MDS patients.
Molecular evolution of Cide family proteins: Novel domain formation in early vertebrates and the subsequent divergence
Authors: Wu Congyang , Zhang Yinxin , Sun Zhirong , Li Peng
Published: May 2008

Background

Cide family proteins including Cidea, Cideb and Cidec/Fsp27, contain an N-terminal CIDE-N domain that shares sequence similarity to the N-terminal CAD domain (NCD) of DNA fragmentation factors Dffa/Dff45/ICAD and Dffb/Dff40/CAD, and a unique C-terminal CIDE-C domain. We have previously shown that Cide proteins are newly emerged regulators closely associated with the development of metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and liver steatosis. They modulate many metabolic processes such as lipolysis, thermogenesis and TAG storage in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT), as well as fatty acid oxidation and lipogenesis in the liver.

Results

To understand the evolutionary process of Cide proteins and provide insight into the role of Cide proteins as potential metabolic regulators in various species, we searched various databases and performed comparative genomic analysis to study the sequence conservation, genomic structure, and phylogenetic tree of the CIDE-N and CIDE-C domains of Cide proteins. As a result, we identified signature sequences for the N-terminal region of Dffa, Dffb and Cide proteins and CIDE-C domain of Cide proteins, and observed that sequences homologous to CIDE-N domain displays a wide phylogenetic distribution in species ranging from lower organisms such as hydra (Hydra vulgaris) and sea anemone (Nematostella vectensis) to mammals, whereas the CIDE-C domain exists only in vertebrates. Further analysis of their genomic structures showed that although evolution of the ancestral CIDE-N domain had undergone different intron insertions to various positions in the domain among invertebrates, the genomic structure ofCidefamily in vertebrates is stable with conserved intron phase.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, we speculate that in early vertebrates CIDE-N domain was evolved from the duplication of NCD of Dffa. The CIDE-N domain somehow acquired the CIDE-C domain that was formed around the same time, subsequently generating the Cide protein. Subsequent duplication and evolution have led to the formation of different Cide family proteins that play unique roles in the control of metabolic pathways in different tissues.
Trait-trait dynamic interaction: 2D-trait eQTL mapping for genetic variation study
Authors: Sun Wei , Yuan Shinsheng , Li Ker-Chau
Published: May 2008

Background

Many studies have shown that the abundance level of gene expression is heritable. Analogous to the traditional genetic study, most researchers treat the expression of one gene as a quantitative trait and map it to expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL). This is 1D-trait mapping. 1D-trait mapping ignores the trait-trait interaction completely, which is a major shortcoming.

Results

To overcome this limitation, we study the expression of a pair of genes and treat the variation in their co-expression pattern as a two dimensional quantitative trait. We develop a method to find gene pairs, whose co-expression patterns, including both signs and strengths, are mediated by genetic variations and map these 2D-traits to the corresponding genetic loci. We report several applications by combining 1D-trait mapping with 2D-trait mapping, including the contribution of genetic variations to the perturbations in the regulatory mechanisms of yeast metabolic pathways.

Conclusion

Our approach of 2D-trait mapping provides a novel and effective way to connect the genetic variation with higher order biological modules via gene expression profiles.