bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The micropolitics of responsibility vis‐à‐vis autonomy: parental accounts of childhood genetic testing and (non)disclosure
Authors: Arribas‐Ayllon Michael , Sarangi Srikant , Clarke Angus
Published: January 2009

Genetic testing and (non)disclosure of genetic information present ethical and moral dilemmas for the management of parental responsibility vis‐à‐vis the child's autonomy. Ethical guidelines aimed at professionals currently seek to defer childhood testing where there is no clear medical or psychosocial benefit. This version of autonomy is derived from a bioethical paradigm which brackets the individual rights and capacities of the child. In this paper we focus on situated parental accounts of responsibility/autonomy to understand the complex forms of relational work –i.e.the micropolitics of balancing rights and responsibilities – involving a range of inherited genetic disorders. Interviews (n= 20) were conducted with parents whose genetic condition may have had consequences for their children. Using rhetorical discourse analysis, we show how parents draw upon a number of rhetorical/discoursal devices to produce accounts where genetic responsibility is actually or potentially transmitted to the child. We identify three kinds of accounting practice: (1) aligned responsibility; (2) deferred responsibility; and (3) misaligned responsibility. Each of these practices demonstrates how parents position themselves responsibly by foregrounding figures and events onto which the child's autonomy is selectively mapped. Rather than simple representations, we regard these accounts as complex moral performances that seek alignment with broader bioethical discourses.
Long‐term health conditions and Disability Living Allowance: exploring ethnic differences and similarities in access
Authors: Salway Sarah , Platt Lucinda , Harriss Kaveri , Chowbey Punita
Published: January 2009

Long‐term health conditions affect a substantial proportion of working‐age adults, often reducing their employment chances and their incomes. As a result, welfare benefits including those intended to off‐set additional expenditure (primarily Disability Living Allowance [DLA]) can make an essential contribution towards maintaining living standards. Given the differences in rates of long‐term health conditions for different ethnic groups, issues of access to relevant benefits may be particularly salient for certain communities. We lack, however, detailed examination of the factors that influence take‐up of DLA across ethnic groups. In this paper, secondary analysis of Labour Force Survey data is combined with detailed new qualitative work, to examine patterns of receipt and issues of access to DLA across four ethnic groups. DLA receipt among individuals reporting long‐term health conditions is low; but Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Black African individuals have significantly lower levels of receipt than White British respondents with comparable health and socioeconomic characteristics. Common factors that appeared to discourage DLA claims across the ethnic groups considered included: a desire to conceal impairment and a reluctance to assume a ‘disabled’ identity; limited benefit knowledge or specialist support; perceptions that the benefits system is complex and stressful; and concerns about the legitimacy of claiming. But our findings also suggest differences between the groups. For example, ‘being’ Ghanaian appeared to place particular constraints upon the assumption of a disabled identity. Ethnic identity also implied processes of inclusion and exclusion in social networks resulting in differential access to information and ‘know‐how’ in relation to the benefits system. Policy clearly has a role in legitimising claiming and improving accurate information flows and thereby improving take‐up of benefit among those in great need.
Hospice or home? Expectations of end‐of‐life care among white and Chinese older people in the UK
Authors: Seymour Jane , Payne Sheila , Chapman Alice , Holloway Margaret
Published: January 2009

This paper presents findings from two linked studies of white (n = 77) and Chinese (n = 92) older adults living in the UK, which sought their views about end‐of‐life care. We focus particularly on experiences and expectations in relation to the provision of end‐of‐life care at home and in hospices. White elders perceived hospices in idealised terms which resonate with a ‘revivalist’ discourse of the ‘good death’. In marked comparison, for those Chinese elders who had heard of them, hospices were regarded as repositories of ‘inauspicious’ care in which opportunities for achieving an appropriate or good death were limited. They instead expressed preference for the medicalised environment of the hospital. Among both groups these different preferences for instututional death seemed to be related to shared concerns about the demands on the family that may flow from having to manage pain, suffering and the dying body within the domestic space. These concerns, which appeared to be based on largely practical considerations among the white elders, were expressed by Chinese elders as beliefs about ‘contamination’ of the domestic home (and, by implication, of the family) by the dying and dead body.
Describing depression: ethnicity and the use of somatic imagery in accounts of mental distress
Authors: Mallinson Sara , Popay Jennie
Published: January 2009

Past research has suggested that there are significant differences in the prevalence and progress of anxiety and depression in different ethnic groups in England and that patterns of help seeking also differ. In parallel, research has also reported distinctive differences in the language and representations of mental distress across different ethnic groups. Differences both in the expression of depression and underlying conceptual models of mental health and illness may be part of the explanation for different patterns of help seeking, as the accounts people give of their experience of health and illness, including the meaning they attach to symptoms and signs for example, have been shown to be an important mediator of the action they take to protect their health or to respond to ill health. In this paper we will use evidence from recent mixed‐method research with people of Pakistani origin and white people living in a locality in northwest England to explore the constructions and representations of mental distress, and in particular the physical imagery and ‘somatic metaphors’ of narratives used by our respondents, and consider how these data might illuminate debates about the experience of mental ill health and help‐seeking practices.
The ‘loss of community’ and other problems for sexual citizenship in recent HIV prevention
Authors: Davis Mark
Published: January 2009

Increases in reported unsafe sex among gay men have been explained as resistance to HIV prevention, or most recently, with the idea that a hyper‐individualisation of sexual action contributes to the loss of sexual community. This turning in HIV prevention has come to focus on the sexual action of gay men with HIV through the frames of: sexual transgression, sometimes called ‘barebacking’; and altruism. Adopting the perspective of sexual citizenship in connection with qualitative interviews, this paper considers how gay men with HIV account for their sexual practice in light of the dual discourse of transgression/altruism. The paper will argue that gay men with HIV are deeply aware of what transgression/altruism implies for their identities and sexual relations, indicating the continued salience of community for sexual practice. Further, in the circumstances of blaming in relation to the moral labour of safer sex, gay men with HIV are trying to work out a co‐operative practice for HIV prevention based on self‐care, a moderated altruism and the voluntary action of sexual partners.
Professional legitimacy claims in the multidisciplinary workplace: the case of heart failure care
Authors: Sanders Tom , Harrison Stephen
Published: January 2009

The pattern of occupations engaged in the care of patients has grown steadily more complex, and is characterised by the creation of new occupations, additional specialisation within existing occupations, and extensions to existing occupational roles. This paper presents empirical data from a study of professionals working with heart failure patients in the English National Health Service, focusing on the discourses employed by nurses and by three different specialties within medicine to legitimise their occupational boundaries. We identify four themes that characterise such discourses, specialised expertise, competence, organisational efficiency and patient‐centredness, though these are deployed to different degrees by the different professions. The findings point to a theory of ‘occupational legitimation talk’ in which newer occupations utilise a wider set of legitimacy claims as a means of strengthening their role and credibility within an increasingly complex and fluid healthcare environment.
External shock waves therapy in dystonia: preliminary results
Authors: Trompetto C. , Avanzino L. , Bove M. , Marinelli L. , Molfetta L. , Trentini R. , Abbruzzese G.
Published: January 2009

Background and purpose:  Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been shown to reduce hypertonia in patients with upper motor neuron syndrome without any side effect. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether ESWT could be useful also in patients with dystonia.

Methods:  We evaluated three patients with secondary dystonia and three patients with idiopathic writer’s cramp. Placebo treatment was performed in each patient. ESWT was administered during four sessions (once weekly) to the target muscles of hand and forearm using an electromagnetic lithotripter (Modulith SLK – Storz Medical). Clinical evaluation was performed using the Unified Dystonia Rating Scale in patients with secondary dystonia and the Arm Dystonia Disability Scale in patients with writer’s cramp.

Results:  After treatment, the three patients with secondary dystonia showed a marked improvement which lasted at least until 1 month after the last session. In the patients with writer’s cramp, the improvement after ESWT was less consistent being effective only in two subjects. There were no associated adverse effects.

Conclusions:  Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is probably an effective and safe treatment for upper limb dystonia, particularly for the secondary forms. Larger randomized studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results.
EU Integration & Emigration Consequences: The Case of Lithuania
Authors: Thaut Laura
Published: January 2009

This paper analyses the causes, consequences, and policy implications of Lithuanian emigration following the country’s European Union (EU) accession in May 2004. After placing Lithuanian emigration in its historical context, the study assesses the recent dynamics, including the driving forces and characteristics of Lithuanian emigration at both the international and domestic level. The study finds that the primary determinants of this movement are both demand‐ and supply‐side factors. On the demand side, the labour shortages, decline in the working age population, and desire for cheaper labour in Western European countries function to attract Lithuanian labour. Concurrently, lower wages, higher unemployment, and the generally less developed economic conditions in Lithuania are encouraging Lithuanians to take advantage of the greater mobility that came with EU accession. The expanding networks linking migrants and potential migrants are facilitating this out‐migration, as well as the social mind‐set by which emigration is a perceived solution to socio‐economic difficulties. This study concludes that the consequences of this new emigration reality are mixed. The free movement of workers has helped to relieve pressure on the domestic labour market, drive down unemployment, place upward pressure on wages, and increase the remittances rate to Lithuania. However, concern is not ill‐founded; recent emigration has introduced labour market shortages, placed greater demographic pressure on the country, and increased the likelihood of brain drain. This study argues, therefore, that while Lithuanian emigration cannot and should not be stopped, Lithuania does have policy alternatives as a sending‐country that will help to mitigate the costs of emigration and maximize the benefits for the country’s long‐term development.
Exploring biophysical potential and sustainability of wheat cultivation in Uruguay at the national level
Authors: Mantel S. , Van Engelen V.W.P. , Molfino J.H. , Resink J.W.
Published: January 2009

Abstract. A methodology is presented that explores soil survey information at the national level (1:1 M), generating sustainability indicators for wheat cultivation in Uruguay. Potential yields were calculated for simplified crop production situations under several constraints, such as limitation of water availability calculated from soil physical properties and climatic conditions, and limitation of nutrient availability calculated from soil fertility and climatic conditions. Land quality sufficiency was examined by comparing these yields with the constraint‐free yield conditioned only by solar radiation, temperature and the crop's photosynthetic properties. Crop growth was simulated only for areas suitable for the defined agricultural use. Model runs were repeated with inclusion of a topsoil loss scenario over 20 years as defined from an erosion risk analysis. Comparison between crop growth simulations for the two situations, gives an indication of the changes in land quality status, which supplies an indicator for agroecological sustainability.

On the basis of crop growth simulation it is concluded that wheat production constraints in Uruguay appear to be mainly related to water availability limitations, while nutrient availability is near optimal for the suitable soils. The simulated loss of topsoil impacts most on soil physical properties, expressed in reduced water‐limited yields. Soil fertility status, evaluated by change in nutrient‐limited yields, was little affected by the scenario.
Constructing a Narrative: The History of Science and Technology in Latin America
Authors: Portuondo María
Published: January 2009

This article provides a general introduction to the historiography of the history of science and technology in Latin America and presents an overview of the field's principal themes, with especial focus on how these have been addressed in English‐language historical works. It engages the problems associated with constructing synthetic historical narratives and suggests ways of addressing these by using micro‐histories to explain the relationship between the local, the national, and the transnational within the analytical framework afforded by intellectual history, history of science and of technology.
Family, the State, and Law in Early Modern and Revolutionary France
Authors: Gerber Matthew
Published: January 2009

Over the past two decades, feminist historians of early modern and revolutionary France have succeeded in pushing the history of the family in a political direction. They have achieved this not only by highlighting the centrality of the family to early modern and revolutionary political culture, but also by elucidating the ways that families and the state have reshaped one another over time through the medium of law and legal culture. Although the most prominent political histories of the family concern the abrupt shifts wrought by the French Revolution, specialists in early modern France have also charted important if less dramatic changes in the relationship between families and state. Comparing early modern and revolutionary changes to family law reveals that the Revolution not only offered a new but contested republican model of the family, it also changed the practical negotiations through which law is made and remade.
Reflections on Writing Comparative and Transnational Labour History
Authors: Bennett James
Published: January 2009

Calls to reposition both Australian and New Zealand history in a broader regional and global context are not new, but have intensified in more recent times. The turn toward transnational narratives in the contemporary academy is a valuable complement to comparative analysis, and both are important in thinking beyond traditional notions of bounded local space. Two areas in which transnational methodology has been particularly to the fore are the ‘new’ imperial history and American history that looks beyond the conventional paradigm of national exceptionalism. The networks of mobility and exchange sketched out by scholars working in these fields offer some useful insights for the transnational labour history project which is still at an early phase of development. This paper highlights the possibilities and potential problems attending the writing of transnational and comparative labour history, and in so doing offers some reflections on the broader question of knowledge production.
Study of Structural and Electrical Properties of Conventional Furnace and Microwave‐Sintered BaZr0.10Ti0.90O3 Ceramics
Authors: Mahajan Sandeep , Thakur Om P. , Bhattacharya Dilip K. , Sreenivas Kondapudy
Published: January 2009

Structural, dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties of Zirconium‐doped barium titanate (BaZr0.10Ti0.90O3) ceramics prepared by microwave (MWS) and conventional (CS) sintering process are compared. X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy indicate clearly the structural changes and confirm the effective diffusion of zirconium with the MWS technique to form BZT. Scanning electron microscopy reveals a fine grain, and a dense microstructure in the MWS ceramics processed under 4 h of cycle time (including heating, cooling, and holding time) in comparison with CS requiring 22 h. At room temperature the microwave sintered samples exhibit improved electrical properties exhibiting higher resistivity, higher dielectric constant, a lower dielectric loss, and a reduced dependence on frequency. Impedance and electric modulus spectroscopy analysis in the frequency range (40 Hz–1 MHz) and high‐temperature range (573–873 K) suggests two relaxation processes attributed to bulk and grain boundary effects in the impedance plots for the both MWS and CS ceramics. The microwave‐sintered BZT ceramics are found to be more attractive for room temperature device applications with improved properties, however, at higher temperatures they tend to degrade in comparison with the CS ceramics.
Refined Model of Electromigration of Ag/Pd Electrodes in Multilayer PZT Ceramics Under Extreme Humidity
Authors: Donnelly Niall J. , Randall Clive A.
Published: January 2009

The phenomenon of silver electromigration has been examined in multilayer structures comprised of a low‐firing PZT‐based ceramic with inner Ag1−xPdx electrodes (0<x<0.3). Under high humidity and dc bias, the time‐to‐failure was found to increase significantly with Pd content for x>0.1. Failed samples exhibited metallic‐like transport properties including Ohmic behavior and a low temperature coefficient of resistance. Subsequently, electron microscopy of cross‐sectioned samples revealed high concentrations of Ag in grain boundaries confirming Ag migration as the failure mechanism. Furthermore, it was found that the failure rate did not improve substantially by replacing a pure Ag anode with a higher Pd composition. This observation appears to conflict with previous conceptual models in which Ag migration originates mainly from the anode. It is suggested that Ag diffusion during sintering results in a background concentration of Ag within the ceramic which later contributes to the electrolytic flux of Ag+ ions under high humidity. This effect may be more apparent in low temperature sintered materials where residual grain boundary phases become vulnerable pathways for moisture penetration.
The Influence of Coatings on the Performance of Structural Heat Pipes for Hypersonic Leading Edges
Authors: Steeves Craig A. , He Ming Y. , Evans Anthony G.
Published: January 2009

Previous analyses have shown that refractory metallic leading edges are feasible for Mach 6–8 airbreathing hypersonic vehicles when integrated with a structural heat pipe. This article investigates the effects of a coating on the exterior surface for potential thermal and environmental protection. Two conclusions are found: (i) Adding a thermal barrier coating does not allow operation at higher Mach number because the characteristic temperature of the system is unaffected by its presence. Instead, large (adverse) temperature gradients are induced through the coating. (ii) Coatings required to protect against oxidation can be safely applied provided that they are thin (≤0.1 mm) and have sufficiently high thermal conductivity (≥5 W/mK).
Distinguishing Between Damage to Clothing as a Result of Normal Wear and Tear or as a Result of Deliberate Damage: A Sexual Assault Case Study
Authors: Daly Dyan J. , Lee‐Gorman Marce A. , Ryan Jennifer
Published: January 2009

Abstract: This paper focuses on bra damage, specifically damage observed in hook and eye fasteners that are generally located at the backstraps of bras. We describe bra design including the method by which hook and eye fasteners are generally constructed. We assess bra damage in two situations where the damage observed was unexpected given the case scenarios. These were: (i) the complainant of an alleged rape attributed damage to her bra hooks to force during a struggle and (ii) the complainant had earlier manipulated her bra hooks in an incident not related to her complaint. Steriomicroscopy and reconstruction experimentation were necessarily used to assess the bra damage. A systematic approach to damage analysis was employed by the forensic practitioners to correctly identify damage as being a result of mechanical manipulation and therefore as falsified. This paper suggests that more examples of falsified damage should be documented.
Developmental Validation of the Quantifiler® Duo DNA Quantification Kit for Simultaneous Quantification of Total Human and Human Male DNA and Detection of PCR Inhibitors in Biological Samples*
Authors: Barbisin Maura , Fang Rixun , O’Shea Cristin E. , Calandro Lisa M. , Furtado Manohar R. , Shewale Jaiprakash G.
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  The Quantifiler® Duo DNA Quantification kit enables simultaneous quantification of human DNA and human male DNA as well as detection of inhibitors of PCR in a single real‐time PCR well. Pooled human male genomic DNA is used to generate standard curves for both human (ribonuclease P RNA component H1) and human male (sex determining region Y) specific targets. A shift in the cycle threshold (CT) values for the internal positive control monitors the presence of PCR inhibitors in a sample. The assay is human specific and exhibits a high dynamic range from 0.023 to 50 ng/μL. In addition, the multiplex assay can detect as little as 25 pg/μL of human male DNA in the presence of a 1000‐fold excess of human female DNA. The multiplex assay provides assessment of the DNA extract and guidance for the selection of the appropriate AmpFℓSTR® Amplification Kit to obtain interpretable short tandem repeat profiles.
Normas del trabajo y complementariedad de los ordenamientos nacionales con el derecho internacional
Authors: Gravel Eric , Delpech Quentin
Published: January 2009

Los ordenamientos laborales nacionales y el derecho internacional del trabajo no son ni de lejos antagónicos, pues se encuentran muy entreverados. Prueba de ello es que algunos tribunales superiores nacionales han aplicado las normas de la OIT en varias sentencias recientes. Los autores averiguan las circunstancias en que han acaecido hechos de esta índole, así como sus consecuencias. Para ello estudian dos sentencias del Tribunal Supremo del Canadá sobre la libertad sindical y otra del Tribunal de Apelación de París sobre el contrato de trabajo, todas relativas a asuntos que fueron tratados también en el plano internacional por la OIT. Escogen países con tradiciones jurídicas distintas, lo cual propicia el análisis de la «apropiación» del derecho internacional del trabajo por las jurisdicciones nacionales.
Desigualdad y globalización financiera, en un informe que llega justo a tiempo
Authors: Bollé Patrick
Published: January 2009

Presentamos una nueva publicación anual del Instituto Internacional de Estudios Laborales de la OIT, el Informe mundial del trabajo, cuyaprimera entrega versa sobre las desigualdades de renta. Su aparición en plena tormenta financiera, a finales de octubre de 2008, no podía ser más oportuna: todo el planeta estaba pendiente de la crisis y preguntándose, con temor, cuáles serían su alcance, duración y consecuencias económicas y sociales. El estudio trata de los factores causantes de las desigualdades de renta, que no dejan de agravarse en el mundo. Sitúa el problema de la desigualdad en el marco de la globalización de las finanzas, el funcionamiento del mercado de trabajo, las características de los nuevos empleos y las políticas de redistribución de la riqueza.
A new autosomal dominant Peters’ anomaly phenotype expanding the anterior segment dysgenesis spectrum
Authors: Berker Nilufer , Alanay Yasemin , Elgin Ufuk , Volkan‐Salanci Bilge , Simsek Tulay , Akarsu Nurten , Alikasifoglu Mehmet
Published: January 2009

Purpose:  To test the association of genes involved in anterior segment development in a family with autosomal dominantly inherited Peters’ anomaly (PA) with a unique ocular phenotype.

Methods:  Six members of a five‐generation family with PA were extensively phenotyped and linkage analysis of candidate genes, namely, PAX6, PITX2, FOXC1, CYP1B1 and MAF, was performed.

Results:  The complete pedigree consisted of 38 members, 19 of whom were affected. The six probands examined had bilateral microcornea, corneal opacity, iridocorneal adhesions, nystagmus and strabismus, but cataract, keratolenticular adhesions, glaucoma and posterior embryotoxon were absent. PAX6 gene mutations had been previously excluded in one of the affected members. DNA markers for candidate genes CYP1B1 on 2p22, PITX2 on 4q25, PAX6 on 11p13, MAF on 16q23 and FOXC1 on 6p25 were genotyped. Highly negative lod scores were obtained for all markers.

Conclusions:  The exclusion of these genes as likely candidates supports the hypothesis that the ocular phenotype associated with PA segregating in this family is a distinct, new, autosomal dominant entity in the anterior segment dysgenesis spectrum.
Global Family Concerns and the Role of Family Life Education: An Ecosystemic Analysis
Authors: Darling Carol A. , Turkki Kaija
Published: January 2009

We surveyed colleagues from 4 international professional organizations involved with families in order to examine global family concerns and the role of family life education from an ecosystemic perspective. Our sample represented 6 continents and 50 countries. Survey results indicated that family education and related coursework were available in all continents along with considerable public interest in family education. International public concern about family issues was related to population characteristics, values related to parenting and childrearing, interest in family and health legislation/regulations, and public interest in family, parent, and marriage education.
An Examination of Family Communication Within the Core and Balance Model of Family Leisure Functioning
Authors: Smith Kevin M. , Freeman Patti A. , Zabriskie Ramon B.
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this study was to examine family communication within the core and balance model of family leisure functioning. The study was conducted from a youth perspective of family leisure and family functioning. The sample consisted of youth (N= 95) aged 11 – 17 from 25 different states in the United States. Path analyses indicated that family communication mediated a positive relationship between family leisure variables and family functioning variables. Implications and recommendations are discussed. The addition of communication in the Core and Balance Model is recommended.
Midlife Singles’ Willingness to Date Partners With Heterogeneous Characteristics
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jacki , Sharp Elizabeth A. , Reifman Alan
Published: January 2009

This study was a secondary data analysis of a midlife adults’ (40 – 69 years) survey. The sample (N= 3,501) was recruited via telephone and completed an American Association for Retired Persons survey via the Internet. This study explored how sexual attitudes and demographic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, prior marital status) were associated with willingness to date heterogeneous partners (e.g., date partners of a different race, religion, with much less money). Results showed that never‐married singles, men, and sexually permissive individuals were more willing to date such partners. Implications for research and practice are noted.
Family and Nonfamily Role Configurations in Two British Cohorts
Authors: Ross Andy , Schoon Ingrid , Martin Peter , Sacker Amanda
Published: January 2009

The aim of this paper is to examine variations in the combination of social roles during times of social change. We specify a latent class approach to examine role configurations for individuals in their early 30s, establishing a typology of how work‐ and family‐related roles combine within individuals born 12 years apart and examine their antecedents. Drawing on data collected for two British Birth Cohorts born in 1958 (N= 10,706) and 1970 (N= 11,005), we provide empirical evidence of both consistency and change in life course patterns. Findings are discussed in terms of destandardization, differentiation, and individualization of the life course in times of social change and their implications for family research within a life course perspective.
Change in Work‐Family Conflict Among Employed Parents Between 1977 and 1997
Authors: Nomaguchi Kei M.
Published: January 2009

Using data from two national surveys (N = 2,050), this paper examines what accounts for the increase in the sense of work‐family conflict among employed parents between 1977 and 1997. Decomposition analysis indicates that the increases in women’s labor force participation, college education, time pressure in completing one’s job, and the decline in free time were related to the increase. Fathers in dual‐earner marriages experienced a particular increase in work‐family conflict. With the same amount of time spent with children, parents felt greater work‐family conflict in 1997 than in 1977. Although masked by the overall increase, some trends, such as the increases in intrinsic job rewards, time with children, and egalitarian gender attitudes, contributed to a decline in work‐family conflict.
Does Parenthood Strengthen a Traditional Household Division of Labor? Evidence From Sweden
Authors: Dribe Martin , Stanfors Maria
Published: January 2009

Parenthood is often considered a major factor behind gender differences in time allocation, especially between paid work and housework. This article investigates the impact of parenthood on men’s and women’s daily time use in Sweden and how it changed over the 1990s. The analysis is made using time diary data from the Multinational Time Use Survey (MTUS;N= 13,729) and multivariate Tobit regressions. The results indicate that while parenthood in 1990 – 1991 clearly strengthened the traditional gender division of labor in the household, this was much less the case in 2000 – 2001, when parenthood affected men and women in a more similar way.
The Role of Religion in Adolescence for Family Formation in Young Adulthood
Authors: Eggebeen David , Dew Jeffrey
Published: January 2009

This paper examines the role of religion in adolescence for shaping subsequent family formation. Data were drawn from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (N = 13,895). We explored the role of three dimensions of religious life—affiliation, attendance, and religious fervor—both singly and in combination for the transition to either marriage or cohabitation. Although each dimension predicted subsequent union formation, it was the particular combination of these dimensions that was important for understanding the likelihood of cohabiting. We also found evidence that patterns of religious identity, attendance, and fervor in adolescence were associated with the length of cohabitation, the likelihood of the cohabitation ending in marriage, and beliefs about the purpose of cohabitation.
A facile method for expression and purification of the Alzheimer’s disease‐associated amyloid β‐peptide
Authors: Walsh Dominic M. , Thulin Eva , Minogue Aedín M. , Gustavsson Niklas , Pang Eric , Teplow David B. , Linse Sara
Published: January 2009

We report the development of a high‐level bacterial expression system for the Alzheimer’s disease‐associated amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ), together with a scaleable and inexpensive purification procedure. Aβ(1–40) and Aβ(1–42) coding sequences together with added ATG codons were cloned directly into a Pet vector to facilitate production of Met‐Aβ(1–40) and Met‐Aβ(1–42), referred to as Aβ(Μ1–40) and Aβ(Μ1–42), respectively. The expression sequences were designed using codons preferred by Escherichia coli, and the two peptides were expressed in this host in inclusion bodies. Peptides were purified from inclusion bodies using a combination of anion‐exchange chromatography and centrifugal filtration. The method described requires little specialized equipment and provides a facile and inexpensive procedure for production of large amounts of very pure Aβ peptides. Recombinant peptides generated using this protocol produced amyloid fibrils that were indistinguishable from those formed by chemically synthesized Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42. Formation of fibrils by all peptides was concentration‐dependent, and exhibited kinetics typical of a nucleation‐dependent polymerization reaction. Recombinant and synthetic peptides exhibited a similar toxic effect on hippocampal neurons, with acute treatment causing inhibition of MTT reduction, and chronic treatment resulting in neuritic degeneration and cell loss.
Autophagy inhibits reactive oxygen species‐mediated apoptosis via activating p38‐nuclear factor‐kappa B survival pathways in oridonin‐treated murine fibrosarcoma L929 cells
Authors: Cheng Yan , Qiu Feng , Ye Yuan‐Chao , Guo Zhao‐Ming , Tashiro Shin‐Ichi , Onodera Satoshi , Ikejima Takashi
Published: January 2009

Autophagy and apoptosis have been known to be interconnected positively or negatively; however, the molecular mechanisms mediating these two cellular processes are not fully understood. In the present study, we demonstrated that the exposure of L929 cells to oridonin led to intracellular reactive oxygen species generation, followed by lipid peroxidation, as well as decreases in superoxide dismutase and glutathione activities. The reactive oxygen species scavenger N‐acetyl‐cysteine resulted in the complete inhibition of oridonin‐induced apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential collapse. We showed that reactive oxygen species triggered apoptosis by Bax translocation, cytochrome c release and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase activation. Further data confirmed that oridonin also induced L929 cell autophagy, as demonstrated by extensive autophagic vacuolization and the punctuate distribution of monodansylcadaverine staining and GFP‐LC3, as well as the LC3‐II/LC3‐I proportion and Beclin 1 activation. Subsequently, we found that inhibition of autophagy by 3‐methyladenine or small interfering RNA against LC3 and Beclin 1 promoted oridonin‐induced cell apoptosis. The effects of p38 and nuclear factor‐kappa B in oridonin‐induced apoptosis and autophagy were further examined. Interruption of p38 and nuclear factor‐kappa B activation by specific inhibitors or small interfering RNAs promoted apoptosis and reactive oxygen species generation, but decreased autophagy. Moreover, we showed that inhibition of autophagy reduced oridonin‐induced activation of p38. Additionally, nuclear factor‐kappa B activation was inhibited by blocking the p38 pathway. Consequently, these findings indicate that oridonin‐induced L929 cell apoptosis is regulated by reactive oxygen species‐mediated signaling pathways, and that oridonin‐induced autophagy may block apoptosis by up‐regulating p38 and nuclear factor‐kappa B activation.
Men, Intimacy, and Eroticism
Authors: McCarthy Barry , Thestrup Maria
Published: January 2009

Introduction

We present a conceptual/clinical article focused on the Good-Enough Sex model of male and couple sexuality. This offers a comprehensive, integrative couple approach to understanding and treating male sexual dysfunction.

Aim

To examine the couple biopsychosocial approach to assessing and treating male sexual dysfunction. The focus is integrating intimacy and eroticism as the man and the relationship age.

Methods

The clinical case example examines the role of integrating intimacy and eroticism as the man and the relationship mature. The role of the clinician in helping the man and couple develop positive, realistic sexual expectations is crucial in both the change process and relapse prevention.

Main Outcome Measures

The clinical assessment of the man and couple focuses specifically on the interplay of desire, erection, intercourse, and orgasm.

Results

The man and couple valuing each other as intimate, erotic partners, and adopting the Good-Enough Sex model rather than clinging to the pass–fail perfect intercourse performance criterion are crucial for therapeutic success.

Conclusions

When couples stop being sexual, it is almost always the man’s decision—he has lost confidence with arousal, intercourse, and orgasm. Men and couples who adopt the Good-Enough Sex model are well positioned to ensure pleasurable, satisfying sexuality into their 60s, 70s, and 80s.
Two Years of Testosterone Therapy Associated with Decline in Prostate-Specific Antigen in a Man with Untreated Prostate Cancer
Authors: Morgentaler Abraham
Published: January 2009

Introduction

Testosterone (T) therapy has long been considered contraindicated in men with prostate cancer (PCa). However, the traditional view regarding the relationship of T to PCa has come under new scrutiny, with recent reports suggesting that PCa growth may not be greatly affected by variations in serum T within the near-physiologic range.

Aim

This report details the clinical and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response of a man with untreated PCa treated with T therapy for 2 years.

Methods

Measurements of serum PSA, total and free T concentrations were obtained at regular intervals at baseline and following initiation of T therapy.

Main Outcome Measure

Serum PSA during T therapy.

Results

An 84-year-old man was seen for symptoms of hypogonadism, with serum total T within the normal range at 400 ng/dL, but with a reduced free T of 7.4 pg/mL (radioimmunoassay [RIA], reference range 10.0–55.0). PSA was 8.5 ng/mL, and 8.1 ng/mL when repeated. Prostate biopsy revealed Gleason 6 cancer in both lobes. He refused treatment for PCa, but requested T therapy, which was initiated with T gel after informed consent regarding possible cancer progression. Serum T increased to a mean value of 699 ng/dL and free T to 17.1 pg/mL. PSA declined to a nadir of 5.2 ng/mL at 10 months, increased slightly to 6.2 ng/mL at 21 months, and then declined to 3.8 ng/mL at 24 months after addition of dutasteride for voiding symptoms. No clinical PCa progression was noted.

Conclusion

A decline in PSA was noted in a man with untreated PCa who received T therapy for 2 years. This case provides support for the notion that PCa growth may not be adversely affected by changes in serum T beyond the castrate or near-castrate range.
The Potential Role of the Heme Oxygenase/Carbon Monoxide System in Male Sexual Dysfunctions
Authors: Shamloul Rany
Published: January 2009

Introduction

Recently there has been a growing interest regarding the role of carbon monoxide (CO) and its precursor, heme oxygenase (HO) in mediation of penile erection and their potential roles as molecular targets in treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Aim

To review the available literature on the role of the HO/CO system in male sexual dysfunctions.

Methods

This review will begin by a discussion of the physiology of the HO/CO system followed by a detailed assessment of the literature examining the role of HO/CO system in male sexual dysfunctions.

Main Outcome Measures

The effect of HO/CO system on penile erection, ejaculation, and priapism.

Results

Most of the studies attempting to investigate the role of HO/CO in male sexual functions focused on penile erection. The majority of these studies did report a significant positive effect of the HO/CO system on penile erection. However, none of these studies examined the role of HO/CO system in aging animals; aging being considered the most important risk factor for ED. Furthermore, only one study tested the role of HO/CO system in erectile function. The important observation that HO-2 deficient mice have low bulbospongiosus muscle activity deserves extensive research on the value of HO inhibition in the treatment of premature ejaculation. Data from the only study on low-flow priapism and HO suggests that HO-1 is involved in the paradigm of low-flow priapism.

Conclusions

The HO/CO system may have an important role in many male sexual functions. Extensive research is needed to precisely delineate the extent to which the HO/CO system plays in the physiology and pathophysiology of male sexual dysfunctions.
Modulation of Lipid Metabolism by Centella Asiatica in Oxidative Stress Rats
Authors: Hussin M. , Hamid A.A. , Mohamad S. , Saari N. , Bakar F. , Dek S.P.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT:  A study was carried out to investigate the effects of Centella asiatica leaf on lipid metabolism of oxidative stress rats. The rats were fed 0.1% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with either 0.3% (w/w) C. asiatica extract, 5%C. asiatica powder (w/w), or 0.3% (w/w) α‐tocopherol for 25 wk. Results of the study showed that C. asiatica powder significantly (P < 0.05) lowered serum low‐density lipoprotein compared to that of control rats (rats fed H2O2 only). At the end of the study C. asiatica‐fed rats were also found to have significantly (P < 0.05) higher high‐density lipoprotein and lower triglyceride level compared to rats fed only normal diet. However, cholesterol level of rats fed both C. asiatica extract and powder was found to be significantly (P < 0.05) higher compared to that of control rats. It was interesting to note that consumption of C. asiatica significantly decreased body and liver weights of the rats. Histological examinations revealed no obvious changes in all rats studied. Quantitative analysis of C. asiatica leaf revealed high concentration of total phenolic compounds, in particular, catechin, quercetin, and rutin.
To Explant or Not to Explant: An Invasive and Noninvasive Monitoring Protocol to Determine the Need of Continued Ventricular Assist Device Support
Authors: Osaki Satoru , Sweitzer Nancy K. , Rahko Peter S. , Murray Margaret A. , Hoffmann Jennifer A. , Johnson Maryl R. , Edwards Niloo M. , Kohmoto Takushi
Published: January 2009

Predictors of myocardial recovery after ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation are not well defined. The authors report their current VAD weaning protocol. Between 2003 and 2006, 38 patients received VAD implants. The authors performed 5 tests in 4 patients in whom echocardiography findings suggested myocardial recovery after implant. The protocol consists of assessing symptoms, electrocardiographic findings, hemodynamics, and cardiac function at baseline and as VAD support is weaned. As a result, 3 patients passed the weaning protocol and were explanted. There has been no recurrence of heart failure 667, 752, and 1007 days after explant, respectively. One patient failed the protocol after 151 days of support because of low cardiac index during the protocol. This patient was transplanted. This current experience of VAD weaning protocol is a novel tool to identify candidates for successful VAD explantation.
Influence of Small Dams on Downstream Channel Characteristics in Pennsylvania and Maryland: Implications for the Long‐Term Geomorphic Effects of Dam Removal1
Authors: Skalak Katherine , Pizzuto James , Hart David D.
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  We evaluate the effects of small dams (11 of 15 sites less than 4 m high) on downstream channels at 15 sites in Maryland and Pennsylvania by using a reach upstream of the reservoir at each site to represent the downstream reach before dam construction. A semi‐quantitative geomorphic characterization demonstrates that upstream reaches occupy similar geomorphic settings as downstream reaches. Survey data indicate that dams have had no measurable influence on the water surface slope, width, and the percentages of exposed bedrock or boulders on the streambed. The median grain diameter (D50) is increased slightly by dam construction, but D50 remains within the pebble size class. The percentage of sand and silt and clay on the bed averages about 35% before dam construction, but typically decreases to around 20% after dam construction. The presence of the dam has therefore only influenced the fraction of finer‐grained sediment on the bed, and has not caused other measurable changes in fluvial morphology. The absence of measurable geomorphic change from dam impacts is explicable given the extent of geologic control at these study sites. We speculate that potential changes that could have been induced by dam construction have been resisted by inerodible bedrock, relatively immobile boulders, well‐vegetated and cohesive banks, and low rates of bed material supply and transport. If the dams of our study are removed, we argue that long‐term changes (those that remain after a period of transient adjustment) will be limited to increases in the percentage of sand and silt and clay on the bed. Thus, dam removal in streams similar to those of our study area should not result in significant long‐term geomorphic changes.
A Comparative Study of Stream‐Gaging Techniques for Low‐Flow Measurements in Two Virginia Tributaries1
Authors: Soupir Michelle L. , Mostaghimi Saied , Mitchem, Jr. C.E.
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  Nonpoint source pollution (NPS) studies, such as total maximum daily loads development, often require quantification of flow in small first‐order and second‐order streams. Frequently, stream‐gaging techniques are implemented in flows that are below the manufacturer’s recommended minimum velocity. A comparative analysis of the accuracy of current technologies used in NPS pollution stream‐gaging applications and their applicability in low‐flow conditions was conducted. Nine stream‐gaging methods were evaluated for their field and laboratory performance and control structures were used as the statistical control. Analysis of the field investigation data indicated that Marsh McBirney current meter and the One‐orange method were the most accurate in the field while the results of the laboratory experiments found that the Starflow acoustic Doppler and Valeport Braystoke current meter performed best among the 10 methods. Overall, the Marsh McBirney and Valeport Braystoke current meters exhibited the best performance for both field and laboratory situations.