bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selling the Celtic Arc to the USA: a comparative analysis of the destination brochure images used in the marketing of Ireland, Scotland and Wales
Authors: Pritchard Annette , Morgan Nigel J.
Published: March 2008

This paper evaluates the extent to which the marketing objectives of three similar destinations competing in the same market are reflected in their projected brochure images. Its principal contribution to the destination image literature, however, is its focus on the roles of brand imagery and 'destination specific icons' in the marketing of emerging, established and mature destinations.

It is argued that in the increasingly competitive tourism world, emerging destinations will attempt to carve out a niche and to create images emphasising the uniqueness of their product. In order to achieve this individuality destinations use images which are specifically associated with themselves both to create and to reinforce their destination image, projected images which are here termed 'destination specific icons'.

The paper examines the vacation brochure images of Ireland, Scotland and Wales using a content analysis which categorises images into seven groups: heritage; scenery and wild-life; activities; people; urban and rural life; consumption activities and destination specific icons. Specifically, the paper examines brochures targeted at the US market, the largest single source of overseas visitors for each of the three destinations. In view of their differing positions in this market, these three destinations provide excellent case studies for a comparative evaluation of their marketing objectives and the projected brochure images produced by their national tourism agencies.

The paper concludes that Wales, a 'new' destination, is using imagery to commmunate a unique identity to a target audience, while Scotland, as an established destination, is using imagery to reinforce its brand identity. Ireland, in marked contrast, as a mature destination, does not need to use 'destination specific imagery' to reinforce its existing, strong identity. Evaluating imagery in this way has implications for tourism marketing planners both in the case study countries and in other destinations which may be attempting to establish or enhance an identity as a vacation destination.
The trends of China's outbound travel to Hong Kong and their implications
Authors: Hanqin Qiu Zhang  , Hailin Qu
Published: March 2008

This paper attempts to provide a better understanding of mainland Chinese outbound travel to Hong Kong, which has increased tremendously over the last few years. The main causes of this considerable increase are China's economic boom and the political relaxation allowing its citizens to go to Hong Kong and neighbouring countries. Given the huge tapped potential for outbound tourism in China relating to its rising economic position in the world, the results of this study, apart from theoretical interests, may have important implications for Hong Kong's tourism industry.
Sources of interest in travel to the Olympic Games
Authors: Chalip Laurence , Green B. Christine , Vander Velden Lee
Published: March 2008

This paper examines the applicability of Chalip's polysemic model when marketing the Olympic Games to a long-haul international tourist market. The model predicts that interest in Olympic spectating will derive from interest in Olympic narratives, symbols and genres (eg sport and spectacle). A sample of 378 adult Americans was surveyed following the 1996 Olympic Games. Respondents were asked to name the host city of the 2000 Olympic Games (a measure of awareness), their interest in travel to the 2000 Olympic Games, and their intent to travel to the 2000 Olympic Games. They were also asked to specify their interest in Olympic sports, non-Olympic championships, and Olympic narratives, genres and symbols. Awareness was predicted by education and interest in sports not typically shown on television. Interest in travel to the 2000 Olympic Games was pre dicted by age, education, interest in the closing ceremonies and interest in sports not typically shown on television. Intent was predicted by age. Non-metric multidimensional scaling of interest in Olympic sports identified eight clusters. Interest in track and field, the closing ceremonies and a cluster representing 17 minor Olympic sports predicted interest. Only interest in the cluster of minor sports predicted travel intent. Although interest in minor Olympic sports is central to interest in and intent to travel to the Olympic Games, it is poorly correlated with interest in high-profile non-Olympic sport events. Implications for marketing the Olympic Games to a long-haul international market are discussed.
An Application of Finite-Element Method To The Deformation Analysis of Coated Plain-Weave Fabrics
Authors: Irokazu H. , Inami M. , Nakahara Yoshio
Published: March 2008

Methods for analysing coated plain-weave fabric which has properties of nonlinear elasticity have not yet been satisfactorily developed. In this paper, a method which is promis ing for use in engineering applications like the strength analysis of membrane structures is presented. The finite element method using a rectangular element consisting of plain-weave fabric and coating material which is assumed to be an isotropic elastic plate of plane stress is applied to the method. Verification of the me thod is made by using uniaxial stress-strain responses. A square piece of coated plain-weave fabric with a square hole in it is analyzed as an example of application of the present method. Key Words: coated plain-weave fabrics; finite element method; nonlinearly elastic biaxial response; geometrically nonlinear prob lem ; incremental approach.
Improved Resiliency Through Phosphorylatio
Authors: Blanchard Eugene J. , Harper Robert J.
Published: March 2008

Cotton and cotton/polyester fabrics were treated with inorganic phosphorylating agents in combination with additives, such as polyethylene softener and elastomeric polymer emulsions, to produce fabrics with smooth drying properties. Durable press properties were usually not adequate when the phosphorylating agents were used without any additive. The best results were obtained with fabrics treated with 12-15% ammonium phosphate and 1% polyethylene. These results were enhanced when 2-4% elastomeric polymer was included in the formulation. Alkali metal phosphates were also used, but the results were not as good as those obtained with the ammonium phosphates. The most suitable alkali-metal phosphates were monobasic sodium phosphate and sodium hexametaphosphate.
Temperature Adaptable Hollow Fibers Containing Polyethylene Glycols
Authors: Vigo Tyrone L. , Frost Cynthia M.
Published: March 2008

Polyethylene glycols (PEG's with average molecular weights of 400, 600, 1,000 and 3,350) incorporated as 57% aq. solutions into hollow rayon and polypropylene fibers, after drying and conditioning, produced heat contents (Q) 1.2-2.5 times greater than untreated hollow polypropylene and 2.2-4.4 times greater than untreated hollow rayon fibers. The resultant Q values in a given temperature interval were reproducible for at least 50 heating and cooling cycles with no adverse change in their thermal performance compared to their first heating and cooling cycle. As monitored by differential scanning calorimetry, these modified fibers had thermal storage and release values useful at tempratures as low at -8 to -48°C on cooling and as high as +42 to +77°C on heating, with little variability in Q values within the same fiber or between different batches of the same fiber containing a particular polyethylene glycol.
Comparison of Sized Open-End and Ring Spun Yarns
Authors: Moreau Jerry P.
Published: March 2008

Cotton open-end (OE) yarns of 4.5 and 5.0 T.M. and a ring yarn of 4.5 T.M. were treated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) each at yarn counts of 8, 14.5, 21, and 27.5. The treated yams were compared with controls by testing for breaking strength, elongation, tenac ity, and abrasion resistance. Comparisons were also made between the three types of yarn. Properties of treated OE yarns compared to untreated ring yarns of the same count are presented and the feasibility of using durable chemically treated OE yarn instead of untreated ring yarn is discussed.
Electron Microscopical Analyses of the Distribution of Oily Soils On Fabrics After Laundering: a Review
Authors: Obendorf S. Kay
Published: March 2008

An electron microscopical method was developed to study the penetration and location of residual oily soil on fiber surfaces and in the fiber structure. Unsaturated oils, commonly found in human sebum, were reacted with osmium tetroxide which functioned as a tag for the oil in the backscattered electron images and the electron beam X-ray analyses. These methods have been used to study the location of residual oils on a range of woven fabrics in cluding those containing cotton, polyester, nylon, and acrylic fibers. The distributions of triolein, a triglyceride, and of oleic acid, a fatty acid, have been evaluated after laundering using a range of detergency conditions. The largest quantities of residual oils were accumulated in the interfiber capillaries within the yarn structures. Cotton fibers entrapped oii in the crenulations of the fiber and in the lumen. No oil was observed in the interior regions of the synthetic fibers evaluated, but high concentrations of oil were retained on the fiber surfaces between closely spaced fibers.
The Design of Waterproof, Water Vapour-Permeable Fabrics
Authors: Lomax G.R.
Published: March 2008

This paper reviews some current developments in fabrics which are both water proof and water vapour-permeable. Outer garments manufactured from these materials can improve wearer comfort by reducing the buildup of perspiration in side the clothing. Tightly-woven fabrics and microporous polymer membranes transmit water vapour predominantly by a diffusion-controlled mechanism similar to air permeability. Apparently solid (i.e. non-microporous) polymer films and fabric coatings which have much lower air permeability can also be designed with good water vapour permeability. The hydrophilic mechanism involved is a com bination of (1) a physical process involving permanent or transient pores in the molecular structure, and (2) an absorption-diffusion-desorption process which depends on the chemical composition of the polymer and is specific for water vapour.
Use of a Swelling Retention Agent in Wet-Fixation by High Pressure Saturated Steam
Authors: Lambert Allan H. , Holser Ronald A. , Harper Robert J.
Published: March 2008

This paper presents a study of one-step wet-fixation of trimethylolmelamine with a swelling retention agent (sodium nitrate) in cotton printcloth by saturated high pressure steam. This process produces fabrics with high durable press ratings and better strength retention compared to conventional padded, dried, and cured fabrics. The advantage of using high pressure saturated steam is the reduction in time to fix trimethylolmelamine, and the maintenance of moisture in the fabric during fixation. The latter is critical to fabric swelling and polymer formation. Uniform polymeriza tion of the trimethylolmelamine in the fibers has been demonstrated by a stain ing/light microscopy technique. This lack of migration is attributed to the maintenance of moisture during the polymerization process. The steam process imparts very high abrasion resistance to the fabric while maintaining good hand. Sodium nitrate addition to the fixation bath makes erratic contribution to swelling retention of the fibers and does not produce any set pattern on most fabric properties.
The Use Of Water-Borne Urethane Polymers In Fabric Coatings
Authors: Tsirovasiles John C. , Tyskwicz Albert S.
Published: March 2008

Water-borne coatings for the coated fabrics industry increased rapidly because they are the best alternative, and not necessarily because of EPA pressure. New develop ments in urethane chemistry enable the formulation of urethane water-borne coatings that have the adhesion, abrasion resistance, toughness and other properties necessary. The next generation of polymers is already on the drawing board. Close cooperation between the polymer manufacturer and coating formulator can only ex pand the horizons for this versatile form of polymer.
Studies of Sized Cotton Yarns by FT-IR Photoacoustic Spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Charles Q. , Bresee Randall R.
Published: March 2008

Cotton yarns treated with polymenc sizing agents were studied by Fourier trans form infrared photoacoustic spectroscopy (FT-IR/PAS). Sizing agents on the yarn surfaces were identified by the use of spectral subtraction. The degree of penetration of the sizing agents into the yarns, the amount of sizing agents remaining in the yarns after desizing, and the hydrogen bonding between the sizing agents and the cotton cellulose also were investigated by FT-IR/PAS. In this research, the photoacoustic de tection demonstrated a variety of advantages over the conventional infrared spectro scopic sampling techniques.
The Relationship of Textile, Paper and Plastic Technologies to Emerging Nonwoven Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Vaughn E.A.
Published: March 2008

This paper provides a summary of nonwoven fabric usages and presents a compar ative outline of nonwoven manufacturing technologies currently in use or emerging in the U.S. The manufacturing systems are classified and described as derivatives of textile, paper, plastic technologies or combinations thereof. A discussion of the cur rent situation and future trends in nonwoven manufacturing technology is also given.
Cationic Polyacrylates for Garment Dyeing
Authors: Harper Robert J.
Published: March 2008

Cationic polyacrylates were incorporated into durable press finishes. The resulting smooth-dry fabrics can be dyed with pigment dyes The process is useful on all cotton and cellulosic blends In this paper, the dyeability of these cross linked fabrics with pigments and other dyes is contrasted with the dyeability of crosslinked fabrics with small molecules grafted to the cellulose substrate.
`Something from nothing'
Authors: Israel Mark , Dawes John
Published: March 2008

Growth in the number and size of community corrections programmes in Australia has occurred despite concerns about the value of those programmes. In this article, we examine the debate that took place among researchers and practitioners about the credibility of community corrections following Martinson's apparent assertion in 1974 that `nothing works' and investigate what little is known about the confidence that various groups in Australia are prepared to place in such programmes.
Controlling measures
Authors: Carlen Pat
Published: March 2008

This article compares the ways in which English and Canadian campaigning and reforming discourses aiming to reduce either the numbers of women in prison or the damage done by repressive regimes in the women's prisons have been incorporated via new vocabularies into new policy discourses. It is argued that, in England and Wales, these newly created official discourses on the meaning of women's crime will result both in the increased (anti)social control of women and a rise in the female prison population.
Durkheim, Tarde and beyond
Authors: Karstedt Susanne
Published: March 2008

Exchange, transport and import of crime policies takes place on a global scale. New strategies of crime prevention, models of institutions and interventions rapidly spread around the globe. Knowledge is increasingly shared among the `epistemic communities' of criminologists, and criminal justice and policing experts and practitioners. Notwithstanding the global scale of exchange, criminal justice systems and policies are definitely local, and embedded in traditions, culture and the particular institutional regimes of national states. This article explores how crime policies travel within a globalized world of nonetheless local legal and institutional cultures, and how we can conceptualize the routes of travelling they take. The article starts by analysing what exactly travels when crime policies are `en route'. Next, overarching concepts and convergence theories, which have played such a decisive role in analysing the globalization of crime policies are discussed. These are contrasted with loosely coupled concepts like actors, mechanisms and principles, following suggestions by Braithwaite and Drahos (2000). `Modelling' seems to be a mechanism that is most useful in describing present exchange and transport of crime polices.
Occupational crime, occupational deviance, and workplace crime
Authors: Friedrichs David O.
Published: March 2008

The concept of occupational crime—as one of the principal forms of white collar crime—has been quite familiar and widely invoked since the publication of Clinard and Quinney's influential Criminal Behavior Systems: A Typology. More recently, however, the term occupational crime has been applied to activities quite removed from the original meaning of white collar crime, and it has been used interchangeably with such terms as occupational deviance and workplace crime. In the interest of greater conceptual clarity within the field of white collar crime the argument is made here for restricting the term `occupational crime' to illegal and unethical activities committed for individual financial gain—or to avoid financial loss—in the context of a legitimate occupation. The term `occupational deviance' is better reserved for deviation from occupational norms (e.g. drinking on the job; sexual harassment), and the term `workplace crime' is better reserved for conventional forms of crime committed in the workplace (e.g. rape; assault). The conceptual conflation of fundamentally dissimilar activities hinders theoretical, empirical, and policy-related progress in the field of white collar crime studies.
Minority recruitment in criminal justice
Authors: Riley John
Published: March 2008

Research on the recruitment of minorities to justice system careers typically focuses on the attitudes and behaviors of discriminating majorities. The attitudes of potential minority applicants and the particular situation of indigenous people remain largely unexplored in the literature. The research reported here focuses on the attitudes of Alaska Natives toward criminal justice careers. This article uses focus group data to identify and describe specific preferences and perceptions that constitute barriers to greater recruitment of Alaska Natives. These data contribute toward a more comprehensive model of minority recruitment by allowing us to understand minority employment in terms of both majority discrimination and the preferences of minorities.
Adaptive separation of free-surface multiples through independent component analysis
Authors: Kaplan Sam T. , Innanen Kristopher A.
Published: March 2008

We present a three-stage algorithm for adaptive separation of free-surface multiples. The free-surface multiple elimination (FSME) method requires, as deterministic prerequisites, knowledge of the source wavelet and deghosted data. In their absence, FSME provides an estimate of free-surface multiples that must be subtracted adaptively from the data. First we construct several orders from the free-surface multiple prediction formula. Next we use the full recording duration of any given data trace to construct filters that attempt to match the data and the multiple predictions. This kind of filter produces adequate phase results, but the order-by-order nature of the free-surface algorithm brings results that remain insufficient for straightforward subtraction. Then we construct, trace by trace, a mixing model in which the mixtures are the data trace and its orders of multiple predictions. We separate the mixtures through a blind source separation technique, in particular by employing independent component analysis. One of the recovered signals is a data trace without free-surface multiples. This technique sidesteps the subtraction inherent in most adaptive subtraction methods by separating the desired signal from the free-surface multiples. The method was applied to synthetic and field data. We compared the field data to a published method and found comparable results.
Statistical correlation between geophysical logs and extracted core
Authors: Price David , Curtis Andrew , Wood Rachel
Published: March 2008

The precise correlation of extracted core to geophysical borehole logs is often problematic in intervals in which no sufficiently large or distinctive features span the gap between the outer core surface and the borehole wall. This impairs our ability to use techniques that require accurate correlation as a prerequisite (e.g., to develop field-based, upscaling and downscaling relationships of porosity distributions at or below log resolution). We propose a new method for such situations in which we correlate a cascade of statistics of core features with those of image logs taken from the borehole wall. Each statistic is used individually to calculate a likelihood function of possible correlation locations. These results are combined using a joint-likelihood function, and with other prior information using Bayesian techniques, to bring all available information to apply to the final correlation solution. The technique is demonstrated with computerized tomography for a core section and image-log data extracted from a typical Middle Eastern carbonate reservoir. Using lithologic criteria alone, the correlation was constrained to a [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] region, which constitutes prior information. Using the mean, variance, and geostatistical-range parameter, our method further constrains the correlation to [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text], only seven times larger than Fullbore Formation MicroImager resolution. Thus our method allows further interpretation to be based on correlation accuracies as small as [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text].
Prognosis of adolescent partial syndromes of eating
disorder
Authors: Patton George C. , Coffey Carolyn , Carlin John B. , Sanci Lena , Sawyer Susan
Published: March 2008

Background

Partial syndromes of eating disorder are common in adolescents but the
health significance of these syndromes remains uncertain.

Aims

To document the health and social adjustment in young adulthood of
females assessed as having a partial syndrome of eating disorder in
adolescence.

Method

A community sample of 1943 participants was tracked over 10 years in an
eight-wave cohort study. A partial syndrome was defined as the fulfilment
of at least two DSM-IV criteria for either anorexia or bulimia nervosa at
one assessment or more between the ages of 15 years and 17 years.

Results

Partial syndromes were found in 9.4% of 15- to 17-year-old female
participants and 1.4% of males. There were few instances of progression
of partial syndromes to fully fledged anorexia and bulimia nervosa.
However, among those with partial syndromes depressive and anxiety
symptoms were two to three times higher in young adulthood, substance
misuse was common, and a majority of those with a partial syndrome of
anorexia nervosa were still underweight in their mid-20s.

Conclusions

Given the level of subsequent psychopathology and social role impairment,
there may be justification for initiating trials of preventive and early
clinical intervention strategies for adolescent partial syndromes.
Anxiety disorders in mothers and their children: Prospective
longitudinal community study
Authors: Schreier Andrea , Wittchen Hans-Ulrich , Höfler Michael , Lieb Roselind
Published: March 2008

The relationship between DSM-IV anxiety disorders and their clinical
characteristics in mothers and anxiety in offspring was examined in 933
mother–child pairs from a longitudinal community study. Offspring of mothers
with an anxiety disorder had an elevated risk of developing any anxiety
disorder, compared with offspring of mothers with no anxiety disorder.
Increased risk of anxiety in the offspring was especially associated with
maternal social phobia and generalised anxiety disorder, and with maternal
diagnoses of early onset, greater number and more severe impairment. These
results suggest that the type of maternal anxiety disorder and its severity
of manifestation contribute to mother-offspring aggregation of anxiety.
Psychosocial and clinical correlates of suicidal acts: Results
from a national population survey
Authors: Blackmore Emma Robertson , Munce Sarah , Weller Iris , Zagorski Brandon , Stansfeld Stephen A. , Stewart Donna E. , Caine Eric D. , Conwell Yeates
Published: March 2008

Background

Clinical samples have identified a number of psychosocial risk factors
for suicidal acts but it is unclear if these findings relate to the
general population.

Aims

To describe the prevalence of and psychosocial risk factors for suicidal
acts in a general adult population.

Method

Data were obtained from a Canadian epidemiological survey of 36 984
respondents aged 15 years and older (weighted sample
n=23 662 430).

Results

Of these respondents, 0.6% (weighted n=130 143) endorsed
a 12-month suicidal act. Female gender (OR=4.27, 95% CI 4.05–4.50), being
separated (OR=37.88, 95% CI 33.92–42.31) or divorced (OR=7.79, 95% CI
7.22–8.41), being unemployed (OR=1.70, 95% CI 1.50–1.80), experiencing a
chronic physical health condition (OR=1.70, 95% CI 1.67–1.86) and
experiencing a major depressive episode in the same 12-month period as
the act (OR=9.10, 95% CI 8.65–9.59) were significantly associated with a
suicidal act.

Conclusions

The psychosocial correlates of suicidal acts in this sample are
consistent with those previously reported in clinical and general
population samples. These findings reinforce the importance of the
determination of suicide risk and its prevention not only of psychiatric
illness but of physical and psychosocial factors as well.
Severity of depressive episodes during the course of depressive disorder
Authors: Kessing Lars Vedel
Published: March 2008

Background

It is not clear whether the severity of depressive episodes changes during the course of depressive disorder.

Aims

To investigate whether the severity of depressive episodes increases during the course of illness.

Method

Using a Danish nationwide case register, all psychiatric inpatients and out-patients with a main ICD-10 diagnosis of a single mild, moderate or severe depressive episode at the end of first contact were identified. Patients included in the study were from the period 1994–2003.

Results

A total of 19 392 patients received a diagnosis of a single depressive episode at first contact. The prevalence of severe depressive episodes increased from 25.5% at the first episode to 50.0% at the 15th episode and the prevalence of psychotic episodes increased from 8.7% at the first episode to 25.0% at the 15th episode. The same pattern was found regardless of gender, age at first contact and calendar year.

Conclusions

The increasing severity of depressive episodes emphasises the importance of early and sustained prophylactic treatment.
Major depression, 5HTTLPR genotype, suicide and antidepressant influences on thalamic volume
Authors: Young Keith A. , Bonkale Willy L. , Holcomb Leigh A. , Hicks Paul B. , German Dwight C.
Published: March 2008

Background

The 5HTTLPR genetic variant of the serotonin transporter gene (SERT or 5-HTT), which is comprised of a short (SERT-s) and a long (SERT-l) allele, is associated with major depressive disorder and post-traumatic brain disorder.

Aims

The present study sought to determine whether the total thalamus and major subregions are altered in size in major depressive disorder and in relation to the 5HTTLPR genotype.

Method

We investigated the influence of 5HTTLPR genotype, psychiatric diagnosis, suicide and other clinical factors on the volume of the entire post-mortem thalamus.

Results

Major depressive disorder, SERT-ss genotype and suicide emerged as independent factors contributing to an enlargement of the total thalamus. The majority of the volume enlargement associated with the SERT-ss genotype occurred in the pulvinar, whereas enlargement associated with major depressive disorder occurred in the limbic nuclei and in other regions of the thalamus. A history of antidepressant treatment was associated with reduced thalamic volume.

Conclusions

The 5HTTLPR genetic variation may affect behaviour and psychiatric conditions, in part, by altering the anatomy of the thalamus.
Specialised alcohol treatment services are a luxury the NHS
cannot afford
Authors: Luty Jason , Carnwath Thomas
Published: March 2008

Is alcoholism an illness or merely a self-inflicted indulgence? Can we
afford specialist alcohol treatment services? Do they even work? Should the
tax payer foot the bill? Is the lack of such services ‘perverse’? In this
lively debate Drs Carnwath and Luty weigh up the pros and cons of
controlling the effects of ‘our favourite drug’.
Virtual reality study of paranoid thinking in the general population
Authors: Freeman Daniel , Pugh Katherine , Antley Angus , Slater Mel , Bebbington Paul , Gittins Matthew , Dunn Graham , Kuipers Elizabeth , Fowler David , Garety Philippa
Published: March 2008

Background

Judging whether we can trust other people is central to social interaction, despite being error-prone. A fear of others can be instilled by the contemporary political and social climate. Unfounded mistrust is called paranoia, and in severe forms is a central symptom of schizophrenia.

Aims

To demonstrate that individuals without severe mental illness in the general population experience unfounded paranoid thoughts, and to determine factors predictive of paranoia using the first laboratory method of capturing the experience.

Method

Two hundred members of the general public were comprehensively assessed, and then entered a virtual reality train ride populated by neutral characters. Ordinal logistic regressions (controlling for age, gender, ethnicity, education, intellectual functioning, socio-economic status, train use, playing of computer games) were used to determine predictors of paranoia.

Results

The majority agreed that the characters were neutral, or even thought they were friendly. However, a substantial minority reported paranoid concerns. Paranoia was strongly predicted by anxiety, worry, perceptual anomalies and cognitive inflexibility.

Conclusions

This is the most unambiguous demonstration of paranoid ideation in the general public so far. Paranoia can be understood in terms of cognitive factors. The use of virtual reality should lead to rapid advances in the understanding of paranoia.
Effects of cannabidiol on schizophrenia-like symptoms in people who use cannabis
Authors: Morgan Celia J. A. , Curran H. Valerie
Published: March 2008

Cannabis contains various cannabinoids, two of which have almost opposing actions: δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is psychotomimetic, whereas cannabidiol (CBD) has antipsychotic effects. Hair samples were analysed to examine levels of Δ9-THC and CBD in 140 individuals. Three clear groups emerged: ‘THC only’, ‘THC+CBD’ and those with no cannabinoid in hair. The THC only group showed higher levels of positive schizophrenia-like symptoms compared with the no cannabinoid and THC+CBD groups, and higher levels of delusions compared with the no cannabinoid group. This provides evidence of the divergent properties of cannabinoids and has important implications for research into the link between cannabis use and psychosis.
Audit of availability and awareness of guidelines for the management of confusion in older patients on general wards
Authors: Evans Ceri G. , d'Souza Charles , Reynolds Paul , Linton Caroline , Nukalapati Lokesh , Swarnkar Anvita
Published: March 2008

Aims and Method

Confusion in an older patient on a general hospital ward requires prompt and appropriate management. To this end, evidence-based guidelines have been produced and disseminated by Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust. An audit was carried out when it became apparent that junior doctors might not be aware of the guidelines and that their availability on the wards was limited. An action plan was generated and a second audit carried out. Our aim was to establish whether the doctors' knowledge of the guidelines and their availability on wards changed as a result of our action plan and audit.

Results

The audit consisted of a survey of general wards at the Royal Gwent Hospital and at St Woolos Hospital to assess availability of the guidelines and a questionnaire administered to a sample of junior doctors. The guidelines were available on 17% of wards; 11% of junior doctors were aware of them. Results of the audit informed implementation of an action plan. The second audit showed a limited improvement in availability (increased to 34%) and awareness (increased to 15%) of the guidelines, with no statistically significant difference.

Clinical Implications

Apparently well-thought-out action plans may produce minimal change, but unless the audit cycle is completed this fact cannot be corroborated. In generating action plans, more consideration may need to be given to the factors that influence the spread of change in healthcare systems.
Bridging the gap between the university and the NHS: health services research in psychiatry
Authors: Sullivan Sarah , Thompson Andy
Published: March 2008

Health services research is vital in any medical specialty. In psychiatry, it has become more high-profile with the reconfiguration of different approaches to delivering care to patients. Research in this area often appeals to clinicians, who feel that the findings may be applicable to ‘real life’ clinical experience. However, many become disillusioned when faced with unexpected problems, not only with regulatory bodies such as ethics committees and funding organisations, but also by the practicalities of recruiting patients and involving fellow clinicians in their studies.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 and its potential impact on the use of restraint
Authors: Owino Arthur O.
Published: March 2008

The staged implementation of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (further referred to as the Act) began in April 2007 and was completed in October 2007. The Act provides a comprehensive statutory framework for making decisions for people in England and Wales, aged 16 years and over, who lack capacity to make a particular decision at a particular time. Section 5 of the Act codifies the common law doctrine of necessity and provides a defence to anyone who performs an act in connection with the care and treatment of another person – in that person's best interest – reasonably believed to lack capacity in that matter.
Managing perinatal mental health disorders effectively: identifying the necessary components of service provision and delivery
Authors: Rothera Ian , Oates Margaret
Published: March 2008

Aims and Method

To identify problems with the management of perinatal mental health disorders and areas where improvements are thought-required. The study used qualitative methods comprising focus groups with recovered patients and interviews with health professionals.

Results

Issues we identified included a lack of knowledge, skills, integrated working, poor access to resources and ill-defined professional roles and responsibilities. Improving care and service provision requires the development of training and education programmes, care pathways and protocols, and referral guidelines and liaison services.

Clinical Implications

Difficulties over managing perinatal mental illnesses occur at all levels of healthcare provision. Our findings confirm best practice recommendations which emphasise improved joint working and the provision of specialist services in all localities.
Cellulases of Mesophilic Microorganisms
Authors: Doi Roy H.
Published: March 2008

The cellulolytic activity of mesophilic bacteria and fungi is described, with special emphasis on the large extracellular enzyme complex called the cellulosome. The cellulosome is composed of a scaffolding protein, which is attached to various cellulolytic and hemicellulolytic enzymes, and this complex allows the organisms to degrade plant cell walls very efficently. The enzymes include a variety of cellulases, hemicellulases, and pectinases that work synergistically to degrade complex cell‐wall molecules.
Physiology, Ecology, Phylogeny, and Genomics of Microorganisms Capable of Syntrophic Metabolism
Authors: McInerney Michael J. , Struchtemeyer Christopher G. , Sieber Jessica , Mouttaki Housna , Stams Alfons J. M. , Schink Bernhard , Rohlin Lars , Gunsalus Robert P.
Published: March 2008

Syntrophic metabolism is diverse in two respects: phylogenetically with microorganisms capable of syntrophic metabolism found in the Deltaproteobacteria and in the low G+C gram‐positive bacteria, and metabolically given the wide variety of compounds that can be syntrophically metabolized. The latter includes saturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, alcohols, and hydrocarbons. Besides residing in freshwater and marine anoxic sediments and soils, microbes capable of syntrophic metabolism also have been observed in more extreme habitats, including acidic soils, alkaline soils, thermal springs, and permanently cold soils, demonstrating that syntrophy is a widely distributed metabolic process in nature. Recent ecological and physiological studies show that syntrophy plays a far larger role in carbon cycling than was previously thought. The availability of the first complete genome sequences for four model microorganisms capable of syntrophic metabolism provides the genetic framework to begin dissecting the biochemistry of the marginal energy economies and interspecies interactions that are characteristic of the syntrophic lifestyle.
Bacterial Cellulose Hydrolysis in Anaerobic Environmental Subsystems—Clostridium thermocellumandClostridium stercorarium, Thermophilic Plant‐fiber Degraders
Authors: Zverlov Vladimir V. , Schwarz Wolfgang H.
Published: March 2008

Cellulose degradation is a rare trait in bacteria. However, the truly cellulolytic bacteria are extremely efficient hydrolyzers of plant cell wall polysaccharides, especially those in thermophilic anaerobic ecosystems. Clostridium stercorarium, a thermophilic ubiquitous soil dweller, has a simple cellulose hydrolyzing enzyme system of only two cellulases. However, it seems to be better suited for the hydrolysis of a wide range of hemicelluloses. Clostridium thermocellum, an ubiquitous thermophilic gram‐type positive bacterium, is one of the most successful cellulose degraders known. Its extracellular enzyme complex, the cellulosome, was prepared from C. thermocellum cultures grown on cellulose, cellobiose, barley β‐1,3‐1,4‐glucan, or a mixture of xylan and cellulose. The single proteins were identified by peptide chromatography and MALDI‐TOF‐TOF. Eight cellulosomal proteins could be found in all eight preparations, 32 proteins occur in at least one preparation. A number of enzymatic components had not been identified previously. The proportion of components changes if C. thermocellum is grown on different substrates. Mutants of C. thermocellum, devoid of scaffoldin CipA, that now allow new types of experiments with in vitro cellulosome reassembly and a role in cellulose hydrolysis are described. The characteristics of these mutants provide strong evidence of the positive effect of complex (cellulosome) formation on hydrolysis of crystalline cellulose.
Discovery of a Ferredoxin:NAD+‐Oxidoreductase (Rnf) in Acetobacterium woodii
Authors: Müller Volker , Imkamp Frank , Biegel Eva , Schmidt Silke , Dilling Sabrina
Published: March 2008

Acetogens use the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway for reduction of carbon dioxide to acetate. This pathway not only allows reoxidation of reducing equivalents during heterotrophic growth but also supports chemolithoautotrophic growth on H2 + CO2. The latter argues for this pathway being a source for net energy conservation, but the mechanism involved remains unknown. In addition to CO2, acetogens can use alternative electron acceptors, such as nitrate or caffeate. Caffeate respiration in the model acetogen Acetobacterium woodii is coupled to energy conservation via a chemiosmotic mechanism, with Na+ as coupling ion. The pathway and its bioenergetics were solved in some detail very recently. This review focuses on the regulation of caffeate respiration, describes the enyzmes involved, summarizes the evidence for a potential Na+‐translocating ferredoxin:NAD+‐oxidoreductase (Rnf complex) as a new coupling site, and hypothesizes on the role of this Rnf complex in the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway.
A Preliminary Analysis of Microbial and Biochemical Properties of High‐Temperature Compost
Authors: Oshima Tairo , Moriya Toshiyuki
Published: March 2008

We investigated the microbial community of a high‐temperature compost process exhibiting an internal temperature exceeding 90°C. The waste pile was crosscut and samples were collected from the bottom to the top of the refuse pile. PCR–denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis suggested that the microbial community of the high‐temperature compost is heterogeneous and differs from one locality to another. Heat‐stable collagenases and amylases were extracted directly from the compost pile. Collagenases were located in the upper half of the pile, whereas amylases were detected mainly in the lower parts. Several extremely thermophilic strains were isolated at 80°C; these strains were aerobes. Based on 16S rRNA sequence analysis, the isolates clustered together and represent one or two closely related species. We propose that these thermophilic isolates belong to a novel genus, Caldaterra, gen. nov.
Enzymology of the Wood–Ljungdahl Pathway of Acetogenesis
Authors: Ragsdale Stephen W.
Published: March 2008

The biochemistry of acetogenesis is reviewed. The microbes that catalyze the reactions that are central to acetogenesis are described and the focus is on the enzymology of the process. These microbes play a key role in the global carbon cycle, producing over 10 trillion kilograms of acetic acid annually. Acetogens have the ability to anaerobically convert carbon dioxide and CO into acetyl‐CoA by the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway, which is linked to energy conservation. They also can convert the six carbons of glucose stoichiometrically into 3 mol of acetate using this pathway. Acetogens and other anaerobic microbes (e.g., sulfate reducers and methanogens) use the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway for cell carbon synthesis. Important enzymes in this pathway that are covered in this review are pyruvate ferredoxin oxidoreductase, CO dehydrogenase/acetyl‐CoA synthase, a corrinoid iron‐sulfur protein, a methyltransferase, and the enzymes involved in the conversion of carbon dioxide to methyl‐tetrahydrofolate.
Polysaccharide Degradation and Synthesis by Extremely Thermophilic Anaerobes
Authors: VanFossen Amy L. , Lewis Derrick L. , Nichols Jason D. , Kelly Robert M.
Published: March 2008

Extremely thermophilic fermentative anaerobes (growth Topt ≥ 70°C) have the capacity to use a variety of carbohydrates as carbon and energy sources. As such, a wide variety of glycoside hydrolases and transferases have been identified in these microorganisms. The genomes of three model extreme thermophiles—an archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus (Topt = 98°C), and two bacteria, Thermotoga maritima (Topt = 80°C) and Caldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticus (Topt = 70°C)—encode numerous carbohydrate‐active enzymes, many of which have been characterized biochemically in their native or recombinant forms. In addition to their voracious appetite for polysaccharide degradation, polysaccharide production has also been noted for extremely thermophilic fermentative anaerobes; T. maritima generates exopolysaccharides that aid in biofilm formation, a process that appears to be driven by intraspecies and interspecies interactions.
Anaerobic Respiration in EngineeredEscherichia coliwith an Internal Electron Acceptor to Produce Fuel Ethanol
Authors: Peterson Joy Doran , Ingram Lonnie O.
Published: March 2008

Environmental concerns and unease with U.S. dependence on foreign oil have renewed interest in converting biomass into fuel ethanol. The volume of plant matter available makes lignocellulose conversion to ethanol desirable, although no one isolated organism has been shown to break bonds in lignocellulose and efficiently metabolize resulting sugars into one product. This work reviews directed engineering coupled with metabolic evolution resulting in microbial biocatalysts that produce up to 45 g L−1 ethanol in 48 hours in a simple mineral salts medium and that convert various compounds of lignocellulosic materials to ethanol. Mutations contributing to ethanologenesis are discussed along with adding enzymatic capabilities to existing biocatalysts in order to decrease the commercial enzymes required to reduce plant matter into fermentable sugars.
Comparative Genomics of Clostridia
Authors: Brüggemann Holger , Gottschalk Gerhard
Published: March 2008

Several clostridial genomes have been sequenced in the past few years, and new sequencing projects as well as postgenomics approaches to study this important anaerobic genus are under way. This wealth of sequence data extends our knowledge of the metabolic versatility of this genus and its potential biotechnological exploitation and also adds to our view of virulence traits of pathogenic clostridia. So far, little is known about the clostridial cell surface and its role in the interaction with the respective environment. This is of special interest in understanding the host interaction of intestinal clostridia, which are assumed to influence the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract. Here recently sequenced clostridial genomes are explored with respect to features of cell surface association. Several classes of proteins with cell wall–binding domains are found, including S‐layer proteins and adhesins. It could be shown that most species are specifically equipped with surface‐associated factors, resulting in distinctive host/matrix‐interacting properties.
Plant Cell Wall Breakdown by Anaerobic Microorganisms from the Mammalian Digestive Tract
Authors: Flint Harry J. , Bayer Edward A.
Published: March 2008

Degradation of lignocellulosic plant material in the mammalian digestive tract is accomplished by communities of anaerobic microorganisms that exist in symbiotic association with the host. Catalytic domains and substrate‐binding modules concerned with plant polysaccharide degradation are found in a variety of anaerobic bacteria, fungi, and protozoa from the mammalian gut. The organization of plant cell wall–degrading enzymes, however, varies widely. The cellulolytic gram‐positive bacterium Ruminococcus flavefaciens produces an elaborate cellulosomal enzyme complex that is anchored to the bacterial cell wall; assembly of the complex involves at least five different dockerin:cohesin specificities, and the R. flavefaciens genome encodes at least 180 dockerin‐containing proteins that encompass a wide array of catalytic and binding activities. On the other hand, in the cellulolytic protozoan, Polyplastron multivesiculatum, individual plant cell wall–degrading enzymes appear to be secreted into food vacuoles, while the gram‐negative bacterium Prevotella bryantii appears to possess a sequestration‐type system for the utilization of soluble xylans. The system that is employed for polysaccharide utilization must play a major role in defining the ecological niche that each organism occupies within a complex gut community. 16S rRNA analyses are also revealing uncultured bacterial species closely adherent to fibrous substrates in the rumen and in the large intestine of animals and humans. The true complexity, both at a single organism and community level, of the microbial enzyme systems that allow animals to digest plant material is beginning to become apparent.
Remarkable Improvement of Catalytic Performance in Dimethyl Ether to Olefin Reaction over CeO2-modified Calcium-containing MFI Type Zeolite
Authors: Iida Akira , Nakamura Ryo , Komura Kenichi , Sugi Yoshihiro
Published: March 2008

Dimethyl ether to olefin (DTO) reaction was examined over CeO2-modified Ca-MFI as a catalyst. The CeO2-modified Ca-MFI (Ce/Ca-MFI) showed excellent catalytic performance to give propene as a main product. Activity was 28 times higher than conventional MFI type zeolite and seven times higher than Ca-MFI.