bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEGADEVELOPMENT IN MALAYSIA: FROM HERITAGE LANDSCAPES TO “LEISURESCAPES” IN MELAKA'S TOURISM SECTOR
Authors: Cartier Carolyn
Published: May 2008

In Malaysia, state promotion of tourism as a main component of service sector expansion and foreign exchange earnings has compelled government at all levels to facilitate leisure industry development. Even in the relatively small state of Melaka, where its historic landscapes constitute significant heritage tourism resources, development projects for theme parks and golf resorts have proliferated. This analysis examines Malaysian tourism development through an evaluation of the diverse tourism sectors in Melaka town and state—heritage, theme park, golf resort, and ecotourism—to demonstrate how the developmental contexts of national and international economic restructuring, combined with regional tourism demand for activity‐oriented leisure, have rationalised large‐scale, high‐cost, environmentally‐sensitive real estate development projects. In the process, authentic natural and historic landscapes have been rapidly forsaken for ersatz “leisurescapes” where both domestic and foreign tourists consume representations of diverse symbolic worlds.
The Role of Maternal Behavior in the Relation between Shyness and Social Reticence in Early Childhood and Social Withdrawal in Middle Childhood
Authors: Hane Amie Ashley , Cheah Charissa , Rubin Kenneth H. , Fox Nathan A.
Published: May 2008

The moderating effect of maternal behavior in the relations between social reticence and shyness in preschool and subsequent social withdrawal was investigated. Eighty children (47 females) were judged for degree of social reticence during play with unfamiliar peers at the age of four and mothers completed the Colorado child temperament inventory (CCTI). At the age of seven, the children were coded for degree of social withdrawal during peer play and mothers and children were observed during structured and unstructured activities. Two significant interaction effects indicated that maternal report of shyness was a positive predictor of age‐seven social withdrawal when mothers lacked positivity; whereas observed social reticence was associated with higher degrees of social withdrawal when mothers were highly negative. Maternal positivity and negativity differentially influenced the development of social withdrawal in childhood, such that maternal negativity is associated with poor social functioning in children who have an established history of social withdrawal; whereas maternal positivity is associated with better social outcome for preschoolers who are viewed as temperamentally shy.
AS‐AD REVISITED: OVERSHOOTING ADJUSTMENT DYNAMICS UNDER NAÏVE EXPECTATIONS
Authors: Badinger Harald , Kubin Ingrid
Published: May 2008

We analyse the adjustment dynamics from a short‐term to a medium‐term equilibrium in a standard AS‐AD model à la Blanchard (2006, Macroeconomics, 4th edn, Prentice‐Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ) for an open economy with fixed and flexible exchange rates. An explicit analysis suggests the local stability of the medium‐term equilibrium. However, an overshooting adjustment dynamics is possible for the exchange rate, a result that directly relates to the famous Dornbusch (1976, Journal of Political Economy, 84, pp. 1161–1176) analysis. In contrast to the latter, in the Blanchard framework it is obtained without assuming rational expectations and without relying upon saddle‐path stability.
Estimation of Engel Curves from Survey Data with Zero Expenditures*
Authors: Hasegawa Hikaru , Ueda Kazuhiro , Mori Kunie
Published: May 2008

The objective of this article is to propose a Bayesian method for estimating a system of Engel functions using survey data that include zero expenditures. We deal explicitly with the problem of zero expenditures in the model and estimate a system of Engel functions that satisfy the adding‐up condition. Furthermore, using Markov chain Monte Carlo method, we estimate unobservable parameters, including consumption of commodities, total consumption and equivalence scale, and use their posterior distributions to calculate inequality measures and total consumption elasticities.
Technological Change and Transition: Relative Contributions to Worldwide Growth During the 1990s*
Authors: Badunenko Oleg , Henderson Daniel J. , Zelenyuk Valentin
Published: May 2008

In this paper we use the Kumar and Russell [American Economic Review(2002) Vol. 92, pp. 527–548] growth‐accounting procedure to examine cross‐country growth during the 1990s. Using a data set comprising developed, newly industrialized, developing and transitional economies, we decompose the growth of output per worker into components attributable to technological catch‐up, technological change and capital accumulation. In contrast to the study by Kumar and Russell, which concludes that capital deepening is the major force of growth and change in the world income per worker distribution over the 1965–90 period, our analysis shows that, during the 1990s, the major force in the further divergence of the rich and the poor is due to technological change, whereas capital accumulation plays a lesser and opposite role. Finally, although on average we find that transitional economies perform similar to the rest of the world, the procedure is able to discover some interesting patterns within the set of transitional countries.
Poor adherence to HIV monitoring and treatment guidelines for HIV‐infected injection drug users
Authors: Wood E , Kerr T , Zhang R , Guillemi S , Palepu A , Hogg RS , Montaner JSG
Published: May 2008

Objectives

There is growing concern about access to HIV/AIDS care among injection drug users (IDUs). We examined rates of CD4 cell count monitoring and correlates among HIV‐infected IDUs.

Methods

This prospective observational cohort study of 460 community‐recruited HIV‐infected IDUs was situated in a Canadian city where all medical care is provided free of charge. Over a median follow‐up period of 76 months, we evaluated factors associated with CD4 cell count monitoring through a linkage with a centralized CD4 registry.

Results

Overall, <5% of IDUs had CD4 monitoring consistent with local therapeutic guidelines. In multivariate analyses, after adjustment for being on antiretroviral therapy [odds ratio (OR) 2.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.84–2.70, P<0.001] female gender (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.57–0.89, P=0.003), non‐White ethnicity (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60–0.94, P=0.014), use of methadone maintenance therapy (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.42–1.94, P<0.001) and daily heroin use (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.61–0.85, P<0.001) were independently associated with CD4 monitoring.

Conclusions

Strategies to improve CD4 surveillance among IDUs are critically important, particularly for female and non‐White IDUs. Expanded treatment for heroin dependence appears to have the greatest potential for improved care.
The Influence of External Recruitment Practices on Job Search Practices Across Domestic Labor Markets: A comparison of the United States and China
Authors: Werbel James D. , Song Lynda Jiwen , Yan Shifu
Published: May 2008

Job search theories traditionally assume that job seekers have open access to information about employment opportunities. This may be moderated by the degree that labor markets rely on external recruitment to convey information about employment opportunities. In particular, external recruitment may be more widely used in some countries than other countries. Accordingly, this paper hypothesizes that job search practices that rely on external recruitment and information sharing with potential recruits are more likely to be widely used in the United States than in China and that job search practices are more likely to influence starting wages in the United States than in China. Using samples of graduating undergraduate college students in both the United States and China, this study suggests that job seekers gather more information about employment opportunities in the United States than in China, and that job search effort is more likely to influence starting wages in the United States than in China. The research suggests that job search theories need to consider job seeker access to information as a significant moderating variable in job search theory.
Multisource Feedback and Leaders' Goal Performance: Moderating effects of rating purpose, rater perspective, and performance dimension
Authors: Zimmerman Ryan D. , Mount Michael K. , Goff III Maynard
Published: May 2008

The main purposes of this study are to examine whether multisource feedback ratings predict leaders' organizational goal performance, and whether the relationships are consistent across the two rating purposes (developmental, administrative), two leadership dimensions behaviors (Consideration, Initiating Structure), and three rating perspectives (supervisor, self, and ‘other’ raters, i.e., peers and subordinates). Leaders (n=396) in a large organization in the transportation industry participated in two multisource feedback programs, the first for developmental purposes and the second 8 months later for administrative purposes. Approximately 1 month later, they were rated by their supervisor on their effectiveness in attaining five organizational performance goals (financial, safety, customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, diversity). Results revealed that both developmental ratings and administrative ratings uniquely predicted leaders' goal performance. However, both leadership dimension and rater perspective moderated these relationships. Leadership behaviors associated with Consideration were stronger predictors of goal performance for supervisor ratings, whereas behaviors associated with Initiating Structure were stronger predictors of goal performance for self and other ratings.
Comparing Personality Test Formats and Warnings: Effects on criterion‐related validity and test‐taker reactions
Authors: Converse Patrick D. , Oswald Frederick L. , Imus Anna , Hedricks Cynthia , Roy Radha , Butera Hilary
Published: May 2008

The potential for applicant response distortion on personality measures remains a major concern in high‐stakes testing situations. Many approaches to understanding response distortion are too transparent (e.g., instructed faking studies) – or are too subtle (e.g., correlations with social desirability measures as indices of faking). Recent research reveals more promising approaches in two methods: using forced‐choice (FC) personality test items and warning against faking. The present study examined effects of these two methods on criterion‐related validity and test‐taker reactions. Results supported incremental validity for an FC and Likert‐scale measure in warning and no‐warning conditions, above and beyond cognitive ability. No clear differences emerged between the FC vs Likert measures or warning vs no‐warning conditions in terms of validity. However, some evidence suggested that FC measures and warnings may produce negative test‐taker reactions. We conclude with implications for implementation in selection settings.
Contribution of Gender‐Specific Genetic Factors to Osteoporosis Risk
Authors: Karasik D. , Ferrari S. L.
Published: May 2008

Common diseases result from the complex relationship between genetic and environmental factors. The aim of this review is to provide perspective for a conceptual framework aimed at studying the interplay of gender‐specific genetic and environmental factors in the etiology of complex disease, using osteoporosis as an example.

In recent years, gender differences in the heritability of the osteoporosis‐related phenotypes have been reported and sex‐specific quantitative‐trait loci were discovered by linkage studies in humans and mice. Results of numerous allelic association studies also differed by gender. In most cases, it was not clear whether or not this phenomenon should be attributed to the effect of sex‐chromosomes, sex hormones, or other intrinsic or extrinsic differences between the genders, such as the level of bioavailable estrogen and of physical activity. We conclude that there is need to consider gender‐specific genetic and environmental factors in the planning of future association studies on the etiology of osteoporosis and other complex diseases prevalent in the general population.
The role of gendered conceptions in treatment seeking for alcohol problems
Authors: Jakobsson Annika , Hensing Gunnel , Spak Fredrik
Published: May 2008

The aim of this study was to explore the inducements for treatment‐seeking for alcohol problems in women and men. Specifically we wanted to identify what promoted or hindered treatment‐seeking in women and men, respectively, and to what extent femininity and masculinity was reflected in the context of treatment seeking. Data was obtained from open interviews with five women and seven men within a month after their first entry into alcohol treatment. A content analysis was performed using gender as the sorting factor. Promoting factors for treatment seeking in men were characterized by belief in their own capability, and looking to the future; whereas the women placed importance on pressure from someone significant, and sharing the problem with others. Hindrances for both women and men were feelings of shame and the significant role alcohol had in their lives. The women perceived alcohol problems as incompatible with femininity, and this made them avoid talking openly about their problems, which hence hindered treatment seeking. These findings showed that the value of alcohol as a gendered symbol still exists, which could be perceptible in promoting and hindering factors for treatment seeking in women and men. These factors could be useful to consider by professionals both in the primary healthcare system and in the social services. Future research should address treatment seeking in relation to both cultural and gendered constructions and their influence on the perceptions and behaviour of women and men with alcohol problems.
Activities of daily living for old persons in primary health care with chronic heart failure
Authors: Norberg Eva‐Britt , Boman Kurt , Löfgren Britta
Published: May 2008

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a common condition among Europe’s aging population. Findings indicate that CHF patients must make significant changes in many aspects of daily life. Previous studies of older primary health‐care participants and their activities of daily living (ADL)‐ability are rare. The aim of this study was to describe ADL‐ability in older people with CHF syndrome. The factors considered were dependence on others, perceived strain, quality of performance, and the association between The New York Heart Association classification (NYHA) and ADL‐ability. The participants, recruited from a primary health‐care centre, had symptoms indicating CHF and were diagnosed by a cardiologist. Forty persons over 65 years (mean age 81), participated in the study and self‐reported co‐morbidity was frequent. The Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) and the Staircase of ADL were used to describe ADL‐ability. Most participants were independent with respect to personal activities of daily living (PADL), and 75% were dependent in one or more instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), usually shopping. Most participants perceived strain, and only three could perform all ADL without strain. Age had a significant impact on ADL performance (motor measures: OR 7.11, CI 1.19–42.32, p = 0.031 and process measures: OR 8.49, CI 1.86–38.79, p = 0.006). However, participants showed lower ADL motor and process ability in AMPS compared with well persons of the same age. Participants in NYHA III/IV (adjusted for age), had significantly increased effort (under motor cut‐off) when performing ADL‐tasks (OR: 15.5, CI 2.40–100.1, p = 0.004) compared to those in NYHA I/II. Older persons in primary health care with CHF exhibit a high amount of dependence, perceived strain and increased effort during performance of ADL. There is an association between NYHA class III/IV and a decreased ADL‐ability (AMPS motor ability) even when adjusted for age.
Falling ill with Guillain‐Barré syndrome: patients’ experiences during the initial phase
Authors: Forsberg Anette , Ahlström Gerd , Holmqvist Lotta Widén
Published: May 2008

Objective:  Research describing the personal experiences of Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) is limited, but is important for identifying the patients’ need of support. The aim of this study was to describe experiences of falling ill with GBS, with the focus on the onset of disease, the diagnosis and the illness progress during hospital care.

Methods:  The study included 35 persons, 20–78 years old. They were interviewed 2 years after the onset of GBS. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:  The onset was described as either an incomprehensible, prolonged, increasing deterioration with puzzling sensations or as a frightening, rapid onset with a sudden loss of body control. The majority of the persons relied heavily on the reassurance of a positive prognosis, and expressed immense confidence in being able to recover. During the early phase at the hospital, a rapid and steady course of improvement inspired hope in many persons. In contrast, even in this early phase of hospital care some individuals expressed doubts of a slow recovery. Feelings of fear and insecurity were evident when losing body functions, thus causing helplessness. Sensations of pain, numbness and lost body image increased their vulnerability. Half of the ventilator‐treated persons expressed vivid memories of scary hallucinations.

Conclusion:  The onset is characterized by an incomprehensible bodily deterioration or a frightening, rapid paralysis. In the initial phase, there is hope for recovery, which for many individuals is reinforced by a steady recovery. In contrast, early psychosocial support may be necessary for some persons with an alarmingly slow recovery.
Factors associated with ‘stress of conscience’ in healthcare
Authors: Glasberg Ann‐Louise , Eriksson Sture , Norberg Astrid
Published: May 2008

Aim:  The main purpose of this study was to examine factors related to ‘stress of conscience’ i.e. stress related to a troubled conscience in healthcare.

Methods:  A series of questionnaires was completed by 423 healthcare employees in northern Sweden as part of this cross‐sectional study. The series of questionnaires comprised the ‘Stress of Conscience Questionnaire’, ‘Perception of Conscience Questionnaire’, ‘Revised Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire’, Social Interactions Scale, Resilience Scale and a Personal/Work Demographic form.

Results:  Nonautomatic stepwise regression analysis with forward inclusion resulted in a model that explained approximately 39.6% of the total variation in stress of conscience. Individual items associated with stress of conscience were; perceiving that conscience warns us against hurting others while at the same time not being able to follow one’s conscience at work and having to deaden one’s conscience to keep working in healthcare. In addition moral sensitivity items belonging to the factor ‘sense of moral burden’ were; one’s ability to sense patient’s needs means that one is doing more than one has strength for, having difficulty to deal with feelings aroused when a patient is suffering and one’s ability to sense patient’s needs means feeling inadequate all added significantly to the model. In addition, deficient social support from superiors, low levels of resilience and working in internal medicine wards were all associated with stress of conscience.

Conclusion:  Healthcare employees seem to experience stress of conscience in their everyday practise. Particular contributing factors are not being able to follow one’s conscience at work, and the ‘negative’ dimension of moral sensitivity – moral burden – which is an inability to deal with moral problems. Thus, in order for conscience and moral sensitivity to become an asset instead of a burden, healthcare employees need to be able to express their moral concerns.
What characterises nursing care? A hermeneutical philosophical inquiry
Authors: Austgard Kitt I.
Published: May 2008

The aim of this study was to identify some common characteristics associated with nursing care based on the historical text by the nursing pioneer, Rikke Nissen, and the modern philosophy of care, principally that of Kari M. Martinsen. The hermeneutic approach has been inspired by Gadamer’s thinking. His philosophy influenced interpretation and reflection on the content of historical and modern text. Typical basic characteristics associated with nursing care can be grouped into three mutually reinforcing areas: (i) the notion of excellence in nursing care, (ii) the relationship between nursing care and moral values, and (iii) caring as an interpretational exercise. The most significant core element was the strong relationship between care and professional judgement (or clinical judgement), and the requirement of analytic cognition on different levels of abstraction in context with the patient. In the early days of nursing, care was a concept deeply rooted in Christian philosophy. Within modern nursing philosophy, care is conceptualized in a number of ways, depending on philosophical stance and world view. What seems absolutely necessary is to differentiate between the concept of care on the superordinate level and each individual philosopher’s unique perspective on care. As a superordinate term, nursing care encompasses the patient’s fundamental needs, as well as the patient’s values and experience. Nursing care is characterized by the holistic view and the moral inherent in excellent nursing. Excluding the patient as a unique human being, should be regarded as noncaring and amoral practice. Whether nursing care represents a specific domain of knowledge is still an unanswered question, and something which has consequences for the application of a caring philosophy in nursing practice and the state of caring knowledge in nursing.
Consent, political trust and compliance: Rejoinder to Kaina's remarks on ‘Organizing consent’
Authors: GRIMES MARCIA
Published: May 2008

Abstract.  How does the concept of legitimacy relate to the concepts of political trust and compliance? To what extent are definitions of legitimacy normative and what consequences does this have for empirical research? This rejoinder argues that the difference between political legitimacy and political trust lies in the extent to which each builds on knowledge. It argues that conceptualizations of legitimacy presume a specific normatively justified model of democracy and in turn delineate the scope of empirical analyses of legitimacy.
Phase‐Transformation‐Induced Twinning in Orthorhombic BaCeO3
Authors: Cheng Shun‐Yu , Ho New‐Jin , Lu Hong‐Yang
Published: May 2008

Phase‐transformation‐induced twinning in orthorhombic barium cerate (BaCeO3) has been analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. Reflection twins with boundaries lying in {110) and {112) are generated by loss of point group symmetry elements during solid‐state phase transition along the sequence of Pm3m→R3c→o1‐Ibmm→o2‐Pbnm when pressureless‐sintered samples were cooled from 1400°C to room temperature. Fault vectors R=ɛ〈110] and ɛ〈021], in which displacements are not related in a simple way to the lattice translation, are determined for the twin boundaries exhibiting δ‐fringe patterns. The high‐ and low‐symmetry phases, rhombohedral and orthorhombic, are not related by group–subgroup symmetry, and the transformation is discontinuous and first order in nature, where twin relationships in the low‐symmetry phase are forbidden by the Landau theory. However, the transformation twins observed experimentally are consistent with those predicted directly from assuming a non‐disruption condition between transition phases, where the new structure is described in the frame of the old one geometrically. Such a phase transition can be continuous and diffusionless if it occurs via second order to and from a metastable intermediate phase, which is a shared common space group of the high‐ and low‐symmetry phases. Accordingly, two possible intermediate phases of the minimal common supergroup cubic Pm3m (No. 221) and of the maximal common subgroup monoclinic C2/c (No. 15) for the two end phases are identified.
Radiation Safety for the NOMAD™ Portable X‐Ray System in a Temporary Morgue Setting*
Authors: Hermsen Kenneth P. , Jaeger Stanley S. , Jaeger Mackenzie A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to determine the radiation levels resulting from leakage and scatter encountered by the forensic dental personnel using the Nomad™ at St. Gabriel, LA, following Hurricane Katrina. Using a Keithley Radiation Survey Meter and Lucite head phantom, radiation levels were measured at various distances and angles from the Nomad™ corresponding to the positions occupied by the dental personnel at St. Gabriel. The measurements were used to approximate the maximum total radiation dose from the Nomad to each team member for a 2‐ and a 4‐week deployment. The results show that the maximum scatter radiation dose to any team member was 4.4 μR per X‐ray or 0.253 millisieverts (mSv) for a 2‐week deployment and 0.506 mSv for a 4‐week deployment. Therefore, the leakage and scatter radiation dose from the Nomad™ was insignificant compared with established radiation safety guidelines of 50 mSv per year for all team members.
Agroindustrialization of the global agrifood economy: bridging development economics and agribusiness research
Authors: Cook Michael L. , Chaddad Fabio R.
Published: May 2008

This paper examines the agroindustrialization process from two supposedly disparate views: development economics and agribusiness research. The evolution of conceptual and methodological approaches emanating from these fields is explored and general observations are made concerning farm economic interdependence, institutional and organizational change, differing scopes of interest, the causes of agroindustrialization, orientation, and the choice of microanalytic tools, terminology, and unit of analysis. Despite an impressive list of hurdles, disincentives, and disconnects, complementarities between the two fields are identified. The paper concludes by exploring the potential of bridging development economics and agribusiness research to inform the future agroindustrialization research agenda.
Trade and agroindustrialization in developing countries: trends and policy impacts
Authors: Díaz‐Bonilla Eugenio , Reca Lucio
Published: May 2008

There have been important changes in the international trade of processed and high‐value added food products from developing countries over the past several decades. One of them has been the emergence of oilseeds and fruits and vegetables, replacing traditional products such as sugar, coffee, and cocoa as the main exports from developing countries. Another trend has been the collapse of African agroindustrial exports and the increase of exports from Asia. The paper highlights key trends, and explores possible reasons for the trends, focusing on trade policies in less‐developed countries (LDCs) and developed countries (DCs). The paper argues that national trade policies and other economic policies appear to have been relatively supportive of agroindustrial production and exports in Asia. In contrast, policies have had more mixed effects in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), and seem to have been just one component in a larger array of forces inhibiting economic development in Africa. The performance of agroindustrial production and exports from LDCs may be now more dependent than ever on the completion of reforms in the agricultural trade policies of DCs. For Africa, however, a more supportive international environment and better macroeconomic and trade policies will not be enough to ensure a thriving agroindustrial sector within a broader process of economic development until military confrontations stop.
Food safety issues and fresh food product exports from LDCs
Authors: Unnevehr Laurian J.
Published: May 2008

Fresh food products have a high income elasticity of demand and few traditional trade barriers in high income markets. As such, they represent an important opportunity for less developed country (LDC) exporters. Fresh food product exports account for half of all food and agricultural exports from LDCs to high income countries. But these products may be subject to greater food safety risks and potential trade barriers arising from sanitary regulation. This paper reviews the challenges and issues facing LDCs in meeting food safety standards for export. These issues include: (a) the importance of fresh food product trade by region and the kinds of issues that arise from those products; (b) the role of farm to table approaches and hazard analysis critical control points (HACCP) in ensuring safety; (c) the role of the public sector in LDCs in facilitating trade; (d) the potential role of the SPS Agreement in resolving disputes and determining equivalency of standards between high and low income countries.
How private contract enforcement mechanisms can succeed where public institutions
Authors: Gow Hamish R. , Streeter Deborah H. , Swinnen Johan F.M.
Published: May 2008

The enforcement of contracts is necessary for efficient exchange and investment in economic activities. Contracts can be enforced through a variety of mechanisms, both public and private. However, in many developing and transitional countries these public institutions are either absent or ineffective in ensuring contract enforcement. Under such conditions, private enforcement mechanisms may provide a suitable replacement for public enforcement institutions. This may be done externally through a third party or internally through self‐enforcing agreements. This paper analyzes the use of “self‐enforcing” arrangements or “internal” private enforcement mechanisms. Using a case study of an agri‐business in a transition economy — Juhocukor a.s., a Slovakian sugar processor — we show that the use of “internal” private contract enforcement mechanisms can have a significant positive effect on output and efficiency for both partners to the exchange transaction in an environment characterized by the absence or ineffectiveness of public enforcement institutions.
Marriage, Remarriage, and Other Language Games. Emma Gad’s Ægtestand and De unge Drømme and the Comedy of Remarriage
Authors: Wilkinson Lynn R.
Published: May 2008

Emma Gad’s pair of plays, Ægtestand (Marriage) and De unge Drømme (Young Dreams), anticipate the film genre Stanley Cavell called “the comedy of remarriage.” They draw on and parody plays by Ibsen, but also present striking parallels to aspects of modernist drama, notably the genre of the chamber play.
Melancholy and Mourning in Jonathan Safran Foer’s Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
Authors: Uytterschout Sien , Versluys Kristiaan
Published: May 2008

Whereas melancholy (or ‘acting out’) entails a complete repression of all trauma‐related memory, mourning (or ‘working through’) is an endeavour to remember the traumatic event and fit it into a coherent whole. In Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, these two ways of reacting to and dealing with trauma are embodied respectively by the protagonist’s paternal grandfather and by his paternal grandmother, both survivors of the Allied firebombing of Dresden in 1945. Foer ties up this ‘old’ trauma with a fresh one – 11 September 2001 – by having the Schells lose their only son, the protagonist’s father, in the attacks on the World Trade Center. Aspects of both acting out and working through are in turn synthesised in the protagonist himself – Oskar Schell. In his behaviour, the boy displays characteristics of both a melancholic and a mourner.
Cracking the whip on childhood mortality – role of the specialized neonatal unit in Eritrea
Authors: Zemichael O , Nyarang'o P , Mufunda J
Published: May 2008

Health care services in developing countries are being challenged by high childhood mortality rates. Although there have been tremendous strides made in reducing infant mortality rates largely due to vaccinations and improved standards of living, a lot remains to be done to reduce neonatal mortality. Achievement of the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) number 4 on childhood mortality will remain unattainable in most developing countries unless purpose based interventions targeted at reducing neonatal mortality are instituted. This viewpoint is based on the experiences gained in Eritrea, a country that gained independence less than twenty years ago following a protracted war that left a trail of destruction of infrastructure in general and health facilities in particular. War that broke out with Ethiopia less than 10 years into its independence and border conflicts followed by a no peace no war stalemate situation aggravated by frequent droughts have continued to throttle economic recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitative efforts. The population is estimated at 3.5 million comprising of nine ethnic groups who speak different languages. The country has a surface area of 124 000 km2 which shares borders with Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti and the Red Sea.

Conclusion: Attainment of the MDG number 4 on reduction of childhood mortality can be achieved by addressing morbidities of the neonate where the bottle neck currently appears to be sited.
Factors Preventing Intra-Family Succession
Authors: De Massis Alfredo , Chua Jess H. , Chrisman James J.
Published: May 2008

Although research on management succession is a dominant topic in the family business literature, little systematic attention has been given to the factors that prevent intra-family succession from occurring. Based on a review and analysis of the literature, this article presents a preliminary model on the factors that prevent intra-family succession.
Structural mobility of the monomeric C‐terminal domain of the HIV‐1 capsid protein
Authors: Alcaraz Luis A. , del Álamo Marta , Mateu Mauricio G. , Neira José L.
Published: May 2008

The capsid protein of HIV‐1 (p24) (CA) forms the mature capsid of the human immunodeficiency virus. Capsid assembly involves hexamerization of the N‐terminal domain and dimerization of the C‐terminal domain of CA (CAC), and both domains constitute potential targets for anti‐HIV therapy. CAC homodimerization occurs mainly through its second helix, and it is abolished when its sole tryptophan is mutated to alanine. This mutant, CACW40A, resembles a transient monomeric intermediate formed during dimerization. Its tertiary structure is similar to that of the subunits in the dimeric, non‐mutated CAC, but the segment corresponding to the second helix samples different conformations. The present study comprises a comprehensive examination of the CACW40A internal dynamics. The results obtained, with movements sampling a wide time regime (from pico‐ to milliseconds), demonstrate the high flexibility of the whole monomeric protein. The conformational exchange phenomena on the micro‐to‐millisecond time scale suggest a role for internal motions in the monomer–monomer interactions and, thus, flexibility of the polypeptide chain is likely to contribute to the ability of the protein to adopt different conformational states, depending on the biological environment.
Comparing the Difficulty of Examination Subjects with Item Response Theory
Authors: Korobko Oksana B. , Glas Cees A. W. , Bosker Roel J. , Luyten Johan W.
Published: May 2008

Methods are presented for comparing grades obtained in a situation where students can choose between different subjects. It must be expected that the comparison between the grades is complicated by the interaction between the students' pattern and level of proficiency on one hand, and the choice of the subjects on the other hand. Three methods based on item response theory (IRT) for the estimation of proficiency measures that are comparable over students and subjects are discussed: a method based on a model with a unidimensional representation of proficiency, a method based on a model with a multidimensional representation of proficiency, and a method based on a multidimensional representation of proficiency where the stochastic nature of the choice of examination subjects is explicitly modeled. The methods are compared using the data from the Central Examinations in Secondary Education in the Netherlands. The results show that the unidimensional IRT model produces unrealistic results, which do not appear when using the two multidimensional IRT models. Further, it is shown that both the multidimensional models produce acceptable model fit. However, the model that explicitly takes the choice process into account produces the best model fit.
A Comparison of Tests for Equality of Two or More Independent Alpha Coefficients
Authors: Kim Seonghoon , Feldt Leonard S.
Published: May 2008

This article extends the Bonett (2003a) approach to testing the equality of alpha coefficients from two independent samples to the case of
m≥2independent samples. The extended Fisher‐Bonett test and its competitor, the Hakstian‐Whalen (1976) test, are illustrated with numerical examples of both hypothesis testing and power calculation. Computer simulations are used to compare the performance of the two tests and theFeldt (1969)test (for m=2) in terms of power and Type I error control. It is shown that the Fisher‐Bonett test is just as effective as its competitors in controlling Type I error, is comparable to them in power, and is equally robust against heterogeneity of error variance.
A Statistical Sediment Yield Prediction Model Incorporating the Effect of Fires and Subsequent Storm Events1
Authors: Pak Jang Hyuk , Lee Jiin‐Jen
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Alluvial fans are continuously being developed for residential, industrial, commercial, and agricultural uses in southern California. Development and alteration of alluvial fans need to consider the possibility of mud and debris flows from upstream mountain watersheds affected by fires. Accurate prediction of sediment yield (or hyper‐concentrated sediment yield) is essential for the design, operation, and maintenance of debris basins to safeguard properly the general populace. This paper presents a model for the prediction of sediment yields that result from a combination of fire and subsequent storm events. The watersheds used in this analysis are located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in southern California. A multiple regression analysis is first utilized to establish a fundamental statistical relationship for sediment yield as a function of relief ratio, drainage area, maximum 1‐h rainfall intensity and fire factor using 45 years of data (1938‐1983). In addition, a method for multi‐sequence sediment yield prediction under fire conditions was developed and calibrated using 17 years of sediment yield, fire, and precipitation data for the period 1984‐2000. After calibration, this model was verified by applying it to provide a prediction of the sediment yields for the 2001‐2002 fire events in southern California. The findings indicate a strong correlation between the estimated and measured sediment yields. The proposed method for sequence sediment yield prediction following fire events can be a useful tool to schedule cleanout operations for debris basins and to develop an emergency response strategy for the southern California region where plentiful sediment supplies exist and frequent fires occur.
Isolation and characterization of new polymorphic microsatellite loci in the mixotrophic orchid Limodorum abortivum L. Swartz (Orchidaceae)
Authors: LOMBARDO V. TRANCHIDA , HOPKINS S. E. , SELOSSE M.‐A. , COZZOLINO S. , TAYLOR D. L.
Published: May 2008

Here, we report the isolation and characterization of 11 polymorphic microsatellites in Limodorum abortivum. Allele variability has been characterized in three populations from Southern Italy and France. The number of alleles ranged from one to six per locus with an average of 3.8 alleles per locus. Observed and expected heterozygosity values ranged from 0.000 to 1.000 and from 0.492 to 0.806, respectively, with striking differences among populations. These microsatellites should be valuable tools for studying fine‐scale genetic structure of scattered Limodorum abortivum populations, patterns of relationship with closely related taxa and the evolutionary ecology of its mycorrhizal interactions.
Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in Raw Milk Produced in Brazil: Occurrence and Interference of Indigenous Microbiota in their Isolation and Development
Authors: Nero L. A. , De Mattos M. R. , De Aguiar Ferreira Barros M. , Ortolani M. B. T. , Beloti V. , De Melo Franco B. D. G.
Published: May 2008

This study aimed to verify the occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in raw milk produced in Brazil. On account of the poor microbiological quality of this product, possible interference from the indigenous microbiota in these pathogens was also evaluated. Two‐hundred and ten raw milk samples were collected in four important milk‐producing areas in Brazil, tested for L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. presence, and for enumeration of indicator microorganisms: mesophilic aerobes, total coliforms and Escherichia coli. The interference of the indigenous microbiota in the isolation procedures was also tested, as well the frequency of naturally occurring raw milk strains with antagonistic activity against both pathogens. The pathogens were not isolated in any raw milk sample, but poor microbiological quality was confirmed by the high levels of indicator microorganisms. When present at high levels, the indigenous microbiota generated an evident interference in the methodologies of L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. isolation, mainly when the pathogens appeared at low levels. Three‐hundred and sixty raw milk strains were tested for antagonistic activity against both pathogens, and 91 (25.3%) showed inhibitory activity against L. monocytogenes and 33 (9.2%) against Salmonella spp. The majority of the antagonistic strains were identified as Lactic Acid Bacteria species, mainly Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis and Enterococcus faecium, known by antimicrobial substance production.
Multiplex PCR and RPLA Identification of Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxigenic Strains From Bulk Tank Milk
Authors: Zouharova M. , Rysanek D.
Published: May 2008

Enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus in raw milk poses a potential health hazard to consumers, and the identification of such strains should be used as part of a risk analysis of milk and milk products. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of enterotoxigenic S. aureus strains in raw milk supplied for dairy processing in the Czech Republic. A further aim was to compare the production of staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs) with the presence of the corresponding genes. This was undertaken using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reversed passive latex agglutination (RPLA). Out of 440 bulk tank milk samples from 298 dairy herds, 70 proved positive for S. aureus (15.9%). Staphylococcal enterotoxin genes (ses) were detected in 39 (55.7%) isolates. The genes most commonly detected were sei (38.6%), seg (31.4%) and sea (27.1%). Genes seb, seh, sed, sej and sec were observed in 10%, 4.3%, 2.9%, 2.9% and 1.4% of strains respectively. Genes see and sel did not occur. The most frequently detected genotypes were seg, sei at 11.4%; sea at 10.0%; and sea, seg, sei at 8.6%. Toxin production was observed in nine (12.9%) S. aureus isolates. Seven strains were detected as SEB‐ (10%) and two as SED‐ (2.9%) producing. A relatively high number (32%) of discrepancies between the results with multiplex PCR and RPLA assays was obtained, particularly on account of SEA. Nineteen strains were sea positive by PCR but SEA negative by RPLA, and one strain was sec positive and SEC negative. The results of both methods were identical concerning SEB and SED. It was concluded that detection of ses by PCR was a useful additional tool to support identification of enterotoxigenic strains.
A Review of Management Practices for the Control of Anthrax in Animals: The 2005 Anthrax Epizootic in North Dakota – Case Study
Authors: Ndiva Mongoh M. , Dyer N. W. , Stoltenow C. L. , Hearne R. , Khaitsa M. L.
Published: May 2008

Outbreaks of anthrax have diverse consequences on society. Establishing the appropriate control strategies is very important and crucial in reducing the socio‐economic impact of the disease. Control measures are aimed at breaking the cycle of infection, and their implementation must be adhered to rigorously. The objectives of this paper were: (i) to review the control strategies currently used in management of anthrax in animals and (ii) to describe management strategies used by producers in North Dakota during the 2005 anthrax outbreak in livestock. Anthrax control strategies were divided in to strategies that apply before, during, and after an anthrax outbreak. This paper also highlights the problems or constraints faced by North Dakota producers in controlling anthrax during the outbreak of 2005.
Undiscovered role of endogenous thromboxane A2 in activation of cardiac sympathetic afferents during ischaemia
Authors: Fu Liang‐Wu , Guo Zhi‐Ling , Longhurst John C.
Published: May 2008

Myocardial ischaemia activates blood platelets, which in turn stimulate cardiac sympathetic afferents, leading to chest pain and sympathoexcitatory reflex cardiovascular responses. Previous studies have shown that activated platelets stimulate ischaemically sensitive cardiac sympathetic afferents, and that thromboxane A2 (TxA2) is one of the mediators released from activated platelets during myocardial ischaemia. The present study tested the hypothesis that endogenous TxA2 stimulates cardiac afferents during ischaemia through direct activation of TxA2 (TP) receptors coupled with the phospholipase C–protein kinase C (PLC–PKC) cellular pathway. Nerve activity of single unit cardiac sympathetic afferents was recorded from the left sympathetic chain or rami communicantes (T2–T5) in anaesthetized cats. Single fields of 39 afferents (conduction velocity = 0.27–3.65 m s−1) were identified in the left or right ventricle initially with mechanical stimulation and confirmed with a stimulating electrode. Five minutes of myocardial ischaemia stimulated all 39 cardiac afferents (8 Aδ‐, 31 C‐fibres) and the responses of these 39 afferents to chemical stimuli were further studied in the following four protocols. In the first protocol, 2.5, 5 and 10 μg of the TxA2 mimetic, U46619, injected into the left atrium (LA), stimulated seven ischaemically sensitive cardiac afferents in a dose‐dependent manner. Second, BM13,177, a selective TxA2 receptor antagonist, abolished the responses of six afferents to 5 μg of U46619 injected into the left atrium and attenuated the ischaemia‐related increase in activity of seven other afferents by 44%. In contrast, cardiac afferents, in the absence of TP receptor blockade responded consistently to repeated administration of U46619 (n= 6) and to recurrent myocardial ischaemia (n= 7). In the fourth protocol, administration of PKC‐(19–36), a selective PKC inhibitor, attenuated the responses of six other cardiac afferents to U46619 by 38%. Finally, using an immunohistochemical staining approach, we observed that TP receptors were expressed in cardiac sensory neurons in thoracic dorsal root ganglia. Taken together, these data indicate that endogenous TxA2 contributes to the activation of cardiac afferents during myocardial ischaemia through direct stimulation of TP receptors probably located in the cardiac sensory nervous system and that the stimulating effect of TxA2 on cardiac afferents is dependent, at least in part, upon the PLC–PKC cellular pathway.