bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Update of fecal markers of inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Judd Thomas A , Day Andrew S , Lemberg Daniel A , Turner Dan , Leach Steven T
Published: July 2011

The diagnosis, prognosis, and assessment of disease activity of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) require investigating clinical, radiological, and histological criteria, as well as serum inflammatory markers. However, a range of fecal inflammatory markers now appears to have the potential to greatly assist in these processes. Calprotectin, a prominent neutrophil protein, was identified two decades ago as a potentially revolutionary marker for IBD. Following this discovery, numerous additional markers, including S100A12, lactoferrin, and M2‐pyruvate kinase, have also been suggested as novel markers of IBD. In the present study, we provide an up‐to‐date review of fecal markers of IBD, and further, provide a novel analysis of each of these fecal markers in severe ulcerative colitis and compare their expression pattern in contrast to calprotectin.
The perioperative dialogue reduces postoperative stress in children undergoing day surgery as confirmed by salivary cortisol
Authors: Wennström Berith , Törnhage Carl‐Johan , Nasic Salmir , Hedelin Hans , Bergh Ingrid
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the efficacy of ‘the perioperative dialogue (PD)’ by analyzing salivary cortisol, in 5‐ to 11‐year‐old children undergoing day surgery.

Background:  To deal with anxiety prior to investigations and/or procedures, children need to be confident and informed about what is going to happen. Therefore, intervention strategies should be initiated before admission to hospital.

Methods and materials:  Children (n = 93), 79 boys and 14 girls, scheduled for elective day surgery requiring general anesthesia were randomly recruited into three groups: (i) standard perioperative care (n = 31), (ii) standard perioperative care including preoperative information (n = 31), and (iii) the PD (n = 31). Saliva was sampled for cortisol analysis at specific time points during the pre‐ and perioperative procedures.

Results:  The children who received the PD had significantly lower (P = 0.003) salivary cortisol concentrations postoperatively. Moreover, it continuously decreased during the day of surgery compared with the other two groups (P < 0.01). Among the children who received analgesics, the PD group received significantly less morphine (P = 0.014) related to bodyweight: the mean dose was 0.1 mg·kg−1 (n = 9) in the control group vs 0.04 mg·kg−1 (n = 6) in the PD group. Irrespective of group, there was a positive correlation between the children’s morphine consumption and salivary cortisol concentration (r = 0.56; P = 0.038). The W‐B scale score was higher in the group that received morphine (median = 3 vs median=1; P = 0.001).

Conclusions:  The PD’s caring, continuity, and on‐going dialogues were associated with low concentrations of salivary cortisol postoperatively and reduced morphine consumption and thus appears to be a valuable complement to standard perioperative care in children undergoing day surgery.
The Mediterranean Sea under siege: spatial overlap between marine biodiversity, cumulative threats and marine reserves
Authors: Coll Marta , Piroddi Chiara , Albouy Camille , Ben Rais Lasram Frida , Cheung William W. L. , Christensen Villy , Karpouzi Vasiliki S. , Guilhaumon François , Mouillot David , Paleczny Michelle , Palomares Maria Lourdes , Steenbeek Jeroen , Trujillo Pablo , Watson Reg , Pauly Daniel
Published: July 2011

Aim  A large body of knowledge exists on individual anthropogenic threats that have an impact on marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea, although we know little about how these threats accumulate and interact to affect marine species and ecosystems. In this context, we aimed to identify the main areas where the interaction between marine biodiversity and threats is more pronounced and to assess their spatial overlap with current marine protected areas in the Mediterranean.

Location  Mediterranean Sea.

Methods  We first identified areas of high biodiversity of marine mammals, marine turtles, seabirds, fishes and commercial or well‐documented invertebrates. We mapped potential areas of high threat where multiple threats are occurring simultaneously. Finally we quantified the areas of conservation concern for biodiversity by looking at the spatial overlap between high biodiversity and high cumulative threats, and we assessed the overlap with protected areas.

Results  Our results show that areas with high marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea are mainly located along the central and north shores, with lower values in the south‐eastern regions. Areas of potential high cumulative threats are widespread in both the western and eastern basins, with fewer areas located in the south‐eastern region. The interaction between areas of high biodiversity and threats for invertebrates, fishes and large animals in general (including large fishes, marine mammals, marine turtles and seabirds) is concentrated in the coastal areas of Spain, Gulf of Lions, north‐eastern Ligurian Sea, Adriatic Sea, Aegean Sea, south‐eastern Turkey and regions surrounding the Nile Delta and north‐west African coasts. Areas of concern are larger for marine mammal and seabird species.

Main conclusions  These areas may represent good candidates for further research, management and protection activities, since there is only a maximum 2% overlap between existing marine protected areas (which cover 5% of the Mediterranean Sea) and our predicted areas of conservation concern for biodiversity.
Do Recruitment Ties Affect Wages? An Analysis using Matched Employer–Employee Data from Vietnam
Authors: Larsen Anna Folke , Rand John , Torm Nina
Published: July 2011

This paper examines the extent to which recruitment ties affect individual wage outcomes in small and medium scale manufacturing firms. Based on a unique matched employer–employee dataset from Vietnam the authors find that there is a significant positive wage premium associated with obtaining a job through an informal contact, when controlling for standard determinants of wage compensation. Moreover, they show that the mechanism through which informal contacts affect wages depends on the type of recruitment tie used. The findings are robust across location, firm size categories, and different worker types.
Entropy, the Anthroposphere and the Ecology of Civilization: An Essay on the Problem of ‘Liberalism in One Village’ in the Long View
Authors: Quilley Stephen
Published: July 2011

In his theory of civilizing processes Elias drew attention, albeit obliquely, to the interweaving connections between ecological, biological, social and psychological processes operating at a variety of nested temporal scales. Elucidating a series of fundamental propositions, this paper is an attempt firstly to explicate the parameters of the general theory of humanity that is implicit in his concrete historical studies, and secondly to apply this theory to linked problems of global sustainability and cosmopolitan democracy. Building on Goudsblom's concept of the ‘anthroposphere’, I argue that long-term processes of social development have always been synonymous with a specific process of ecological transformation defined by ‘trophic expansion’. This Eliasian approach to human ecology is then used to explore the global environmental ecological crisis through the lens of the longue durée. From this perspective, I question liberal assumptions about the natural affinity between democracy and ecological sustainability and, more specifically, the possibility of ‘low energy cosmopolitanism’. Developing ideas hinted at by C. H. Waddington in the 1960s and more recently by James Lovelock, I argue that any long-term future for complex, cosmopolitan societies and a sustainable rapprochement between the biosphere and the anthroposphere, will depend on the emergence of technologies of ‘trophic detachment’.
Meetings: The Frontline of Civilization
Authors: van Vree Wilbert
Published: July 2011

The meetingization of society as a central aspect of civilizing processes is the theme of this article. This term refers to a long-term social process: as larger numbers of people become mutually dependent over larger areas and/or differences in power decrease between people, an increased number of problems needs to be solved through talking and decision-making in meetings which require an ever-increasingly precise, more equal and more embracing regulation of impulses and short-lived affects. This ‘compulsion to meet’ is less well developed when the networks of mutual dependence are smaller and less stable, and/or the balances of power are more unequal.
Delayed pressure urticaria – Dapsone heading for first‐line therapy?
Authors: Grundmann Sonja Alexandra , Kiefer Sabine , Luger Thomas Anton , Brehler Randolf
Published: July 2011

Background: Pressure urticaria as a subform of physical urticaria is rare and treatment is often difficult. Established therapeutic regimes include antihistamines (generally exceeding approved dosages in order to achieve a therapeutic benefit) or antihistamines combined with montelukast. Complete relief of symptoms is difficult.

Patients and methods: We used dapsone as an early therapeutic alternative in the event of treatment failure and established a standardized therapeutic regime at our clinic. We surveyed 31 patients retrospectively who had received dapsone between 2003–2009.

Results: In 74 % of patients in whom symptoms persisted despite established therapies, the results of treatment with dapsone were good or very good. Longer‐term pressure urticaria and the co‐existence of a chronic spontaneous urticaria were associated with a smaller benefit (p<0.05). No significant effects were found related to age, gender, duration of therapy, side‐effects, or Met‐Hb elevation (a tendency toward a decreased benefit was associated with middle‐age, male sex, shorter duration of therapy, observed side‐effects, and Met‐Hb elevation).

Conclusions: Therapy is well tolerated and results in a good therapeutic benefit which lasts after termination of therapy. With adequate monitoring, the use of dapsone in patients with pressure urticaria has such a good risk‐benefit ratio that we support early treatment initiation.
Cyclic GMP induced apoptosis via protein kinase G in oestrogen receptor‐positive and ‐negative breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Fallahian Faranak , Karami‐Tehrani Fatemeh , Salami Siamak , Aghaei Mahmoud
Published: July 2011

The activation of protein kinase G (PKG) by cyclic guanosine 3,5‐monophosphate (cGMP) has become of considerable interest as a novel molecular approach for the induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. The present study was designed to examine the effects of cGMP and PKG on cell growth and apoptosis in the human breast cancer cell lines, MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐468. To achieve this, 1‐benzyl‐3‐(5P‐hydroxymethyl‐2P‐furyl) indazole (YC‐1), a soluble guanylyl cyclase activator, and 8‐bromo‐cGMP (8‐br‐cGMP), a membrane‐permeant and phosphodiesterase‐resistant analogue of cGMP, were employed in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐468 cells. Then, the role of PKG in the induction of apoptosis was evaluated using KT5823 and Rp‐8‐pCPT‐cGMP as specific inhibitors of PKG. The expression of PKG isoforms in these cell lines was also investigated. KT5823 and Rp‐8‐pCPT‐cGMP significantly attenuated the loss of cell viability caused by YC‐1 and 8‐br‐cGMP in these cells. This study provides direct evidence that the activation of PKG by cGMP induces growth inhibition and apoptosis in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐468 breast cancer cell lines.
Structure‐Based Virtual Screening Approach to the Discovery of Novel Inhibitors of Eyes Absent 2 Phosphatase with Various Metal Chelating Moieties
Authors: Park Hwangseo , Jung Suk‐Kyeong , Yu Keum R. , Kim Ju H. , Kim Yong‐Sam , Ko Jeong H. , Park Byoung C. , Kim Seung J.
Published: July 2011

Despite a series of persuasive experimental evidence for the involvement of eyes absent protein tyrosine phosphatases in various human cancers, no small‐molecule inhibitor has been reported so far. We have identified seven novel inhibitors of eyes absent homologue 2 (Eya2) with IC50 values ranging from 1 to 70 μm by the virtual screening with docking simulations and enzyme inhibition assay. Atomic charges of the active‐site Mg2+ ion complex are calculated to enhance the accuracy of docking simulations. The newly discovered inhibitors are structurally diverse and have various chelating groups for the Mg2+ ion. The interactions with the amino acid residues responsible for the stabilizations of the inhibitors in the active site of Eya2 are addressed in detail.
Acoustic shock wave propagation in a heterogeneous medium: A numerical simulation beyond the parabolic approximation
Authors: Dagrau Franck , Rénier Mathieu , Marchiano Régis , Coulouvrat François
Published: July 2011

Numerical simulation of nonlinear acoustics and shock waves in a weakly heterogeneous and lossless medium is considered. The wave equation is formulated so as to separate homogeneous diffraction, heterogeneous effects, and nonlinearities. A numerical method called heterogeneous one-way approximation for resolution of diffraction (HOWARD) is developed, that solves the homogeneous part of the equation in the spectral domain (both in time and space) through a one-way approximation neglecting backscattering. A second-order parabolic approximation is performed but only on the small, heterogeneous part. So the resulting equation is more precise than the usual standard or wide-angle parabolic approximation. It has the same dispersion equation as the exact wave equation for all forward propagating waves, including evanescent waves. Finally, nonlinear terms are treated through an analytical, shock-fitting method. Several validation tests are performed through comparisons with analytical solutions in the linear case and outputs of the standard or wide-angle parabolic approximation in the nonlinear case. Numerical convergence tests and physical analysis are finally performed in the fully heterogeneous and nonlinear case of shock wave focusing through an acoustical lens.
A theoretical model of the pressure field arising from asymmetric intraglottal flows applied to a two-mass model of the vocal folds
Authors: Erath Byron D. , Peterson Sean D. , Zañartu Matías , Wodicka George R. , Plesniak Michael W.
Published: July 2011

A theoretical flow solution is presented for predicting the pressure distribution along the vocal fold walls arising from asymmetric flow that forms during the closing phases of speech. The resultant wall jet was analyzed using boundary layer methods in a non-inertial reference frame attached to the moving wall. A solution for the near-wall velocity profiles on the flow wall was developed based on a Falkner-Skan similarity solution and it was demonstrated that the pressure distribution along the flow wall is imposed by the velocity in the inviscid core of the wall jet. The method was validated with experimental velocity data from 7.5 times life-size vocal fold models, acquired for varying flow rates and glottal divergence angles. The solution for the asymmetric pressures was incorporated into a widely used two-mass model of vocal fold oscillation with a coupled acoustical model of sound propagation. Asymmetric pressure loading was found to facilitate glottal closure, which yielded only slightly higher values of maximum flow declination rate and radiated sound, and a small decrease in the slope of the spectral tilt. While the impact on symmetrically tensioned vocal folds was small, results indicate the effect becomes more significant for asymmetrically tensioned vocal folds.
Sound field separation with a double layer velocity transducer array (L)
Authors: Fernandez-Grande Efren , Jacobsen Finn
Published: July 2011

In near-field acoustic holography sound field separation techniques make it possible to distinguish between sound coming from the two sides of the array. This is useful in cases where the sources are not confined to only one side of the array, e.g., in the presence of additional sources or reflections from the other side. This paper examines a separation technique based on measurement of the particle velocity in two closely spaced parallel planes. The purpose of the technique is to recover the particle velocity radiated by a source in the presence of disturbing sound from the opposite side of the array. The technique has been examined and compared with direct velocity based reconstruction, as well as with a technique based on the measurement of the sound pressure and particle velocity. The double layer velocity method circumvents some of the drawbacks of the pressure-velocity based reconstruction, and it can successfully recover the normal velocity radiated by the source, even in the presence of strong disturbing sound.
Overcoming the challenges of bedside teaching in the palliative care setting
Authors: Harris Dylan G
Published: July 2011

Bedside teaching is the process of active learning in the presence of a patient and is one of the most traditional teaching techniques used in undergraduate medicine. Students and patients both appear to benefit from the experience of bedside teaching. However, bedside teaching with medical students and palliative care patients presents a number of challenges for the patient, the learner and the educator. Key considerations for bedside teaching in the palliative care context include: sensitivity to ‘protection’, of palliative care patients by colleagues in relation to their involvement in bedside teaching; consideration of the patient's carer/relative as they will often be present for prolonged periods at the bedside; a maximum of one or two students (not the ‘up to six’ traditionally used in this type of teaching); multiple short encounters with several patients as opposed to a longer encounter with one patient; and sensitivity to the potential impact of the session on the learner as undergraduate medical students and junior doctors may find that while worthwhile and rewarding, the teaching session is also personally emotionally challenging.
MONTE-CARLO SIMULATION OF HEAVY-ION COLLISIONS
Authors: SCHENKE BJÖRN , JEON SANGYONG , GALE CHARLES
Published: July 2011

Results from the Modular Algorithm for Relativistic Treatment of heavy IoN Interactions (MARTINI) are presented. This comprehensive event generator for the hard and penetrating probes in high energy nucleus-nucleus collisions employs a time evolution model for the soft background, PYTHIA 8.1 and the McGill-AMY parton evolution scheme including radiative as well as elastic processes. It generates full event configurations in the high pT region, allowing to perform the same processing as with experimental data, such as multi-particle correlation analyses and full jet reconstruction.
Efficacy and Safety of CVT-E002, a Proprietary Extract of Panax quinquefolius in the Prevention of Respiratory Infections in Influenza-Vaccinated Community-Dwelling Adults: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: McElhaney Janet E. , Simor Andrew E. , McNeil Shelly , Predy Gerald N.
Published: July 2011

CVT-E002 (a proprietary extract) was found to be effective in the prevention of upper respiratory infections (URIs) in healthy adults, and institutionalized and community-dwelling seniors. A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was carried out to determine effects of CVT-E002 in the prevention of URIs in influenza-vaccinated community-dwelling adults. 783 community-dwelling adults were randomized to receive placebo, 400 mg or 800 mg treatment/d (1 : 1 : 1) for 6 months. Primary analysis on the incidence of laboratory-confirmed-clinical URIs (LCCUs), including influenza A and B, was performed on those receiving at least one dose. Secondary analysis was performed on study completers and included incidence, severity, and duration of URIs meeting a Jackson-based criteria and safety of CVT-E002. The incidence of LCCUs in the ITT group was 5.5%, 5.2%, and 4.6% in the placebo, 400 mg and 800 mg groups, respectively (P=0.89). Jackson-confirmed URIs were significantly lower in the treated groups (P<0.04). CVT-E002 supplementation reduced the severity and duration of Jackson-confirmed URIs. The results indicate that CVT-E002 can be safely used by similar groups and may prevent symptoms of URIs; larger sample size is warranted.
Biocompatibility of PLGA/sP(EO-stat-PO)-Coated Mesh Surfaces under Constant Shearing Stress
Authors: Böhm Gabriele , Ushakova Yelena , Alizai Hamid Patrick , Braunschweig Till , Lente Christina , Heffels Karl-Heinz , Groll Jürgen , Neumann Ulf Peter , Junge Karsten
Published: July 2011

Background: In order to allow inflammatory response modification and ultimately improvement in tissue remodeling, we developed a new surface modification for meshes that will serve as a carrier for other substances. Biocompatibility is tested in an animal model. Methods: The animal model for diaphragmatic hernia repair was established in prior studies. Meshes were surface modified with star-configured PEO (polyethylene oxide)-based molecules [sP(EO-stat-PO)]. An electrospun nanoweb of short-term absorbable PLGA (polylactide-co-glycolide) with integrated sP(EO-stat-PO) molecules was applied onto the modified meshes. This coating also served as aerial sealing of the diaphragm. A final layer of hydrogel was applied to the product. Adhesive properties, defect size and mesh shrinkage were determined, and histological and immunohistochemical investigations performed after 4 months. Results: The mean defect size decreased markedly in both modified mesh groups. Histologically and with regard to apoptosis and proliferation rate, smooth muscle cells, collagen I/III ratio and macrophage count, no statistically significant difference was seen between the 3 mesh groups. Conclusions: In this proof-of-principle investigation, we demonstrate good biocompatibility for this surface-modified mesh compared to a standard polypropylene-based mesh. This new coating represents a promising tool as a carrier for bioactive substances in the near future.
N-Acetylcysteine Modulates the Cytotoxic Effects of Paclitaxel
Authors: Lyle Patricia Anne , Mitsopoulos Panagiotis , Suntres Zacharias E.
Published: July 2011

Background: Paclitaxel is a microtubule-stabilizing drug known to cause mitotic G2/M arrest and apoptosis. It also increases the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) known to be involved in both apoptotic and necrotic cell death. Antioxidants, such as N-acetylcysteine (NAC), prevent the deleterious effects of ROS and modulate the regulation of apoptotic-linked cellular proteins. Methods: A549 human adenocarcinoma alveolar epithelial cells were treated with 5.0 mM NAC, 1.0 µM paclitaxel, or co-incubated with both NAC and paclitaxel for a 24-hour incubation period. The effects of NAC in paclitaxel-induced cytotoxicity were evaluated by measuring cell viability, production of ROS, and apoptosis. Results: Challenge of cells with paclitaxel resulted in time/concentration-dependent decreases in cell viability and increases in intracellular levels of ROS, and apoptosis, all effects being abrogated by co-treatment with NAC. NAC reduced the paclitaxel-induced increase in activated caspase-10 levels, but potentiated that for caspase-3. Conclusions: NAC alters the cytotoxicity of paclitaxel in vitro by decreasing the levels of ROS, preventing apoptosis, and modulating apoptotic cellular proteins.
RAN and Double-Deficit Theory
Authors: Cronin Virginia S.
Published: July 2011

Lervag and Hulme’s neuro-developmental theory and Wolf and Bowers’s double-deficit hypothesis were examined in this longitudinal study. A total of 130 children were tested in preschool and followed through fifth grade, when 84 remained in the study. During preschool and kindergarten the participants were given tests of end-sound discrimination (phonological awareness; PA) and the rapid naming of objects (rapid automatic naming; RAN) and were placed into the four groupings of the double-deficit hypothesis. The growth curves for the four groups with the subtests of word reading, pseudoword reading, and comprehension supported the double-deficit hypothesis. The RAN objects scores of preschool and kindergarten predicted reading at every age level and offered support for Lervag and Hulme’s neuro-developmental theory. It was concluded that both RAN and PA predicted reading in the English language throughout the elementary school years and that the early assessments of these variables were more diagnostic than measures at later ages.
Evidence-Based Policies and Practices for Drug-Involved Offenders
Authors: Marlowe Douglas B.
Published: July 2011

Research on effective rehabilitation of drug-involved offenders has advanced considerably in recent years. Yet policies and practices remain rooted in sentiments from decades past when authorities did not know how to supervise drug offenders closely, apply effective behavioral consequences, or treat the disease of addiction. This article reviews evidence-based practices in sentencing, supervision, treatment, and reentry for drug-involved offenders, drawing on painful lessons from past failed policies. Recommendations are offered at each stage in the justice process for incorporating evidence-based principles into sentencing laws, correctional practices, and treatment interventions.
The political economy of Turkish Conservative Democracy as a governmental strategy of industrial relations between Islamism, neoliberalism and social democracy
Authors: Akan Taner
Published: July 2011

Since 2002, the incumbent Justice and Development Party’s (JDP) industrial relations (IR) policy has dichotomized Turkish public opinion. Positions have ranged from socialism to neoliberalism and include a reference to Islamism. This article argues that this ambiguity stems from the confrontation between the JDP’s Islamist sociopolitical background and the confines of Turkish IR under the pressure of neoliberal restructuring. Thus, it aims to crystallize the party’s Conservative Democratic identity in relation to IR by examining how the JDP’s cosmopolitan nature embraces its Islamist, neoliberal and social democratic foundations. This article concludes that, in its current form, Conservative Democracy as an IR governmental strategy has less to do with pure Islamism, neoliberalism or social democracy than with a ‘hard pragmatism’, which is located between the suppression of and support for organized labour under the shadow of the party’s politico-economic agenda.
Displaced Older Adults’ Reactions to and Coping With the Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina
Authors: Kamo Yoshinori , Henderson Tammy L. , Roberto Karen A.
Published: July 2011

Guided by an ecological perspective, the authors examined event, individual, structural/cultural, and family/community factors that shaped the psychological well-being of older adults displaced from New Orleans by Hurricane Katrina. The authors first established the negative effects of displacement on psychological well-being by comparing displaced older adults with permanent Baton Rouge residents. Displaced older persons’ psychological well-being was positively related to their age and physical health. Older displaced women coped with displacement better than men. Avoidant coping was negatively related to the older adults’ well-being, whereas spiritual coping showed no effect. The functioning of older persons’ family was positively related to their psychological well-being, whereas dependence on people outside immediate family showed a negative relationship. Income, education, and race were largely unrelated to psychological well-being. Findings provide implications for future studies regarding the relationship between disaster and psychological well-being and provide practitioners with suggestions for work with older adults displaced by disasters.
Industrial Wind Turbine Development and Loss of Social Justice?
Authors: Krogh Carmen M. E.
Published: July 2011

This article explores the loss of social justice reported by individuals living in the environs of industrial wind turbines (IWTs). References indicate that some individuals residing in proximity to IWT facilities experience adverse health effects. These adverse health effects are severe enough that some families have abandoned their homes. Individuals report they welcomed IWTs into their community and the negative consequences were unexpected. Expressions of grief are exacerbated by the emotional and physical toll of individuals’ symptoms, loss of enjoyment of homes and property, disturbed living conditions, financial loss, and the lack of society’s recognition of their situation. The author has investigated the reported loss of social justice through a review of literature, personal interviews with, and communications from, those reporting adverse health effects. The author’s intention is to create awareness that loss of social justice is being associated with IWT development. This loss of justice arises from a number of factors, including the lack of fair process, the loss of rights, and associated disempowerment. These societal themes require further investigation. Research by health professionals and social scientists is urgently needed to address the health and social impacts of IWTs operating near family homes.
Infrasound From Wind Turbines Could Affect Humans
Authors: Salt Alec N. , Kaltenbach James A.
Published: July 2011

Wind turbines generate low-frequency sounds that affect the ear. The ear is superficially similar to a microphone, converting mechanical sound waves into electrical signals, but does this by complex physiologic processes. Serious misconceptions about low-frequency sound and the ear have resulted from a failure to consider in detail how the ear works. Although the cells that provide hearing are insensitive to infrasound, other sensory cells in the ear are much more sensitive, which can be demonstrated by electrical recordings. Responses to infrasound reach the brain through pathways that do not involve conscious hearing but instead may produce sensations of fullness, pressure or tinnitus, or have no sensation. Activation of subconscious pathways by infrasound could disturb sleep. Based on our current knowledge of how the ear works, it is quite possible that low-frequency sounds at the levels generated by wind turbines could affect those living nearby.
The Problems With “Noise Numbers” for Wind Farm Noise Assessment
Authors: Thorne Bob
Published: July 2011

Human perception responds primarily to sound character rather than sound level. Wind farms are unique sound sources and exhibit special audible and inaudible characteristics that can be described as modulating sound or as a tonal complex. Wind farm compliance measures based on a specified noise number alone will fail to address problems with noise nuisance. The character of wind farm sound, noise emissions from wind farms, noise prediction at residences, and systemic failures in assessment processes are examined. Human perception of wind farm sound is compared with noise assessment measures and complaint histories. The adverse effects on health of persons susceptible to noise from wind farms are examined and a hypothesis, the concept of heightened noise zones (pressure variations), as a marker for cause and effect is advanced. A sound level of LAeq 32 dB outside a residence and above an individual’s threshold of hearing inside the home are identified as markers for serious adverse health effects affecting susceptible individuals. The article is referenced to the author’s research, measurements, and observations at different wind farms in New Zealand and Victoria, Australia.
Instrument, gender and musical style associations in young children
Authors: Marshall Nigel A. , Shibazaki Kagari
Published: July 2011

Numerous studies have explored the relationship between musical instruments and their associations with a particular gender. This study focussed on the developing association between gender and musical instruments in young children and further explored the interaction between gender, instrument and musical style. The research was carried out on 65 participants aged three and four years old. Each participant took part in a short musical game which involved matching 14 musical excerpts with photographs of the individuals who might play the instruments represented within each excerpt. The research used a 2 (gender) × 2 (musical style) × 7 (instrument) factoral design in which a ‘feminine’ or ‘masculine’ instrument was featured playing in a ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’ associated style. Our results suggested that prominent gender stereotypes for some instruments do appear to exist in very young children whilst in other instruments, gender associations appear to be also linked to the musical style in which they are represented and possibly the performance context in which they are experienced.
Diagnostic Profiles of Civilly Committed Sexual Offenders in Illinois and Other Reporting Jurisdictions
Authors: Jumper Shan , Babula Mark , Casbon Todd
Published: July 2011

The records of 377 men civilly committed under Illinois’ Sexually Violent Persons Act were compared with similar published samples from seven other states. Civilly committed sexual offenders in Illinois were more likely to be diagnosed with any personality disorder and more likely to exceed the cutoff score for psychopathy than similar offenders in other states. The authors then present a national composite of demographic, victim, and diagnostic information on men referred or pursued for civil commitment in eight states to better understand how these individuals differ from sex offender populations in correctional settings. Results suggest that there may be less victim specificity in sexually violent person (SVP) populations, as although nearly 50% of SVPs are diagnosed with pedophilia, 80% had committed at least one sexual offense against a child or adolescent victim. Across all samples, 72.7% of SVPs were diagnosed with a personality disorder, with antisocial personality disorder the most prevalent.
The Life Conditions of Australian Ex-Prisoners
Authors: Graffam Joseph , Shinkfield Alison J.
Published: July 2011

Successful reintegration of ex-prisoners into the community is multifaceted. The life conditions of 36 adult Australian ex-prisoners (20 male and 16 female) were examined via a questionnaire administered at 1 to 4 weeks post release, and a subset of 19 of the original respondents were interviewed again at 3 to 4 months post release. Interviews focused on intrapersonal conditions (physical and psychological health and substance use), subsistence conditions (housing, employment, and finance), and support conditions (social support, support services/program participation, and criminal justice support). The majority of ex-prisoners self-reported chronic physical and mental health problems as well as a history of substance use and/or current substance use. Although the housing conditions of ex-prisoners were largely favourable and constant, the employment and financial conditions of this group were generally unfavourable. Level of social support was variable. Theoretical implications and practical applications of the present investigation for reintegration theory are discussed.
Extending producer responsibility up and down the supply chain, challenges and limitation
Authors: Scheijgrond Jan-Willem
Published: July 2011

Producers are given increasing responsibility by governmental organizations to address environmental and human rights issues along the supply chain. While producers indeed have a responsibility to address these issues, governments’ expectations of producers are often too high and in some cases unrealistic. Ruggie’s framework to protect, respect and remedy provides a useful tool to determine the responsibilities of government and business in relation to human rights. If it is applied to product-related environmental aspects, which affect human rights, it offers a good tool to evaluate whether producer responsibility has been implemented in a way to institutionally align business and governments. An analysis of extended producer responsibility up and down the supply chain on the basis of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) legislation, REACH legislation and conflict minerals shows that such alignment has not been achieved.
Interval Timing Is Intact in Arrhythmic Cry1/Cry2-Deficient Mice
Authors: Papachristos Efstathios B. , Jacobs Edwin H. , Elgersma Ype
Published: July 2011

Localizing the self in time is fundamental for daily life functioning and is lacking in severe disabling neuropsychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. Brains keep track of time across an impressive range of scales. Great progress has been made in identifying the molecular machinery of the circadian clock, the brain’s master clock that operates on the 24-hour scale and allows animals to know the “time of the day” that important events occur, without referring to external cues. However, the biology of interval timing, the mechanism responsible for durations in the seconds-to-minutes-to-hours range, remains a mystery, and an obvious question is whether there is a common biological solution for keeping track of time across these 2 time scales. To address this, we trained Cry1/Cry2 double knockout mice on an interval timing task with durations that ranged between 3 and 27 seconds. The mice were kept under constant light conditions to avoid any exogenously induced form of daily rhythmicity. We observed that the homozygous knockouts displayed as accurate and precise a temporal memory as the control mice. This suggests that the Cry1 and Cry2 genes are not an important component of the interval timer. Furthermore, proper calibration of the interval timer does not depend on a functional circadian clock. Thus, these 2 timing systems likely rely on different and independent biological mechanisms.
Phase-Resetting Sensitivity of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus and Oscillator Amplitude
Authors: Buhr Ethan D. , Yoo Seung-Hee , Takahashi Joseph S.
Published: July 2011

The amplitude of a circadian oscillator influences its response to a phase-resetting stimulus. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is unique among circadian clocks in mammals in that the network connections among its neurons confer robustness both in amplitude and in resilience to perturbations. With reduced coupling among SCN neurons, the SCN becomes more susceptible to external phase-shifting stimuli. Thus, stimuli of the same strength will elicit different responses from the same tissue under different states of internal coupling. In his letter, Ruby (2011 [this issue]) discusses potential causes for discrepancies in studies that report dissimilar responses of the SCN to temperature changes. Here, we propose that the differences are likely due to a species difference and a difference in oscillator amplitude. These differences more likely result from inherent differences between mice and rats than from experimental procedures.
Adhesion and Friction of E-Glass Fiber-reinforced Epoxy Composites for Tribo-applications
Authors: Md. Nasir R. , Azizan M.M.
Published: July 2011

Adhesion and friction of E-glass fiber-reinforced epoxy (E-GFRE) composites were studied using pin-on-disc tester. The worn surfaces of the composites were examined using scanning electron microscope. The results showed that the wear resistance of E-GFRE composites can be improved by inserting approximately 5–10 wt% C-filler loading. Above 10 wt%, the wear mass loss increased linearly with increasing C-filler loading. The reinforcing C-filled E-GFRE composites have almost the same friction coefficient as the pure epoxy matrix which increased slightly on increasing C-filler loading. From the SEM microscopy observation, the main wear mechanisms for pure E-GFRE composites were plastic deformation, abrasive wear, and fatigue wear.
Studies on the Mechanical and Degradation Properties of Jute Fabric-Reinforced Natural Rubber Composite: Effect of Gamma Radiation
Authors: Mushfequr Rahman M. , Sharmin Nusrat , Khan Ruhul A. , Dey Kamol , Haque M. E.
Published: July 2011

Jute fabric-reinforced natural rubber (NR) based composites were produced by compression molding. Tensile strength (TS), tensile modulus (TM), elongation at break (Eb) bending strength (BS), bending modulus (BM), and softness of the composite were 30 MPa, 395 MPa, 65%, 10 MPa, 2130 MPa, and 79 Shore-A, respectively. Degradation nature of the composite was investigated in soil and aqueous medium. To improve the compatibility between fiber and matrix, the composites were irradiated with gamma rays. Total radiation dose varied from 50 to 1000 krad. Tensile properties of the irradiated (250 krad) composites improved significantly (TS and TM increased 47% and 147%).
Improvement of Mechanical Properties of Injection-Molded Polylactic Acid–Kenaf Fiber Biocomposite
Authors: Anuar H. , Zuraida A. , Kovacs J. G. , Tabi T.
Published: July 2011

The motive of this study is to lessen the dependence on non-degradable plastic packaging by developing alternative material; reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) with kenaf fiber (KF) biocomposite using available plastic processing machineries. For that reason, this study focuses on fabrication of PLA–KF biocomposite using intermeshing co-rotating twin-screw extruder and then injection molded for mechanical characterization. The effect of KF loading from 0 to 20 wt% was studied. No coupling agent was added due to high affinity of PLA and KF and both components are hydrophilic in nature. The average of KF aspect ratio is 30. Tensile properties and flexural properties show similar trend where significant improvement was attained at 20 wt% KF content. Scanning electron micrograph of tensile fracture specimen has revealed the hypothesis of interaction between fiber and matrix which subsequently amplified the tensile properties. It is an interesting finding where the experimental value of tensile modulus was 15% higher than theoretical tensile modulus at 20 wt% KF. Additionally, PLA–KF bicomposite produced, has high specific strength and specific modulus. This could suggest that KF may be incorporated into PLA to reduce mass of the end product and substantially reduce the cost of raw materials. As expected, impact strength however decreases with KF content.
Synaesthetic Associations Decrease During Infancy
Authors: Wagner Katie , Dobkins Karen R.
Published: July 2011

Early development is characterized by a period of exuberant neural connectivity followed by a retraction and reweighting of connections over the course of development. It has been proposed that this connectivity may facilitate arbitrary sensory experiences in infants that are unlike anything experienced by typical adults but are similar to the sensory experiences of adults with synaesthesia, a rare sensory phenomenon that has been associated with exuberant neural connectivity and that is characterized by strong arbitrary associations between different sensations. We provide the first evidence for this infant-synaesthesia hypothesis by showing that the presence of particular shapes influences color preferences in typical 2- and 3-month-olds, but not in 8-month-olds or adults. These results are consistent with the possibility that exuberant neural connectivity facilitates synaesthetic associations during infancy that are typically eliminated during development, but that a failure of the retraction process leads in rare cases to synaesthesia in adults.
Introduction to 2004 Papers
Authors: Isasi-Díaz Ada María
Published: July 2011

I came to the formal study of theology after years as an activist both in the USA and in Perú, and from that work of activism, in which I am still involved, I have learned that one of the best approximations we can have to reality comes if we see life, if we see reality, as a process. So I entered and have stayed with the elaboration of Mujerista Theology in this sense of engaging in a process. Processes have to be mindful of both content and method and that is what I have tried to do in my work. I have seen my work as providing a platform for the voices of grassroots Latinas who are admirably capable of reflecting on their faith and its meaning in their daily lives — in lo cotidiano — and they are perfectly capable of explaining that faith. I entered this process of doing theology with certain intuitions that I think are still operative today though their meanings have evolved and others have been added. I do not think it is of value to spend my time and energy answering ad hominem critiques. I am not willing to allow others to define my agenda and take up my time when their goal is not dialogue but rather criticism for the sake of criticism.
Mujerista Theology: Biblical Interpretation and Political Theology
Authors: Segovia Fernando F.
Published: July 2011

This piece highlights the important contribution of the historical project of Mujerista Theology, as conceptualized and formulated by Ada María Isasi-Díaz, to the discourses of biblical criticism and Political Theology. With regard to the former, it is argued that mujerista interpretation interacts with key developments in biblical criticism, such as liberation hermeneutics (focus on liberation from domination, by way of critical engagement with biblical texts), literary criticism (focus on Latinas as real readers) and ideological criticism (focus on Latinas as minority readers). With respect to the latter, it is argued that Mujerista Theology represents an excellent example of Political Theology (focus on Cuba as political imaginary and as grounds for theological reflection and action).
Investigating the Role of Gender and Delinquency in Exposure to Violence Among Puerto Rican Youth
Authors: Reingle Jennifer M. , Jennings Wesley G. , Maldonado-Molina Mildred M. , Piquero Alex R. , Canino Glorisa
Published: July 2011

Using a longitudinal sample of Puerto Rican adolescents living in the Bronx, New York, this study examines the predictors of exposure to violence within gender. Results from a series of negative binomial regressions suggested (a) sensation seeking, peer delinquency, coercive discipline, and initial delinquency increased the likelihood of exposure to violence for both males and females at multiple time points and (b) initial delinquency was the only consistent predictor of exposure to violence at all time points. Regarding the role of gender, the results indicated that some risk factors were similar across genders (e.g., sensation seeking, coercive discipline, peer delinquency, and delinquent behavior), whereas other risk factors differed across gender (e.g., age and welfare among males and school environment for females). Study limitations and implications are discussed.
World Bank Structural Adjustment, Water, and Sanitation: A Cross-National Analysis of Child Mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Shandra Carrie L. , Shandra John M. , London Bruce
Published: July 2011

The authors conduct a cross-national analysis that seeks to accomplish two important goals. First, they test dependency theory’s hypotheses that World Bank structural adjustment adversely affects child mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa. Second, they empirically evaluate the effect of access to clean water and basic sanitation on child mortality. In doing so, they use two-way fixed effects regression models to analyze child mortality using data on 31 nations and four time points (1990, 1995, 2000, and 2005). They find substantial support for their first goal relating to dependency theory that when a Sub-Saharan African nation is under a World Bank structural adjustment loan, then it tends to have higher levels of child mortality. They also find support for their second goal concerning the importance of including environmental variables in cross-national research on health. Specifically, they find that higher levels of access to an improved water source and an improved sanitation facility are associated with lower levels of child mortality within Sub-Saharan African nations. The authors conclude by discussing the findings, theoretical implications, methodological implications, policy suggestions, and possible directions for future research.