bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standard data models for interoperability of municipal infrastructure asset management systems
Authors: Halfawy Mahmoud R , Vanier Dana J , Froese Thomas M
Published: April 2007

Efficient management of infrastructure assets depends largely on the ability to efficiently share, exchange, and manage asset life-cycle information. Although software tools are used to support almost every asset management process in municipalities, data exchange is mainly performed using paper-based or neutral file formats based on ad hoc proprietary data models. Interoperability of various asset management systems is crucial to support better management of infrastructure data and to improve the information flow between various work processes. Standard data models can be used to significantly improve the availability and consistency of asset data across different software systems, to integrate data across various disciplines, and to exchange information between various stakeholders. This paper surveys a number of data standards that might be used in implementing interoperable and integrated infrastructure asset management systems. The main requirements for standard data models are outlined, and the importance of interoperability from an asset management perspective is highlighted. The role that spatial data and geographic information systems (GIS) can play in enhancing the efficiency of managing asset life-cycle data is also discussed. An ongoing effort to develop a standard data model for sewer systems is presented, and an example implementation of interoperable GIS and hydraulic modeling software is discussed.Key words: data standards, municipal infrastructure, asset management, data models, interoperability.
Asymmetric organocatalytic direct aldol reactions of cyclohexanone with aldehydes in brine
Authors: Huang Wen-Ping , Chen Jia-Rong , Li Xin-Yong , Cao Yi-Ju , Xiao Wen-Jing
Published: April 2007

Organocatalytic asymmetric direct aldol reactions in brine with high diastereo- and enantioselectivities, using a readily available bifunctional amide catalyst, were developed.Key words: aldol reaction, organocatalyst, asymmetric catalysis, water.
HNF-1α plays an important role in IL-6-induced expression of the human angiotensinogen gene
Authors: Jain Sudhir , Li Yanna , Patil Sai , Kumar Ashok
Published: May 2007

Angiotensinogen (AGT) is the precursor of one of the most important vasoactive hormone angiotensin II and this gene locus is associated with human essential hypertension. AGT is an acute phase protein and its gene expression is regulated by IL-6. Previous studies have identified three potential STAT-3 binding sites (APREs) located between −160 and −280 of the hAGT gene promoter but only APRE-1 (located between −271 and −279) was shown to be a bonafide enhancer for IL-6-induced promoter activity. We show here that APRE-2, located between −236 and −247, is indeed an HNF-1α-binding site and plays an important role in basal and IL-6 induced promoter activity of this gene. Our chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay shows that HNF-1α binds to this region of the hAGT gene promoter and its recruitment is increased in the presence of IL-6 in Hep3B cells. We also show that the promoter activity of a deletion construct containing only 223 bp of the hAGT gene promoter (that contains only APRE-3) is increased after IL-6 treatment. Our ChIP assay shows that IL-6 treatment recruits STAT-3 to APRE-3 and suggests that this is also an IL6 responsive element. We have previously shown that GR binds to the proximal promoter of the hAGT gene. Since GR physically interacts with STAT-3, we propose that transcription factors GR, STAT-3, and HNF-1α that bind to the nucleotide sequence located between −160 and −280 of the hAGT gene promoter are responsible for IL-6 induced promoter activity of this gene.
A primary culture of mouse proximal tubular cells, established on collagen-coated membranes
Authors: Terryn Sara , Jouret François , Vandenabeele Frank , Smolders Inge , Moreels Marjan , Devuyst Olivier , Steels Paul , Kerkhove Emmy Van
Published: May 2007

A simple method is described to establish primary cultures of kidney proximal tubule cells (PTC) on membranes. The permeable membranes represent a unique culture surface, allowing a high degree of differentiation since both apical and basolateral membranes are accessible for medium. Proximal tubule (PT) segments from collagenase-digested mouse renal cortices were grown for 7 days, by which time cells were organized as a confluent monolayer. Electron microscopic evaluation revealed structurally polarized epithelial cells with numerous microvilli, basolateral invaginations, and apical tight junctions. Immunoblotting for markers of distinct parts of the nephron demonstrated that these primary cultures only expressed PT-specific proteins. Moreover immunodetection of distinct components of the receptor-mediated endocytic pathway and uptake of FITC-albumin indicated that these cells expressed a functional endocytotic apparatus. In addition, primary cultures possessed the PT brush-border enzymes, alkaline phosphatase, and γ-glutamyl-transferase, and a phloridzin-sensitive sodium-dependent glucose transport at their apical side. Electrophysiological measurements show that the primary cultured cells have a low transepithelial resistance and high short-circuit current that was completely carried by Na+similar to a leaky epithelium like proximal tubule cells. This novel method established well-differentiated PTC cultures.
Postsynaptic Currents Prior to Onset of Epileptiform Activity in Rat Microgyria
Authors: Zsombok A. , Jacobs K. M.
Published: May 2007

Structural malformations of the cortex, arising as a result of genetic mutation or injury during development are associated with dyslexia, epilepsy, and other neurological deficits. We have used a rat model of a microgyral malformation to examine mechanisms of epileptogenesis. Our previous studies showed that the frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) recorded in neocortical layer V pyramidal neurons is increased in malformed cortex at a time when field potential epileptiform events can be evoked. Here we show that the increase occurs at an age before onset of cortical epileptiform activity and at a time when the frequency of mEPSCs in control layer V pyramidal neurons is stable. An increase in the frequency of spontaneous (s)EPSCs in layer V pyramidal neurons of malformed cortex occurs earlier than that for mEPSCs, suggesting that there may additionally be alterations in intrinsic properties that increase the excitability of the cortical afferents. Frequencies of EPSC bursts and late evoked activity were also increased in malformed cortex. These results suggest that a hyperinnervation of layer V pyramidal neurons by excitatory afferents occurs as an active process likely contributing to subsequent development of field epileptiform events.
Spike Timing of Lacunosom-Moleculare Targeting Interneurons and CA3 Pyramidal Cells During High-Frequency Network Oscillations In Vitro
Authors: Spampanato Jay , Mody Istvan
Published: May 2007

Network activity in the 200- to 600-Hz range termed high-frequency oscillations (HFOs) has been detected in epileptic tissue from both humans and rodents and may underlie the mechanism of epileptogenesis in experimental rodent models. Slower network oscillations including theta and gamma oscillations as well as ripples are generated by the complex spike timing and interactions between interneurons and pyramidal cells of the hippocampus. We determined the activity of CA3 pyramidal cells, stratum oriens lacunosum-moleculare (O-LM) and s. radiatum lacunosum-moleculare (R-LM) interneurons during HFO in the in vitro low-Mg2+ model of epileptiform activity in GIN mice. In these animals, interneurons can be identified prior to cell-attached recordings by the expression of green-fluorescent protein (GFP). Simultaneous local field potential recordings from s. pyramidale and on-cell recordings of individual interneurons and principal cells revealed three primary firing behaviors of the active cells: 36% of O-LM interneurons and 60% of pyramidal cells fired action potentials at high frequencies during the HFO. R-LM interneurons were biphasic in that they fired at high frequency at the beginning of the HFO but stopped firing before its end. When considering only the highest frequency component of the oscillations most pyramidal cells fired on the rising phase of the oscillation. These data provide evidence for functional distinction during HFOs within otherwise homogeneous groups of O-LM interneurons and pyramidal cells.
Evidence for Age-Dependent Education-Related Differences in Men and Women with First-Ever Stroke
Authors: Löfmark Ulrika , Hammarström Anne
Published: April 2007

Several studies have shown a relationship between low socioeconomic status, age and stroke mortality. However, there is lack of similar studies in relation to stroke incidence. All cases of first-ever stroke occurring in a population aged 35–85 years from the city of Umeå were collected from hospital-based registers during a 2-year study period (2000–2002), from death certificates and also from nursing homes during a 6-month period. The WHO definition of stroke was used. Register data served to analyze educational level. A total of 457 first-ever strokes (244 women and 213 men) were registered, corresponding to an overall annual incidence rate of first-ever stroke of 413.4 per 100,000. The incidence of first-ever stroke was significantly higher among low-educated compared to high-educated men and women. The highest stroke incidence was found among low-educated women aged 75–85 years. The educational-related differences in stroke incidence persisted in the oldest age group (75–85 years), also after controlling for sex and age. This is one of the first studies that analyzes first-ever stroke incidence also among elderly men and women (75–85 years) in relation to socioeconomic status. More community-based studies are needed in order to confirm the results.
The Study of Patterns Is Profound
Authors: Reagan Trudy Myrrh
Published: May 2007

The author has studied natural patterns both by drawing them and by finding analogs for them in crafts materials and processes, including batik, shibori, wrinkled paper painting, paper marbling, moiré, painting and engraving on Plexiglas. She discusses the generation of patterns in nature and how scientists' understanding of them has expanded during the period of her own explorations. She recommends this study for enhancing one's connection to the natural world and the cosmos. The author also explains how she has found patterns useful as metaphors for philosophical ideas.
The Perception of Nonmaterial Objects and Events
Authors: Ittelson William H.
Published: May 2007

All animals receive light and sound from the surrounding world and use this input to provide information about the material properties of that world. Humans, in addition, are able to utilize information in light and sound that has nothing to do with its material source but is about objects and events that are not materially present and may have no material existence at all. The author argues that this perceptual capacity is a necessary condition for the development of the arts, the humanities, science and all that is considered uniquely human.
Should Consumer Citizens Escape the Market?
Authors: Arnould Eric J.
Published: April 2007

This article uses a sociological perspective to question the validity of critiques of consumer culture. First, the author examines the debate over whether consumers possess true freedom of action, reviewing problems critics find in the notion of “agency.” Second, the author proposes that anticonsumption ideology is class-based, anachronistic, and sometimes confuses consumption with materiality. Third, the author examines what it may mean to “escape” from consumerism, using an example from a marginalized African community deprived of the means of consumption. The notions of “the market” and “marketing” are reviewed as institutions and practices with ancient roots that assume varying forms in different cultural contexts rather than as sources of pathology. Finally, the author suggests that marketing and consumerism may be enlisted for the practice of citizenship and engagement in progressive political action.
Buying into Downtown Revival: The Centrality of Retail to Postwar Urban Renewal in American Cities
Authors: Cohen Lizabeth
Published: April 2007

This article argues that the link between consumption and civic engagement has an important local, not just national, history and that retailers' involvement in the downtown urban renewal of American cities in the post-WWII era offers a particularly fruitful avenue of investigation. The article focuses on New Haven, Connecticut, and Boston, Massachusetts, where Edward J. Logue served as development chief from 1954 to 1967. His record over these fourteen years, when he was a national leader in federally funded urban renewal, offers a revealing case of how consumption and civic culture intersected at the local level. Although the power given to retailers varied starkly in the redevelopment of these two cities, in both cases department stores were deemed essential to the viability of the central business district. That priority ultimately limited the success of downtown revitalization, given the department store sector's growing suburban orientation and steady economic concentration from the 1960s on.
The Politics of Consumption/The Consumption of Politics
Authors: Shah Dhavan V. , McLeod Douglas M. , Friedland Lewis , Nelson Michelle R.
Published: April 2007

As consumer culture pervades the social life of citizens in America and Europe, it becomes increasingly important to clarify the relationship between consumption and citizenship. With this in mind, faculty and students at the University of Wisconsin organized a conference titled “The Politics of Consumption/The Consumption of Politics.” Held in October 2006, the meeting provided a forum for leading scholars to discuss the interplay of markets, media, politics, and the citizen-consumer. Revised and expanded versions of the papers they presented are collected in this volume with the goal of advancing this emerging area of inquiry. It is our hope that the essays and research papers we have collected here help define the next wave of theory building and research inquiry on the intersections of consumer culture, civic culture, and mass culture.
Themed article: Doing research on emotion and virtual work: A compass to assist orientation
Authors: Sieben Barbara
Published: May 2007

The aim of this article is to offer a structuring device for research on emotion and virtual work. I refer to this structuring device as a compass. It embraces the different perspectives organizational researchers may adopt to address emotion and virtuality and illustrates the questions and findings that arise out of these perspectives. As such, the compass is a guide to the possibilities and limits of research on emotion, virtual work, and their interplay, and a tool for developing and combining research questions from multiple perspectives.
Themed article: Emotion online: Experiences of teaching in a virtual learning environment
Authors: Gilmore Sarah , Warren Samantha
Published: May 2007

Using qualitative data drawn from one specific instance of workplace virtuality and emotion — the experience of delivering online seminars using `chat-rooms' — we explore how emotion was productively transformed through the use of virtuality in a teaching and learning setting, a workplace environment for thousands of academics. Using social constructivist and psychoanalytical theories of emotion, we discuss three emotional categories grounded in these data: 1) intimacy; 2) play; and 3) pride/shame, which were experienced in response to a range of student behaviours seemingly encouraged by the online seminar setting. We argue that the characteristics of virtuality as a medium of communication — namely the absence of the body, diminution of paralingual cues and removal of physical socio-spatial indicators–force a renegotiation of the 'feeling rules' that govern traditional classroom settings which in turn contributes to a more emotionally suffused teaching experience for online tutors. Given that the emotional experience of being an online teacher is notably under-theorized in the andragogic literature, our focus in this article is on the emotional implications of virtual teaching rather than virtual learning. We conclude by stating the need for further research into virtuality, emotion and teaching given the clear andragogical implications we discuss, the predicted rise in the use of virtual technologies as educational tools and the impact this may have on the emotional working lives of the academics who are called upon to mobilize them.
Correspondence: Corporate communications and its receptions
Authors: Christensen Lars Thøger , Cornelissen Joep , Morsing Mette
Published: May 2007

This article critiques the conceptualization of corporate communications in a recent study by Llewellyn and Harrison. We argue that their analysis of the reception of corporate messages is one-sided and partial and fails to advance a comprehensive understanding of corporate communications and its role in contemporary organizations. Llewellyn and Harrison suggest that blue-collar employees share a class-based anti-management attitude which together with their `folk' linguistic competences leads them to read corporate communications texts in a strictly cynical way that reinforces a class distinction between `managers' and (blue-collar) `employees'. In the hope of advancing a more sophisticated view on corporate communications, we challenge Llewellyn and Harrison's position by questioning the methods and arguments brought forth in their analysis.
Achievement Emotions in Germany and China
Authors: Frenzel Anne C. , Thrash Todd M. , Pekrun Reinhard , Goetz Thomas
Published: April 2007

The aim of this study was to establish the construct comparability and cross-cultural utility of the German and Chinese versions of the Academic Emotions Questionnaire—Mathematics (AEQ-M). Based on data from 312 German and 579 Chinese eighth-grade students, mean and covariance structures analysis revealed that the AEQ-M shows a high degree of measurement invariance across cultures. In addition, the emotions assessed by the AEQ-M showed similar patterns of relationships with self-reports of achievement, parental achievement expectations, and attributions of success and failure across the German and Chinese samples. Confirming earlier findings, Chinese students were found to experience higher levels of anxiety in mathematics. They were also found to experience more enjoyment, pride, and shame, and less anger, than German students. This research supports the use of the AEQ-M in cross-cultural research and provides data about a broader range of achievement emotions than has been investigated previously.
Prospects for the UK Economy
Authors: Barrell Ray , Kirby Simon
Published: April 2007

GDP growth in 2006 is estimated to have been 2.8 per cent per annum. This rate of growth is above our estimates of the trend rate of growth in the UK. On a quarterly basis the latest estimates suggest that growth above the trend rate occurred in the first half of 2006, with both quarters' growth rates at 0.8 per cent (see figure 1). The second half of the year saw quarterly growth rates at around the trend rate of 0.6 to 0.7 per cent. NIESR's estimate of monthly GDP implied that quarterly growth in the first quarter of this year was somewhat lower at 0.5 per cent because of a weak January. After this poor quarterly performance we expect an increase in economic growth due to household and government demand. Overall, this suggests a downward revision to our January forecast of 0.1 percentage points, although this is of little economic importance. We continue to expect the economy to moderate over the next three years. Our forecast is for GDP to grow by 2.7 per cent per annum this year, slowing to 2.6 and 2.4 per cent per annum in 2008 and 2009 respectively.
Further Evidence That Psychological Reactance Can Be Modeled as a Combination of Anger and Negative Cognitions
Authors: Quick Brian L. , Stephenson Michael T.
Published: May 2007

The primary objective of this investigation was to validate the recent operationalization of state reactance as a latent construct comprised of both affective and cognitive components. In addition to testing the operationalization of reactance, the authors tested the conceptual coherence of this construct by examining its association with threat-to-choice perceptions and ad persuasiveness of condom ads. Across seven condom television ads, the authors found evidence in support of treating reactance as a latent variable comprised of negative cognitions and state anger. An invariance test demonstrated that both of these variables loaded on reactance equivalently across all seven ads. In addition, results indicate that threat-to-choice perceptions are positively associated with reactance, thus providing conceptual consistency of this operationalization with Brehm's explication of reactance. Furthermore, the authors found evidence suggesting a negative association between ad persuasiveness with reactance and threat-to-choice perceptions.
When Available Resources Become Negative Resources
Authors: Fox Julia R. , Park Byungho , Lang Annie
Published: May 2007

This study uses signal detection measures and secondary task reaction times (STRTs) to examine the effects of structural complexity and information density on processing television messages. Of particular interest are results pertaining to cognitive overload experienced while processing structurally complex and informationally dense messages. When required resources exceed available resources—that is, when a state of cognitive overload is reached—both memory sensitivity and criterion bias drop dramatically while STRTs get faster. The results provide support for the contention that secondary task reaction times are often very fast during highly complex messages because the system is overloaded and therefore resources are shifted from the primary task to the secondary task. Also of interest, the liberal shift in criterion bias starts before overload has occurred, suggesting that criterion bias may be tracking available resources.
Tell Me Something I Don't Know
Authors: Van Swol Lyn M. , Ludutsky Cara L.
Published: May 2007

This article examined strategic requests for information in a group structured as a judge advisor system (JAS) with one group member designated as the decision maker and the other two members as advisors. The decision maker could solicit advice from the two advisors. One advisor's advice contained only information shared in common with the decision maker, and the other's advice contained half unshared information. The authors proposed an alternative to research on information sampling and mutual enhancement and predicted that the decision maker would prefer information from the advisor with more unshared information. The decision maker solicited more information from the advisor with more unshared information and rated this advisor's information as more important and influential than the advisor with only shared information.
Effects of Geographic Distribution on Dominance Perceptions in Computer-Mediated Groups
Authors: Peña Jorge , Walther Joseph B. , Hancock Jeffrey T.
Published: May 2007

This study examined how the geographic distribution of group members affected dominance perceptions in a field experiment involving 65 computer-mediated groups communicating over a 2-week period. Dominance perceptions were more extreme when group members did not share a geographic location (distributed groups) than when they did (collocated groups). Collocated groups showed greater convergence between self and partner dominance perceptions than distributed groups, suggesting more symmetrical perceptions. More symmetrical groups exhibited more attraction and cohesion than less symmetrical groups. These results lend some support to recent models of computer-mediated communication that take into consideration the social psychological processes involved in distributed work and run counter to studies suggesting status equalization in mediated group collaboration.
Emotion-Work Performance Among Dual-Earner Couples
Authors: Minnotte Krista Lynn , Pedersen Stevens Daphne , Minnotte Michael C. , Kiger Gary
Published: May 2007

This study compares four theories of domestic labor in their ability to predict relative emotion-work performance among dual-earner couples. Specifically, the authors investigate the effects of gender ideology, time availability, relative resources, and crossover factors on the dependent variable of relative emotion-work performance using seemingly unrelated regression. The analysis is performed on data from a random sample ( N = 156) of dual-earner couples in northern Utah. Results suggest that for men, partner's work-to-family spillover is negatively related to relative emotion work performance and men with more traditional gender ideologies report performing more emotion work relative to their partners. For both men and women, relative housework performance is positively related to relative emotion-work performance. The findings from the study suggest that new theories are needed to adequately predict this particular form of domestic labor.
“So You Can See How the Other Half Lives”
Authors: Smith Maureen Margaret , Beal Becky
Published: May 2007

MTV's popular television series “Cribs” displays the homes of famous athletes and entertainers. “Cribs” presents these male athletes and their households as exemplars of “making it.” This article examines the representation of male athletes and how various types of “successful” masculinity are conflated with race and class. We found two dominant models of successful masculinity, James Bond and Cool Pose. “Cribs” clearly demarcates between Black and White athletes, which essentializes race. Simultaneously, “Cribs” presents race as performative styles providing the audience with opportunities to consume “the other.” We argue that this paradoxical dynamic is utilized to sell the cool lifestyle and has multiple implications, including depoliticizing race, class, and gender.
Evaluating Mission Drift in Microfinance
Authors: Hishigsuren Gaamaa
Published: May 2007

The article contributes to a better understanding of implications of scaling up on the social mission of microfinance programs. It proposes a methodology to measure the extent, if any, to which a microfinance program with a poverty alleviation mission drifts away from its mission during rapid scaling up and presents findings from a field research using the proposed methodology at Activists for Social Alternatives (ASA), a microfinance organization that serves poor women in rural India. The findings indicate that mission drift is not a result of deliberate decisions by the management or board but rather is a result of the challenges posed by the scaling-up process. At times, changing trends in social outcomes were not obvious, and management was not aware of the changes indicated by the proposed measures of social performance.
Measuring the Propensity to Drink and Drive
Authors: Bertelli Anthony M. , Richardson Lilliard E.
Published: May 2007

Laws such as .08 blood alcohol content, open container, and license revocation provide a policy framework for reducing drinking and driving. Drinking and driving behavior is difficult to assess; unlike property and violent crimes, where incidence statistics can approximate behavior, most drink-driving trips go undetected. The authors develop a novel measure of drink-driving propensity by estimating an item response model using national survey data. The authors illustrate their measures in the aggregate and as they relate to law enforcement efforts in the American states.
Estimating the Costs of Preventive Interventions
Authors: Foster E. Michael , Porter Michele M. , Ayers Tim S. , Kaplan Debra L. , Sandler Irwin
Published: May 2007

The goal of this article is to improve the practice and reporting of cost estimates of prevention programs. It reviews the steps in estimating the costs of an intervention and the principles that should guide estimation. The authors then review prior efforts to estimate intervention costs using a sample of well-known but diverse studies. Finally, the authors illustrate the principles with an example, the Family Bereavement Program. They conclude that example by discussing whether and how the costs of the intervention might differ when implemented in a real-world setting.
Paediatric low-vision assessment and management in a specialist clinic in the UK
Authors: Lennon Julie , Harper Robert , Biswas Sus , Lloyd Chris
Published: May 2007

This article presents a survey of the demographical, educational and visual functional characteristics of children attending a specialist paediatric low-vision assessment clinic at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital. Comprehensive data were collected retrospectively from children attending the paediatric lowvision clinic between January 2003 and August 2004 (n = 64). Data collected included clinical and demographic details and educational status. Use was made of a pre-clinic questionnaire to ascertain information regarding schooling and level of support, and child, parental or specialist teacher concerns. Visual functions assessed included distance logMAR acuity, near acuity, contrast sensitivity, colour vision and when feasible, visual fields. Following refraction, children were evaluated for spectacles and low-vision aids. A key finding to emerge from this study is that children attending the clinic present with a range of visual disorders and levels of visual function. The most common cause of visual impairment was albinism (20%) followed by rod cone dystrophy (10%). It is concluded that a comprehensive assessment of visual function should, when reported to other professionals, permit more relevant adaptations to be incorporated into the educational strategies adopted for the child.
A study of the effect of letter spacing on the reading speed of young readers with low vision
Authors: McLeish Eve
Published: May 2007

The aims of this study were two-fold: firstly, to establish a method of applying consistent letter spacing to documents using MS Word, and secondly, to investigate the effect of increased letter spacing on the reading speeds of readers with low vision. Tests on 14 readers with low vision showed that increased letter spacing benefited their reading speed and also reduced the critical print size of the majority of subjects tested. These findings could have a significant impact on the format of modified large print material used by low-vision readers in mainstream schools and lead to more inclusive practise in the classroom. Additionally, a simple to follow table has been produced to quantify the effect of increased letter spacing in MS Word. Although MS Word is almost universally used in mainstream schools to modify teaching resources, for low-vision readers, the method of applying letter spacing and its effect are not clear.
The acquisition of pronominal case-marking by Japanese learners of English
Authors: Suda Koji , Wakabayashi Shigenori
Published: May 2007

Eighty-one seventh- and eighth-grade students (age 12—14) learning English in Japanese classrooms were tested on their knowledge of English case-marked pronouns in sentences like He likes her, * He likes she and * Him likes her. The aim of the study was to evaluate the predictions of three theories of second language (L2) development against the results obtained. Given the case-marking properties of Japanese, the Full Transfer/Full Access model of Schwartz (1998) and Schwartz and Sprouse (1994; 1996; 2000), the Minimal Trees model of Vainikka and Young-Scholten (1994; 1996a; 1996b; 1998) and the Lexical Learning/Lexical Transfer model of Wakabayashi (1997; 2002) make different predictions about the kinds of patterns of case-marked pronouns that will be found in the second language English of early learners with Japanese first language (L1). It is argued that the results are consistent with the predictions of the Lexical Learning/Lexical Transfer model, but with neither Full Transfer/Full Access nor Minimal Trees.
Kidnapping in Taiwan
Authors: Yang Shu-Lung , Wu Bohsiu , Huang Shih-Long
Published: May 2007

Kidnapping had been rare in Taiwan until recently. Several high-profile cases in the late 1990s, victimizing both Taiwanese citizens and foreigners, startled the island state. This study is the first systematic examination of the social dynamics involved in kidnapping. Data came from court cases, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews from incarcerated inmates. Results showed that kidnappers' financial crises and friendships with ringleaders were two primary motives. Most kidnapping cases involved a small number of offenders who form an ad hoc kidnapping group. Victims were not randomly chosen and share a geographic tie with the offenders. The process of kidnapping is idiosyncratic in nature, as most kidnappers improvised their plans. The negotiation phase in kidnapping is done hastily, and the amount of ransom is often a compromised result of offenders' needs, victim's family's financial status, timing, and the offenders' perception of risks. Ways to prevent kidnapping are also discussed in this article.
In-Prison Treatment for Sexual Offenders in Taiwan
Authors: Lung For-Wey , Chou Frank Huang-Chih , Lu Yi-Ching , Wen Jung-Kwang , Yen Yung-Chieh , Kao Chien-Ya
Published: May 2007

The present study was designed to investigate the current status of mandated treatment in prison for sexual offenders in Taiwan. The information-gathering methods were composed of two parts: questionnaires and interviews. The results showed the difficulties of mandated treatment in prison, including poor client adherence, the lack of consistent disciplines for the therapists, a standardized algorithm, and explicit laws and rules, the safety concerns of the therapists, and a shortage of staff. The development of mandated treatment in prison of sexual offenders in Taiwan is still in its early stage, and the treatment models have not yet been integrated. A cooperative and collaborative center for the mandated treatment in prison of sexual offenders and an integrated rule and treatment model should be set up in the future.
Expanding the Definition of Provocative Dress
Authors: Lynch Annette
Published: April 2007

A Foucauldian feminist theoretical perspective was selected to examine female flashing behavior and male audience response within the microenvironment of a college homecoming celebration. Data were collected using ethnographic fieldwork techniques in the midst of sometimes near-riot conditions in a blocked-off street in the bar district adjoining the campus. Additional qualitative research methods included participant observation, interviews with male and female participants and observers, analysis of police videotapes, and interviews with police officers. Interpretive results supported the expanding of Kennedy's definition of provocative dress to include body-revealing behaviors when practiced within social contexts. Analysis further indicated that flashing within this microenvironment served to reinforce patterns of hegemonic male sexuality focused on sexual objectification of women rather than serving to challenge male-centered sexuality through an expression of female sexual agency.
Relationships Among Plasma Zinc, Plasma Prolactin, Milk Transfer, and Milk Zinc in Lactating Women
Authors: O'Brien Caitlin E. , Krebs Nancy F. , Westcott Jamie L. , Fang Dong
Published: May 2007

The objective was to analyze interrelationships among plasma zinc (PZ), plasma prolactin (PRL), milk transfer, and milk zinc from a longitudinal study of lactating women with a range of zinc intakes. Sixteen of 26 women received a 15 mg/d zinc supplement, resulting in a significant increase in total zinc intake compared with nonsupplemented participants ( P < .001). No significant differences in key variables were observed between the zinc-supplemented and non—zinc-supplemented women; data were thus combined. An inverse trend between PRL and PZ was observed at 0.5 ( r = −.36, P = .08) and 7 months ( r = −.38, P = .06). Correlations between PRL at 0.5 months and at 3, 5, and 7 months were significant ( r > .50, P < .01). PRL concentrations and milk transfer were positively correlated at 5 ( r = .67, P < .001) and 7 months ( r = .53, P < .01), consistent with PRL role in lactation maintenance. Studies including zinc-deficient lactating women are required to clarify the interrelationships between zinc status and PRL secretion. J Hum Lact. 23(2): 179-183.
Does Exclusive Breastfeeding Increase After Hospital Discharge? A Greek Study
Authors: Bakoula Chryssa , Nicolaidou Polyxeni , Veltsista Alexandra , Prezerakou Anargyroula , Moustaki Maria , Kavadias George , Lazaris Demetrios , Fretzayas Andreas , Krikos Xenofon , Karpathios Themistoklis , Matsaniotis Nikolaos
Published: May 2007

To monitor the rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Greek maternity wards and to investigate possible changes in infant-feeding practices during the first month after hospital discharge, the authors questioned 4310 Greek mothers from 7 hospitals on the fourth day postpartum. Odds ratios were calculated to estimate the effects of health system, demographic, psychosocial, and environmental factors. Any breastfeeding and full breastfeeding initiation rates were 85% and 23%, respectively. One month postpartum, the corresponding rates of any and exclusive breastfeeding were 79% and 61%, respectively. Mothers of infants who lacked continuous rooming-in while in the maternity ward (OR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.27-3.40) and with previous experience of breastfeeding (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.19-1.79) were more likely to reestablish exclusive breastfeeding at home despite the use of supplementation in the maternity ward. It seems women are capable of overcoming supplementation in hospital and can revert to exclusive breastfeeding at home. J Hum Lact. 23(2):165-173.
Breastfeeding Duration Rates and Factors Affecting Continued Breastfeeding Among Infants Born at an Inner-City US Baby-Friendly Hospital
Authors: Merewood Anne , Patel Birva , Newton Kimberly Niles , MacAuley Lindsay P. , Chamberlain Laura Beth , Francisco Patricia , Mehta Supriya D.
Published: May 2007

The effects of Baby-Friendly status on breastfeeding duration in the United States have not been published. The objectives of this study were to obtain breastfeeding rates at 6 months among babies born in a US Baby-Friendly hospital and to assess factors associated with continued breastfeeding at 6 months. The authors randomly selected 350 medical records of infants born in 2003 at Baby-Friendly Boston Medical Center. Of 336 eligible infants, 248 (74%) attended the 6-month well-child visit and 37.1% (92/248) were breastfeeding at 6 months. In multivariate logistic regression, the likelihood of breastfeeding at 6 months was decreased by presence of a feeding problem in the hospital (AOR 0.27; 95% CI 0.07-0.99), whereas the likelihood of breastfeeding at 6 months increased with maternal age (AOR 1.05; 95% CI 1.00-1.10) and for mothers born in Africa (AOR 4.29; 95% CI 1.36-13.5) or of unrecorded birthplace (AOR 3.29; 95% CI 1.38-7.85). Breastfeeding duration is traditionally poor in low-income, black populations in the United States. Among a predominantly low-income and black population giving birth at a US Baby-Friendly hospital, breastfeeding rates at 6 months were comparable to the overall US population. J Hum Lact. 23(2):157-164.
Open-Ended Interviews, Power, and Emotional Labor
Authors: Hoffmann Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2007

This article investigates the power dynamics of the interview process and the connected emotional labor, drawing on examples from a recent study on workplace grievances in which most data collection was through open-ended interviews. By exploring the shifts of power and the emotional labor demands in the qualitative, open-ended interview, this article emphasizes that power shifts and emotions within the interview are, themselves, important data. A greater awareness of shifts in interviewer and interviewee power and emotional labor in the interview context helps the researcher better understand the nuances of the data, provides the researcher with more information about the interviewee and the research topic, and facilitates greater insights into the interview process, the participants, and the nature of the topics discussed.
Psychological Contracts
Authors: Ellis Jennifer Butler
Published: April 2007

The theory of psychological contracting provides a framework to explore occupational work group differences in the promises and violations employees perceive. Prior research suggests that work status may affect perceived promises and violations, but the perception will depend on the promise issue. To test previous qualitative findings using quantitative methods, 163 full-time employees from approximately 25 organizations completed a survey assessing perceived quality communication and work-life promises and violations. As predicted, data reveal a significant interaction suggesting that white-collar employees perceive quality communication promises to a greater extent than blue-collar employees, but there is no significant difference in perception about work-life promises. A similar interaction pattern emerges for perceptions of promise fulfillment; however, contrary to what was predicted, participants report perceptions of promise overfulfillment rather than negative violations.
Adolescent Adherence to Oral Therapy for Leukemia: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Malbasa Tara , Kodish Eric , Santacroce Sheila Judge
Published: May 2007

This secondary qualitative analysis of extant focus group data was performed to develop an understanding of suboptimal adherence to 6-mercaptopurine therapy in adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Six participants, aged 16 to 23 years at the time of data collection, were interviewed about their adherence to oral maintenance chemotherapy during their treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The primary aim of the study was to understand the role of adolescent development in adolescents' perception of adherence to therapy. The secondary aim was to understand how factors other than development, including the features of the disease such as its chronic nature and family involvement, can affect treatment adherence to 6-mercaptopurine. Four broad themes emerged as critical elements in adolescent adherence to oral maintenance therapy: a desire for normalcy, egocentrism, concrete thinking, and parental involvement. Incorporation of these themes into clinical practice with adolescents may help increase adherence and improve clinical outcomes.
Family Resiliency During Childhood Cancer: The Father's Perspective
Authors: Brody Amanda C. , Simmons Leigh Ann
Published: May 2007

Most studies of childhood cancer have focused on mothers, but few studies have examined the views of fathers on the effects of their child's cancer diagnosis and treatment on the family. The purpose of this study was to explore the resources that help fathers adapt to life after their child's diagnosis using the resiliency model of family stress, adjustment, and adaptation as a framework. Eight fathers whose children had received treatment in a university pediatric oncology clinic in the prior 12 months were interviewed in depth. Data were coded thematically using NVivo. Results indicated that support from extended family, the church, and health care professionals was necessary for fathers to remain positive during their child's illness; spousal and parent-child relationships strengthened; and changes in family life varied based on the composition of the household. Further studies are warranted to better understand how fathers cope, so that pediatric oncology nurses and other health care professionals can provide holistic care that addresses the unique needs of all family members.
Comparing Relaxation Training and Cognitive-Behavioral Group Therapy for Women With Breast Cancer
Authors: Cohen Miri , Fried Georgeta
Published: April 2007

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of cognitive-behavior (CB) group intervention versus relaxation and guided imagery (RGI) group training. Method: A total of 114 early-stage breast cancer patients were randomly assigned to CB, RGI, or control groups, and instruments were completed at pre- and postintervention and 4 months later. Results: Psychological distress was significantly reduced in both intervention groups compared to the control group. The RGI group was more effective in reducing levels of fatigue and sleep difficulties, whereas the CB group was more effective in reducing external health locus of control. Internal health locus of control did not significantly change. Adherence to self-practice at home was significantly associated with reduction in psychological and physical symptoms. Conclusions: The study supports the use of both CB and RGI models for reducing psychological distress in breast cancer patients. RGI showed advantages in reducing fatigue and improving sleep quality, whereas CB better reduced external health locus of control perceptions.
Making a Difference in Critical Care Nursing Practice
Authors: Hawley M. Patricia , Jensen Louise
Published: May 2007

This hermeneutic phenomenological inquiry reveals the meaning in critical care nurses' lived experiences of making a difference in practice with a view to deepening our understanding of nursing in pursuing nursing excellence. It serves to show how critical care nurses make a difference and what difference they make to critically ill patients in a manner that more fully captures nursing practice as enacted in the critical care setting. The authors subjected transcripts of the conversations with 16 critical care nurse participants to a thematic analysis and reflective process from which the following themes emerged: making the inhumane humane, making the unbearable bearable, making the life threatening life sustaining, and making the unlivable livable. Guided by the lifeworld existentials, these themes became the threads around which an interpretive—descriptive text was written. The authors wove other relevant sources of lived-experience material into the evolving text to assist with the explication of meaning.
“I Try to Take Care of It Myself.” How Rural Women Search for Health Information
Authors: Wathen C. Nadine , Harris Roma M.
Published: May 2007

Rural living poses special challenges (and opportunities) for the significant health information intermediary role that women enact. The authors describe interviews with 40 women living in a rural, medically underserved county in south-western Ontario, Canada, who discussed their information-seeking experiences and the strategies used to find information about a chronic health concern or an acute medical problem. The women's stories reveal that they define health very broadly and that their information seeking is influenced by contextual factors, such as rural living and gender roles, that interplay with their self-reliance, health literacy, and the availability and willingness of others in professional and non-professional roles to give support within relationships of care. The authors discuss themes emerging from the interviews in connection with the apparent mismatch between women's lived realities and the policy assumptions supporting the development of e-health strategies for providing health information to people living in rural and remote communities.