bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presynaptic Inhibition Selectively Weakens Peptidergic Cotransmission in a Small Motor System
Authors: DeLong Nicholas D. , Beenhakker Mark P. , Nusbaum Michael P.
Published: October 2009

The presence and influence of neurons containing multiple neurotransmitters is well established, including the ability of coreleased transmitters to influence the same or different postsynaptic targets. Little is known, however, regarding whether presynaptic regulation of multitransmitter neurons influences all transmission from these neurons. Using the identified neurons and motor networks in the crab stomatogastric ganglion, we document the ability of presynaptic inhibition to selectively inhibit peptidergic cotransmission. Specifically, we determine that the gastropyloric receptor (GPR) proprioceptor neuron uses presynaptic inhibition to selectively regulate peptidergic cotransmission from the axon terminals of MCN1, a projection neuron that drives the biphasic (retraction, protraction) gastric mill (chewing) rhythm. MCN1 drives this rhythm via fast GABAergic excitation of the retraction neuron Int1 and slow peptidergic excitation of the lateral gastric (LG) protraction neuron. We first demonstrate that GPR inhibition of the MCN1 axon terminals is serotonergic and then establish that this serotonergic inhibition weakens MCN1 peptidergic excitation of LG without altering MCN1 GABAergic excitation of Int1. At the circuit level, we show that this selective regulation of MCN1 peptidergic cotransmission is necessary for the normal GPR regulation of the gastric mill rhythm. This is the first demonstration, at the level of individual identified neurons, that a presynaptic input can selectively regulate a subset of coreleased transmitters. This selective regulation changes the balance of cotransmitter actions by the target multitransmitter neuron, thereby enabling this neuron to have state-dependent actions on its target network. This finding reveals additional flexibility afforded by the ability of neurons to corelease multiple neurotransmitters.
Mappings on Fuzzy Soft Classes
Authors: Kharal Athar , Ahmad B.
Published: October 2009

We define the concept of a mapping on classes of fuzzy soft sets and study the properties of fuzzy soft images and fuzzy soft inverse images of fuzzy soft sets, and support them with examples and counterexamples.
The Methods of Hilbert Spaces and Structure of the Fixed-Point Set of Lipschitzian Mapping
Authors: Górnicki Jarosław
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this paper is to prove, by asymptotic center techniques and the methods of Hilbert spaces, the following theorem. Let "Equation missing" be a Hilbert space, let "Equation missing" be a nonempty bounded closed convex subset of "Equation missing" and let "Equation missing" be a strongly ergodic matrix. If "Equation missing" is a lipschitzian mapping such that "Equation missing", then the set of fixed points "Equation missing" is a retract of "Equation missing". This result extends and improves the corresponding results of [7, Corollary 9] and [8, Corollary 1].
Performance of Narrowband Signal Detection under Correlated Rayleigh Fading Based on Synthetic Array
Authors: Broumandan Ali , Nielsen John , Lachapelle Gérard
Published: October 2009

The performance of a single moving antenna receiver in detecting a narrowband signal under correlated Rayleigh fading is considered. The spatial motion of the antenna during signal capture provides a realization of a synthetic antenna array. As shown, there is a net processing gain obtained by using a synthetic antenna array compared to the equivalent static antenna in Rayleigh fading environments subject to constant processing time. The performance analysis is based on average Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) metrics for design parameters of probability of detection(Pd)and probability of false alarm(Pfa). An optimum detector based on Estimator-Correlator (EC) is developed, and its performance is compared with that of suboptimal Equal-Gain (EG) combiner in different channel correlation scenarios. It is shown that in moderate channel correlation scenarios the detection performance of EC and EG is identical. The sensitivity of the proposed method to knowledge of motion parameters is also investigated. An extensive set of measurements based on CDMA-2000 pilot signals using the static antenna and synthetic array are used to experimentally verify these theoretical findings.
Comparability of Microarray Data between Amplified and Non Amplified RNA in Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Croner Roland S. , Lausen Berthold , Schellerer Vera , Zeittraeger Isabel , Wein Axel , Schildberg Claus , Papadopoulos Thomas , Dimmler Arno , Hahn Eckhart G. , Hohenberger Werner , Brueckl Wolfgang M.
Published: October 2009

Microarray analysis reaches increasing popularity during the investigation of prognostic gene clusters in oncology. The standardisation of technical procedures will be essential to compare various datasets produced by different research groups. In several projects the amount of available tissue is limited. In such cases the preamplification of RNA might be necessary prior to microarray hybridisation. To evaluate the comparability of microarray results generated either by amplified or non amplified RNA we isolated RNA from colorectal cancer samples (stage UICC IV) following tumour tissue enrichment by macroscopic manual dissection (CMD). One part of the RNA was directly labelled and hybridised to GeneChips (HG‐U133A, Affymetrix), the other part of the RNA was amplified according to the “Eberwine” protocol and was then hybridised to the microarrays. During unsupervised hierarchical clustering the samples were divided in groups regarding the RNA pre‐treatment and 5.726 differentially expressed genes were identified. Using independent microarray data of 31 amplified vs. 24 non amplified RNA samples from colon carcinomas (stage UICC III) in a set of 50 predictive genes we validated the amplification bias. In conclusion microarray data resulting from different pre‐processing regarding RNA pre‐amplification can not be compared within one analysis.
Characterization of the GeneBmEm4, a Homologue ofDrosophila E(spl)m4, from the Silkworm,Bombyx mori
Authors: Zeng Fenghui , Xie Hongxia , Nie Zuoming , Chen Jian , Lv Zhengbing , Chen Jianqing , Wang Dan , Liu Lili , Yu Wei , Sheng Qing , Wu Xiangfu , Zhang Yaozhou
Published: October 2009

TheDrosophila E(spl)m4gene contains some highly conserved motifs (such as the Brd box, GY box, K box, and CAAC motif) in its3′untranslated region (3′UTR). It was shown to be a microRNA target gene inDrosophilaand to play an important role in the regulation of neurogenesis. We identified a homologue of theE(spl)m4gene fromBombyx moricalledBmEm4and examined the expression patterns of BmEm4 mRNA and protein. There was a lack of correlation in the expression of the mRNA and protein between the different developmental stages, which raises the possibility of posttranscriptional regulation of the BmEm4 mRNA. Consistent with this idea is the finding that the3′UTR contains two putative binding sites for microRNAs. Moreover, given that the expression is the highest in the larval head, as confirmed by immunohistochemistry, we propose thatBmEm4may also be involved in the regulation of neurogenesis. Immunostaining indicated that BmEm4 is located primarily in the cytoplasm.
Hegel's Voice: Vibration and Violence
Authors: Hanly Peter
Published: October 2009

This essay is a consideration of Hegel's account of the voice. Responding, in the first instance, to Derrida's discussion of what he terms Hegel's 'semiology,' the article attempts to map out complexities in Hegel's account of voice that tend to resist absorption into the trajectory that Derrida has outlined. Hegel's discussion of music in the Aesthetics will be the focus, and an attempt is made to link the emergence of the musical voice to the fundamental determinations of time and of sound in the Philosophy of Nature. Finally, the essay will connect Hegel's understanding of music with the primordial appearance of voice in the anthropology of the Philosophy of Spirit.
Efficient Adaptive Error Parameterizations for Square Root or Ensemble Kalman Filters: Application to the Control of Ocean Mesoscale Signals
Authors: Brankart Jean-Michel , Cosme Emmanuel , Testut Charles-Emmanuel , Brasseur Pierre , Verron Jacques
Published: October 2009

In Kalman filter applications, an adaptive parameterization of the error statistics is often necessary to avoid filter divergence, and prevent error estimates from becoming grossly inconsistent with the real error. With the classic formulation of the Kalman filter observational update, optimal estimates of general adaptive parameters can only be obtained at a numerical cost that is several times larger than the cost of the state observational update. In this paper, it is shown that there exists a few types of important parameters for which optimal estimates can be computed at a negligible numerical cost, as soon as the computation is performed using a transformed algorithm that works in the reduced control space defined by the square root or ensemble representation of the forecast error covariance matrix. The set of parameters that can be efficiently controlled includes scaling factors for the forecast error covariance matrix, scaling factors for the observation error covariance matrix, or even a scaling factor for the observation error correlation length scale.

As an application, the resulting adaptive filter is used to estimate the time evolution of ocean mesoscale signals using observations of the ocean dynamic topography. To check the behavior of the adaptive mechanism, this is done in the context of idealized experiments, in which model error and observation error statistics are known. This ideal framework is particularly appropriate to explore the ill-conditioned situations (inadequate prior assumptions or uncontrollability of the parameters) in which adaptivity can be misleading. Overall, the experiments show that, if used correctly, the efficient optimal adaptive algorithm proposed in this paper introduces useful supplementary degrees of freedom in the estimation problem, and that the direct control of these statistical parameters by the observations increases the robustness of the error estimates and thus the optimality of the resulting Kalman filter.
Relational Authority and Legitimacy in International Relations
Authors: Lake David A.
Published: October 2009

This article develops a theory of relational authority in the most unpromising setting of international relations. Relational authority locates legitimacy in a social contract between a ruler, who provides a social order of value to the ruled, and the ruled, who comply with the ruler’s commands necessary to the production of that order. International politics are nearly universally assumed to be an anarchy devoid of authority. Through the lens of relational authority, however, one sees that relations between states are better described as a rich variety of hierarchies in which dominant states legitimately rule over greater or lesser domains of policy in subordinate states. After contrasting alternative approaches to authority, the article identifies international hierarchies and summarizes a suite of measures that capture variations between the United States and other states. The article then deduces a set of international behaviors that follows from relational authority and demonstrates that (a) the United States is more likely to join international disputes in which its subordinates are involved and (b) subordinates acknowledge the authority of the dominant state by engaging in actions of symbolic obeisance, of which the most costly and salient form is following the United States into war.
A Social Norms Approach to Legitimacy
Authors: Horne Christine
Published: October 2009

Rulers seek to develop legitimacy. Legitimacy is a murky concept, however, and just how rulers might attain it is not well understood. This article explores the implications of conceptualizing legitimacy as a social norm that encourages people to support the ruler. This conceptualization points to the importance of social relations as well as characteristics of the ruler and his or her behavior. These factors together are argued to affect the extent to which norms supporting the ruler are enforced and, in turn, the extent to which people obey and respond to calls to action by the ruler. On this view, a ruler seeking legitimacy should consider (a) the messages he or she sends to citizens about himself or herself and (b) the ways in which his or her policies affect ties between citizens.
Examining Diffusion and Arrest Avoidance Practices Among Johns
Authors: Holt Thomas J. , Blevins Kristie R. , Kuhns Joseph B.
Published: October 2009

Research from the rational choice perspective found that some offenders adapt to law enforcement strategies using various tactics to decrease the risk of detection. Few have considered the effect that this has for criminals who engage in high and low visibility offending, as well as the ways in which arrest avoidance practices are communicated between and among offenders. In this qualitative study, the authors explore these issues using a sample of posts from Web forums for the customers of prostitutes in 10 cities in the United States. This analysis finds that johns openly discussed, shared, and used a variety of methods to decrease the risk of arrest as well as informal threats, such as assault or theft. Implications for law enforcement and rational choice theory are also discussed.
Against Boldness
Authors: Kennedy Mary M.
Published: October 2009

This special issue, “Bold Ideas for a New Era in Teacher Education, Teacher Preparation, and Teacher Practice,” seeks to examine the impact of bold ideas on our field. Authors were asked to propose particular bold ideas that they wanted to examine. I proposed to examine the concept of bold ideas itself. In this article, I challenge the notion that boldness is an inherently good thing. I am not arguing against any of the particular examples of bold ideas offered in this special issue, rather I argue against the pursuit of boldness per se.
Explaining the Gender Disparity in Latino Youth’s Education: Acculturation and Economic Value of Education
Authors: Colón Yarí , Sánchez Bernadette
Published: October 2009

The purpose of the current study was to examine the roles of acculturation, economic value of education, and gender in the academic achievement of Latino adolescents. Participants ( N = 143) were 12th-grade students at an urban public high school. Analyses revealed that a higher economic value of education was related to higher academic achievement. In addition, female participants reported higher levels of economic value of education and had higher grade point averages (GPAs) than male participants. Significant associations were found among aspects of acculturation and academic achievement. Gender differences were also found on acculturation variables. Language preference, an acculturation variable, and economic value of education were found to explain why girls had higher GPAs than boys. This study’s findings shed light on factors that contribute to Latinos’ educational performance. Future directions and implications are discussed.
Sarbanes‐Oxley and the Relentless Pursuit of Government Accountability
Authors: Pautz Michelle C. , Washington C. Patrick
Published: October 2009

In the wake of the corporate financial scandals of the late 1990s, Congress responded by passing the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act of 2002 to improve accountability of both the private sector and of government. Although discussions of accountability and Sarbanes‐Oxley are pertinent to both the public and private sectors, the authors focus on the attempts of the act to encourage government accountability through the creation of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. In a broader context, the passage of Sarbanes‐Oxley fits within public administration’s constant emphasis of reform—particularly those reforms under the rubric of New Public Management that are intended to promote accountability. The authors’ purpose in this article is twofold. First, public administration literature is largely silent on Sarbanes‐Oxley despite its implications for the field. Second, and perhaps more importantly, Sarbanes‐Oxley illustrates the perils of modern government reform efforts. Using Koppell’s five conceptions of accountability, the authors demonstrate how Sarbanes‐Oxley, like many reforms before it, may actually hinder accountability despite its explicit promises to promote it.
King Coal vs. Reclamation
Authors: Davis Charles E. , Duffy Robert J.
Published: October 2009

This research focuses on the regulatory politics of mountaintop removal mining for coal within the Appalachian states of West Virginia and Kentucky. Based on Administrative Presidency concepts suggesting that chief executives seek more control and influence over agency program decisions, this article analyzes President George W. Bush’s efforts to promote the development of coal resources within these states despite statutory constraints posed by federal environmental laws. The analysis demonstrates that President Bush effectively achieved his energy production goals by combining the use of discretionary authority with staff controls, executive orders, and regulatory initiatives to lessen industry compliance costs with environmental regulatory requirements.
National Capital Bureaucracy as a Spatial Phenomenon
Authors: Beer Chris
Published: October 2009

Emphasizing bureaucracy as a communicative phenomenon involving localized knowledge—or metis—this article examines the place of the national capital city of Australia, Canberra, within the geographies of the Australian Public Service. First, drawing on research into knowledge clusters, the city is viewed as a key place of certain forms of communicative interaction. Second, drawing on the concept of metis, Canberra is discussed as a place potentially out of touch with the rest of Australia in terms of this form of knowledge but also as an essential site of accumulating metis essential to career progression within the national bureaucracy.
Blurring Racial and Ethnic Boundaries in Asian American Families: Asian American Family Patterns, 1980-2005
Authors: Hidalgo Danielle Antoinette , Bankston Carl L.
Published: October 2009

In this work, the authors use statistics from the U.S. Census to examine trends in intermarriage, racial and ethnic combinations, and categorizations among Asian Americans. Specifically, the authors want to consider the extent to which family patterns may contribute to Asian Americans and their descendants’ continuing as distinct, becoming members of some new category or categories, or simply becoming White. Based on the data analysis and discussion, it seems most likely that Whiteness will increasingly depend on the situation: Where there are Asians,Whites, and Blacks, Asians will tend to become White.Where there are only Whites, Asians, including even those of multiracial background, may well continue to be distinguished. Yet people in mixed families will be continually crossing all racial and ethnic lines in the United States, and their numbers will steadily increase.
Olanzapine in the long-term treatment of bipolar disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cipriani Andrea , Rendell Jennifer , Geddes John R
Published: October 2009

Olanzapine was licensed in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration in 2003 for the prevention of relapse in patients with bipolar disorder when the acute manic episode had responded to treatment with olanzapine. However, olanzapine is commonly used in clinical practice for preventing relapse in patients with bipolar disorder even when acute response has not been demonstrated. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the effectiveness and acceptability of olanzapine in preventing recurrent mood episodes in bipolar disorder.

MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Collaboration Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Controlled Trials Register and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled up to July 2008 were accessed. Only randomised controlled trials comparing olanzapine with placebo or other active drugs for long-term treatment were included. Two reviewers independently extracted data. Authors were contacted to provide additional data.

Of the five trials included in this review, four were conducted by Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of olanzapine. Olanzapine was more effective than placebo at preventing manic relapse, but there was no difference between olanzapine (alone or in combination with lithium or valproate) and placebo (alone or in combination with lithium or valproate) in terms of relapse into any mood episode, as defined as primary outcome by authors in each of the primary studies.

We conclude that olanzapine may prevent further manic episodes only in patients who have responded to olanzapine in an acute manic or mixed episode and who have not previously had a satisfactory response to lithium or valproate.
Problems in remote sensing of landscapes and habitats
Authors: Wang Kai , Franklin Steven E. , Guo Xulin , He Yuhong , McDermid Gregory J.
Published: October 2009

Wildlife habitat mapping strongly supports applications in natural resource management, environmental conservation, impacts of anthropogenic activity, perturbed ecosystem restoration, species-at-risk recovery and species inventory. Remote sensing has long been identified as a feasible and effective technology for large-area habitat mapping. However, existing and future uncertainties in remote sensing will definitely have a significant effect on the relevant scientific research. This article attempts to identify the current challenges and opportunities in remote sensing for large-area wildlife habitat mapping, and accordingly provide possible solutions and directions for further research.
Searching for Success: Boys, Family Aspirations, and Opportunities in Gabon, ca. 1900-1940
Authors: Rich Jeremy
Published: October 2009

Boys growing up in rural Gabon between 1900 and 1940 negotiated with many challenges: the rise of migrant labor, famines and hardships brought on by World War I, the growth of Christianity and African-based spiritual traditions, and the undermining of clans, which had been the main form of social and political organization in the nineteenth century. Parents, extended family members, missionaries, and European businesses recruited boys to serve their varied interests. Boys in turn developed new self-understandings by leaving their homes as students, workers, and clients of older men. This article examines the life histories of four boys to trace the successes and challenges that individual boys encountered in this turbulent era. Interestingly, older biological relatives of boys generally succeeded in maintaining their authority over children living far from home, although the education and wages that boys received forced older men to offer boys more benefits.
Influence of Fungal Decay on Physico-mechanical Properties of a Commercial Extruded Bagasse/PP Composite
Authors: Zabihzadeh S.M. , Hosseini Hashemi S.K. , Mehregan Nikoo H. , Sepidehdam S.M.J.
Published: October 2009

To evaluate the effect of fungal decay on the physico-mechanical properties of natural composites, a commercial extruded bagasse/polypropylene composite from a manufacturer was sampled. Weight loss, long-term water absorption, flexural modulus, flexural strength, and unnotched impact strength were determined after incubation with white and brown rot fungi for 14 weeks. Results indicated higher water absorption for all incubated samples. However, the water absorption capacity of brown-rotted samples was significantly higher than that of white rotted ones. The brown rot fungus caused more weight loss than the white rot fungus. Modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity declined after incubation with fungi. The brown rot fungus generally caused a greater reduction in flexural strength than did the white rot fungus. Fungal decay had no significant influence on unnotched impact strength.
The Effect of Test Parameters on Friction and Wear Performance of PTFE and PTFE Composites
Authors: Unal H. , Yetgin S.H. , Mimaroglu A. , Sumer M.
Published: October 2009

The friction and wear properties of pure poly-tetra-fluoro-ethylene (PTFE), 35% carbon filled poly-tetra-fluoro-ethylene (PTFE+35%C), and 17% glass fiber-reinforced poly-tetra-fluoro-ethylene (PTFE+17%GFR) sliding against stainless steel under dry sliding conditions were studied by using a pin-on-disc tribometer. The effect of applied pressure and sliding speed on tribological properties of the polymer-stainless steel combination under dry sliding conditions was investigated. Tests were carried out at sliding speeds of 0.32, 0.64, 0.96, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 m/s and under applied pressures of 0.17, 0.34, 0.68, 1.02, 1.76, 3.53, 5.30, and 7.07 MPa. Optical microscopy was utilized to examine the worn surfaces of pure PTFE and it’s composite. The results indicated that, for pure PTFE, carbon-filled PTFE and glass fiber-reinforced PTFE composites are used in this investigation; the friction coefficient decreases with the increase in applied load values. The maximum reduction in wear rate was obtained by glass fiber-reinforced PTFE composite. The specific wear rate for pure PTFE, carbon filled PTFE composite, and glass fiber-reinforced PTFE composite were in the order of 10-13, 10-14, and 10-15 m 2/N, respectively. The wear mechanism include adhesive and abrasive processes.
Process and Ballistic-resistant Buffer Effect of Cushion Composite Layer Made of Three-dimensional Crimped Hollow Fiber
Authors: Lin Chia-Chang , Huang Chao-Chiung , Lou Ching-Wen , Hsieh Chien-Teng , Lin Chin-Mei , Pai Chen  , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: October 2009

This study utilized a 3D crimped hollow fiber web and high tenacity nylon-6 fiber web blended with low-melt polyester staple fibers to form a compound nonwoven fabric with a sandwich structure processed by needle punching and thermal pressing. The compound nonwoven fabric was layered with Kevlar fabric to form bullet-resistant complex fabrics. Impact properties and buffer effect were analyzed via the drop weight impact test and the bullet-shooting test. The compound nonwoven fabrics made of high-tenacity nylon-6 fiber and 3D crimped hollow fiber increased the buffer effect of ballistic resistance and decreased non-penetration damage and the layer of Kevlar fabrics. This study was expected to increase the safety of the ballistic resistant cloth and decrease its cost.
Physicomechanical Properties of Chemically Treated Palm Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Haque Mominul , Islam Saiful , Islam Sakinul , Islam Nazrul , Huque Monimul , Hasan Mahbub
Published: October 2009

Palm fiber reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites were manufactured using a single extruder and an injection molding machine. Raw palm fiber was chemically treated with benzene diazonium salt to increase its compatibility with the polymer matrix. Both raw and treated palm was utilized and six levels of filler loading (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 wt%) were used during composite manufacturing. Microstructural analysis (scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and mechanical testing (tensile, flexural, impact, hardness) were conducted. Treated palm fiber reinforced composites showed better mechanical properties compared to the raw ones. Among all composites, 30% fiber-reinforced ones had the optimum set of mechanical properties.
The Studies on Performance of Epoxy and Polyester-based Composites Reinforced with Bamboo and Glass Fibers
Authors: Kushwaha Pradeep K. , Kumar Rakesh
Published: October 2009

The mechanical and water absorption behavior of the bamboo-glass mat (strand and woven) reinforced epoxy and polyester laminate composites are studied. The hybridization with glass mat increases the mechanical and water resistant properties of the hybrid composites. The increase in properties is higher in the woven glass mat reinforced hybrid composites compared to the strand mat. For both the epoxy and polyester matrix composites, when two layers of strand glass mat were used the mechanical properties increase, but with three layers it shows a decrease in value. Whereas, with woven glass mat reinforcement the mechanical properties increase as the number of glass mat layer is increased. Addition of glass fiber results in reduction of water absorption by the epoxy and polyester bamboo composites. Water absorption is reduced with increase in the glass fibers in the composite.
Poly(Lactic Acid) (PLA)-reinforced Kenaf Bast Fiber Composites: The Effect of Triacetin
Authors: Nor Azowa Ibrahim  , Wan Md Zin Wan Yunus  , Othman Maizatulnisa , Abdan Khalina , Kamarul Arifin Hadithon
Published: October 2009

In this article, the mechanical, morphological, and dynamic-mechanical properties of the blends of PLA and kenaf bast short fiber were investigated. The composites, with different fiber loading and triacetin content, were prepared by melt blending techniques using a Brabender internal mixer at 60 rpm and 170°C for 10 min and their properties were examined. Pure PLA was used as a reference for the biocomposite samples. Triacetin was used as a plasticizer for PLA and PLA/kenaf composites in order to study the improvement in tensile properties. The tensile strength and stiffness of unplasticized biocomposite materials decreased with the addition of kenaf bast fibers but improved with the addition of triacetin. The optimum fiber loading was 30 wt% kenaf fibers in the PLA matrix with the addition of 5% triacetin. The dynamic mechanical analyses showed that triacetin improved the thermal stability of the biocomposites. The triacetin increased the storage modulus and gave a lower softening temperature for plasticized biocomposites. The micrographs of the tensile specimens and their fractured surfaces, which were examined by scanning electron microscopy, demonstrated that better adhesion between the fibers and the matrix was achieved with the addition of the plasticizer.
When Self-Presentation Trumps Access: Why Older Adults With Low Vision Go Without Low-Vision Services
Authors: Spafford Marlee M. , Laliberte Rudman Debbie , Leipert Beverly D. , Klinger Lisa , Huot Suzanne
Published: October 2009

Reasons were sought for low-vision service nonuse in a group of Canadian seniors with self-reported low vision. Audio-recorded semistructured interviews were completed with 34 seniors with low vision: age range (70 to 94 years; mean: 82 years); 16 urban dwellers (12 women); 18 rural dwellers (14 women). Qualitative content analysis and template analytic techniques were applied to transcriptions. Informant nonuse of low-vision services involved: insufficient knowledge, managing for now, and practitioner behavior (inadequate rehabilitation education and management). Underlying seniors’ attitudes that shaped their self-presentation and service nonuse included a strong need for independence, a contextualization of vision loss relative to other losses, and an acceptance of vision loss in life. Service delivery strategies should consider not only knowledge access and healthcare practitioner behavior but also senior self-presentation strategies (e.g., viewing aids as counterproductive to independence). Subtle rural-urban attitudinal differences may further delay access for rural seniors; further research is advised.
Would Older Adults Turn to Community Support Services for Help to Maintain Their Independence?
Authors: Denton Margaret , Ploeg Jenny , Tindale Joseph , Hutchison Brian , Brazil Kevin , Akhtar-Danesh Noori , Lillie Jean , Millen Plenderleith Jennifer
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this article is to determine whether middle-aged and older adults would identify community support services (CSSs) as a source of assistance for difficulties with the instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). Furthermore, we determine factors related to the identification of home health and CSSs.Telephone interviews were conducted with 768 adults aged 50 and older. Respondents were presented with a vignette describing a situation where loss of independence is threatened. They were asked what they would do in that situation. Although less than 20% mentioned CSSs, nearly 50% mentioned either a home health or CSS. Findings suggest those less likely to mention a home health or CSS include men, older adults, and the foreign born. In addition, those with less education, functional health limitations, no social support, and a lack of knowledge of where to find information about CSSs mentioned home health or CSSs less often.
Can Community-Based High School Transition Programs Improve the Cost-Efficiency of Supported Employment?
Authors: Evert Cimera Robert
Published: October 2009

This study investigates the potential impact that community-based, high school transition programs have on the cost-efficiency of individuals with disabilities when they become adults. Outcomes achieved by 246 supported employees were compared. Results indicated that supported employees who participated in community-based transition programs in high school were more cost-efficient from the taxpayers’ perspective than were individuals who received only in-school transition services or received no transition services at all. Supported employees who received community-based transition services also kept their jobs in the community significantly longer than did individuals from the comparison groups.
Education Spending and State Economic Growth: Are All Dollars Created Equal?
Authors: Deskins John , Hill Brian , Ullrich Laura
Published: October 2009

This article contributes to the literature on the effect of state and local education spending on U.S. state economic growth by separately analyzing higher and K-12 education spending and by taking into account the possibility that education spending may generate spillover effects to neighboring states. Results from a series of fixed-effects regressions using a 1992-2002 panel of state-level data indicate that increased spending on higher education generally exhibits a relatively large negative effect on private sector employment or gross state product growth when the increase in education spending is financed through own-source revenue. Results do not identify a statistically significant relationship between K-12 education spending and economic growth. This finding is an important clarification in the literature because an analysis of combined higher and K-12 education spending yields an overall negative effect. Results do not provide consistent evidence of cross-state spillover effects associated with either form of education spending.
The Trial of Japanese War Criminals in China
Authors: Jing Chen
Published: October 2009

This article explores the trial of Japanese war criminals by the People’s Republic of China in the 1950s and explains why China decided to try these war criminals in a lenient and humanitarian way, why the trial was held only in 1956 and not earlier, and how these Japanese war criminals were persuaded to change their stance from stubborn denial to open confession of their guilt and regrets. Drawing on declassified documents concerning the trial released by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in May 2006, this article finds that the timing and the conduct of the trial were intertwined with China’s political strategy in relation to Japan at that period of time.
On Power, Freedom, and Gender
Authors: Amigot Patricia , Pujal Margot
Published: October 2009

In this article we highlight some aspects of Foucault’s work that are useful for analyzing the processes of subjective production and relations of power marked by gender, understood as dispositifs. Feminist theories and practices offer fundamental resources both for the development of the Foucauldian perspective itself, and for the analysis and transformation of power relations. In relation to the tension between power and freedom, we highlight the importance of two issues: first, the intermediate space between states of domination and power relations—a distinction established by Foucault—which makes possible a more precise consideration of the dispositif of gender as well as its transformation; second, the relation between practices of the self and power relations, which makes it possible to identify the conditions of possibility for the exercise of resistance and freedom.
Measurement Theory, Psychology and the Revolution That Cannot Happen
Authors: Trendler Günter
Published: October 2009

Doubt is raised that revolutions in measurement theory, for example conjoint measurement or Rasch measurement, will lead to the quantification of psychological attributes. First, the meaning of measurement is explained. Relying on this, it is demonstrated that in order to attain quantification under causally complex circumstances it is necessary to manipulate the phenomena involved and control systematic disturbances. The construction of experimental apparatus is necessary to accomplish these tasks. The creation of modern quantitative science through the adoption of this method is called the Galilean revolution. Next the Millean quantity objection is formulated. If the Galilean revolution is not possible in psychology, the task of quantification is not solvable. The objection is defended. Psychological phenomena are neither manipulable nor controllable to the required extent. Therefore they are not measurable.
Measurement of Accessibility and Its Applications
Authors: Yoshida Nobuo , Deichmann Uwe
Published: October 2009

Access to markets and social services is a major determinant of economic status and welfare. Measurement of access is therefore of great importance for policy analysis and planning of interventions. The objective of this article is to expose readers to a new way of measuring and visualising accessibility—a potential accessibility index—and its applications. This index gauges connectivity of a specific location to large cities while taking into account the population of the cities or other destinations of interest and the transportation facilities to reach them. The potential accessibility index is used in the empirical literature to test the hypotheses from the ‘New Economic Geography’ regarding the impact of market access on regional economic growth. Along with recent developments in poverty mapping, this index has also been used to investigate the spatial relationship between poverty and market access. Accessibility indexes are gradually gaining acknowledgement of policy makers and development practitioners as important monitoring instruments of development. For example, a rural access indicator is part of the results measurement system for the World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) programmes.
Financial Analysis of the ICT Industry
Authors: Mathur Somesh K.
Published: October 2009

This article attempts to quantify the following things:

1. the technical efficiency of the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) sector in 52 countries in 2006–07 and in 45 countries in 2002–03 by using the DEA method.

2. Malmquist Index of Productivity Growth in the ICT sector in 45 countries between these two periods.

3. the proportions of the productivity growth attributable to efficiency and technical change.

4. the effect on total factor productivity (TFP) of catching-up, the export ratio, Broadband policy and technical readiness using a regression analysis.

As a result, the paper finds that:

1. The ICT sectors in South Korea and Argentina were relatively efficient in 2002–03, while in 2006–07, the ICT sectors in Bahrain, Brazil and Sweden showed relative efficiency.

2. The productivity growth in the ICT sector in developing and newly industrialised countries is slightly lower than the growth in developed and transition countries, suggesting the catching-up of developing and newly industrialised countries. This catching-up effect is also confirmed in the regression analysis.

3. Technological readiness, which is a measure of the agility with which an economy adopts existing technologies, has a positive impact on TFP growth.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth in India
Authors: Chakraborty Debashis , Guha Arup
Published: October 2009

It is a well-known fact that there is an urgent need to re-energise India's rural economy, including both agricultural and the non-farm sector. A number of recent initiatives undertaken intend to augment the rural infrastructure level, which could contribute positively in this regard. Infrastructure development is also likely to contribute in improving the poverty scenario. Looking at the village-level infrastructural scenario for the states, the current analysis attempts to create a composite index of the infrastructure enjoyed by them, which in essence reflects their future growth potential. The analysis is performed separately for the bigger and the smaller states, and then the infrastructural scenario is compared with the state GDP and per capita state GDP growth pattern. The paper concludes by acknowledging the potential role of private and public entities in this regard.
A Comparison of Attitudes to the Police Between Greek Cypriots and Ethnic Minorities Living in Cyprus
Authors: Zalaf Alexia , Wood Jane
Published: October 2009

The attitudes of 66 ethnic minorities and 152 Cypriots toward the police were examined according to age, experience of criminal victimization, and race. Questions were based on the British Crime Survey (BCS) and the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) and were translated into Greek. Results showed low levels of experience of possession crime and crime against the person in Cypriots and ethnic minorities, with no difference in these experiences between the two groups. Attitudes to the police were predicted by age and ethnicity with younger participants and Cypriots holding more negative attitudes than older participants and ethnic minorities. Victimization experience did not predict attitudes. Some victims of crime, who had not reported the crime to the police, stated that their reasons for not doing so were because of their lack of trust in the police’s ability to do something about the incident. Discussion centers on reasons why differences in attitudes toward the police might exist and the implications of the findings for the Cypriot police force in terms of public relations.
Intimate Partner Abuse: A Case Study Involving a Father and a Son
Authors: Aymer Samuel R.
Published: October 2009

Intimate partner abuse cases usually center on providing services to mothers and their children. This article discusses a paradigm shift—a father—son dyad is presented—illustrating how intimate partner abuse affects their relationship. Attachment, social learning, fatherhood, masculinity, and complex trauma theories are used to ground the case. Boss’s paradigm of ambiguous loss is used to conceptualize, assess, and describe the course of treatment. Finally, recommendations to clinicians are discussed.
“Don’t Kick Me Out!”: Day Treatment for Two Preschool Children With Severe Behavior Problems
Authors: Burke Raymond V. , Kuhn Brett R. , Peterson Jane L. , Peterson Roger W. , Badura Brack Amy S.
Published: October 2009

Parents of young children with severe emotional and behavior problems have few services from which to choose if their child is expelled from preschool for aggressive and disruptive behavior. Two case studies provide an overview of a multicomponent, intensive, day-treatment program for children with moderate to severe behavior disorders. Proximal and distal program goals are to eliminate presenting problem behaviors and increase social competencies and to reintegrate children back to their school, preschool, or daycare, respectively. The cases presented in this study provide preliminary evidence that day treatment can be a viable option for young children with disruptive behavior disorders.
Staged Approach for Surgical Management of External Iliac Vein Aneurysm Associated With Traumatic Femoral Arteriovenous Fistula
Authors: Vasquez Julio C. , Montesinos Efrain , DeLaRosa Jacob , Leon Juan J.
Published: October 2009

Aneurysms of the iliac vein are rare. They can occur in association with arteriovenous fistulae located elsewhere. Here, we present a 30-year-old man who developed a large left external iliac vein aneurysm in association with a chronic traumatic arteriovenous fistula in the left thigh. Less than 25 cases of iliac vein aneurysms have been reported in the last 40 years. The presentation and treatment of this condition has been heterogeneous. We suggest that adequate surgical treatment can be offered in a staged approach: aneurysm resection with reconstruction should be done first, followed by closure of the arteriovenous fistula 6 months later.
Effect of Saphenous Vein Diameter on Closure Rate With ClosureFAST Radiofrequency Catheter
Authors: Calcagno David , Rossi John A. , Chi Ha
Published: October 2009

Purpose: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of veins >12 mm in diameter has been a controversial subject since the first-generation device was submitted for Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Veins >12 mm were excluded in the initial study. Many insurance carriers used >12 mm size as reason to not approve the procedure. As the concept of tumescent anesthesia was better communicated, RFA was used for large veins. The 12-mm size limit was not used in the studies for the newer ClosureFAST catheter approval, yet remains in force with some insurance companies. Our objective was to determine whether vein diameter >12 mm had effect on closure rates with the Closure-FAST catheter. Methods: ClosureFAST RFA was used to eliminate saphenous reflux in consecutive cases in 1 center. Retrospective analysis was performed on prospectively gathered data. Veins were divided into ≤12 mm diameter (group A) or >12 mm diameter (group B). Duplex scans were scheduled for 2 to 5 days and 6 months postprocedure. Results: A total of 338 great and small saphenous veins were treated, 246 saphenous veins in group A (mean 8 ± 2 mm) and 96 in group B (mean 17 ± 4 mm). Early duplex showed complete closure in 231 veins in group A (94%) and 92 veins in group B (96%; NS). The remaining veins showed partial closure with none showing retrograde flow. Six-month duplex scans were completed in 155 veins. Complete closure was seen in 110 veins in group A (98%) and 43 veins in group B (100%; NS). All veins partially open on early scan had closed by 6 months. The 2 veins open at 6 months in group A were closed on initial scan. Conclusions: Vein diameter >12 mm had no effect on closure rate with the ClosureFAST catheter.
Hybrid Repair of Isolated Internal Iliac Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Chandra Ankur , Kansal Nikhil
Published: October 2009

Isolated aneurysms of the internal iliac artery (IIIAA) represent a rare pathology. The application of endovascular therapy has been shown to reduce both mortality and blood loss. We present a case of an isolated left internal iliac artery aneurysm treated with a hybrid approach. A 92-year-old male was found to have an asymptomatic 4.6-cm aneurysm of the left internal iliac artery. He underwent coil embolization of 3 branch outflow arteries of the aneurysm. With completion angiography confirming no distal flow, we performed open ligation of the left internal iliac artery at its origin with minimal blood loss. The patient experienced no pelvic ischemia symptoms following repair. Computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed aneurysm exclusion at 4-year follow-up. The hybrid approach to IIIAA in the nonagenarian population is a viable alternative and may confer significant improvements in outcomes and blood loss.
Vascular Wall Invasion in Neurofibromatosis-Induced Aortic Rupture
Authors: Falcone John L. , Go Michael R. , Baril Donald T. , Oakley Gerard J. , Makaroun Michel S. , Chaer Rabih A.
Published: October 2009

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) is an autosomal dominant disease primarily characterized by cutaneous café au lait macules, benign neurofibromas, and iris hamartomas. A spectrum of vascular abnormalities is associated with NF-1. We present a case of a 49-year-old female with NF-1 and spontaneous rupture of the infrarenal aorta caused by invasion of a neurofibroma and treated with endovascular stent grafting.