bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finding the Patient within: Managing the Transitions from Student Nurse, to Patient, to Nurse Therapist
Authors: Bracey Anita
Published: April 2003

The author recounts elements in her stay at a Therapeutic Community that enabled her as a mental health nursing student, to overcome resistance to acknowledging her own vulnerabilities. Reflecting on that experience, she identifies the qualities that professionals who experience `life on the other side' may emerge with, and the resultant benefits. The author focuses, finally, on her struggle to integrate the experience of having been labelled with severe psychopathology into her sense of self as she moves along a career path through the role of Nurse Therapist and on to group-analytic training, addressing the need for a more inclusive approach to validating such personal experience as something that might valuably inform clinical practice.
Buddhism and Group Analysis
Authors: Davidson Ben , Thomas Alyss
Published: April 2003

The disciplines of Buddhism and group analysis share some important common ground. The writers, two group analysts who have also been involved in extensive Buddhist training and practice, believe that the rich and diverse resources from Buddhist theory and practice are directly applicable to the theory and practice of group analysis. This article is the fruit of a dialogue between them, and represents an initial attempt to chart some simple comparisons and contrasts between Buddhism and group analysis.
What is Social Class?
Authors: Craib Ian
Published: April 2003

The paper begins with a brief account of the theoretical traditions that have framed the discussion of class in British sociology. It goes on to discuss the changes in class structure in the last 50 Years and summarizes the most recent work on how social class affects people `s lies. Finally it makes some suggestions about the relevance of this for clinicians.
A Group of Group Conductors as Mirror of Social Stratification Conflicts
Authors: Scani Gadbor
Published: April 2003

Greater social and cultural distance aggravates the role conflicts (of the group conductor, and reduce his/her (self)-reflecting capacity. An understanding of the group process is not possible without reflecting upon its context, the formative social surround, present mainly the social unconscious. From experience gained from a peer-supervision group that I facilitated, I highlight the impact of changing social identity, due to all-embracing societal changes, in tile mirroring processes of the group.
Falling in and out of Class Structures
Authors: Pines Malcolm
Published: April 2003

This article focuses oii a single case study of depression in mother and son culminating in suicide. The illnesses are r-elated to major disruptions of identity caused by social mobility and demographic change.
Hearing, Speaking and Doing Class-Aware Psychotherapy: A Group-Analytic Approach
Authors: Storck Lauren E.
Published: April 2003

This article addresses a few myths that devalue the contested concept of class, and also explores values that enrich a new psychosocial perspective about class. It discusses the importance of including class awareness in psychotherapy training and practice, rather than neglecting class dynamics in our cultures. Two clinical vignettes are included and strategies and suggestions for a class-aware practice from a group-analytic perspective.
The Democratic Origins of the Term `Group Analysis': Karl Mannheim's `Third Way' for Psychoanalysis and Social Science
Authors: Winship Gary
Published: April 2003

It is well known that Foulkes acknowledged Karl Mannheim as the first to use the term `group analysis'. However, Mannheim's work is otherwise not well known. This article examines the foundations of Mannheim's sociological interest in groups using the Frankfurt School (1929-1933) as a start point through to the brief correspondence of 1945 between Mannheim and Foulkes (previously unpublished). It is argued that there is close conjunction between Mannheim's and Foulkes's revision of clinical psychoanalysis along sociological lines. Current renderings of the Frankfurt School tradition pay almost exclusive attention to the American connection (Herbert Marcuse, Eric Fromm, Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer) overlooking the contribution of the English connection through the work of Mannheim and Foulkes.
Irene Bloomfield's Work on Intergenerational Communication within Families Affected by Nazi Persecution
Authors: Glassman Gaby
Published: April 2003

This paper has been written as a personal tribute to the life and work of Irene Bloomfield. It focuses on her pioneering contributions to the development and practice of psychotherapeutic work with families affected by Nazi persecution and on the use of groupanalytic methods, where appropriate. It places special emphasis on her experience in dealing with the intergenerational communication problems encountered within those predominantly Jewish families. Her innovative approaches are significant in that they have wider relevance, notably within other traumatized groups, which have been persecuted because of social, cultural, ethnic or religious differences.
Some Observations from a Group `Inherited' from a Deceased Therapist
Authors: Lešnik Bogdan
Published: April 2003

The author, having `inherited' a group from a deceased colleague and friend, found that it remained `her' (the late therapist's) group until the end. In this article, noted countertransferential issues are raised, and a striking analogy is found between events in the therapist's own training group and supervision and the events in the `inherited' group. Some relevant literature is discussed initially, the history of the group is outlined, the concept of `transition' (from one therapist to another) discussed, and further developments, including termination, are analysed.
Knowledge Graphs and Network Text Analysis
Authors: Popping Roel
Published: April 2003

A knowledge graph is a kind of semantic network representing some scientific theory. The article describes the present state of this field and addresses a number of problems that have not yet been solved. These problems are implicit relations, strength of (causal) relations, and exclusiveness. Concepts might be too broad or complex to be used properly, so directions for solving these problems are explored. The solutions are applied to a knowledge graph in the field of labour markets.
Evolution or Progress? A (Critical) Defence of Habermas's Theory of Social Development
Authors: Kirkpatrick Graeme
Published: April 2003

Habermas's theory of social evolution has been subjected to critique by environmentally motivated sociologists. They argue that his decision to recast social theory in terms of an extended, if selective analogy with biology leads him into a set of practical positions that are irreconcilable with Green politics and inconsistent with the goals of traditional critical theory. This article argues that these criticisms are based on an inaccurate assessment of the role of evolutionary concepts in Habermas's thought. By drawing out the similarities between Habermas and Kant on the question of the relationship between history and natural history, it is possible to see that Habermas's use of evolutionary metaphors plays a regulative rather than a constitutive role in his thinking on society. This strategy does not save Habermas's position, but shows instead that it may be vulnerable to an immanent critique that pulls out the real underlying antagonisms in his system.
Two Classes and One Vision?
Authors: Collom Ed
Published: April 2003

Workplace democracy has been advocated by labor as a means of worker empowerment and by management as an effort to improve productivity and quality. This article seeks to clarify this contradictory support through an analysis of American managers’ and workers’ attitudes. Class ideology and class experience are tested as factors that underlie attitudes toward three different forms of workplace democracy. Ordinary least squares regression and path analysis are employed in an analysis of national survey data from 1991. Class location is found to be a weak predictor, whereas class experience is a strong determinant. The findings indicate that American workers want more control once they get some influence over workplace decision making, highlighting a paradox behind the often narrow goals of managers. Implications are discussed vis-à-vis the labor movement and contemporary corporate participation programs.
Intelligence, Education, and Facets of Job Satisfaction
Authors: Ganzach Yoav
Published: April 2003

This article suggests that intelligence and education have differential effects on intrinsic job satisfaction and on pay satisfaction. Intelligence has a strong direct negative effect on intrinsic satisfaction but a negligible effect on pay satisfaction because it is positively associated with the level of desired job complexity but not with the level of expected pay. On the other hand, education has a strong direct negative effect on pay satisfaction but a small effect on intrinsic satisfaction because it is positively associated with expected pay. These effects of intelligence and education are compared to their effects on global job satisfaction.
Forward to Better Understanding of Optical Characterization and Development of Colored Polyamides for the Infra-Red/Laser Welding, Part II - Family of Colored Polyamides
Authors: Kagan Val , Chambers Al , Bray Robert
Published: April 2003

Recent developments were oriented towards optical characterization (laser transmission, absorption, etc.) at a wide range of the infrared wavelengths and optimized mechanical performance of polyamides (PA) for the infrared/laser through-transmission welding technology (TTLW).

The influence of coloring technology and type of pigments being used was also analyzed. During this study, recommendations were developed for optimizing the non carbon black pigment loading in various non-reinforced and fiber-glass-reinforced PA 6 grades. Additionally, we will discuss the efficiency of an advanced method of J - color technology (structural methods of coloring effects) for TTLW of the colored PA based plastic.
Axial Loading and Buckling Response Characteristics of Pultruded Hybrid Glass-Graphite/Epoxy Composite Beams
Authors: Ranganathan Swaminathan , Mantena P. Raju
Published: April 2003

The effects of hybridization on the buckling characteristics of flat pultruded glass-graphite/epoxy composite beams has been investigated. Theoretical buckling loads were obtained based on Euler’s formulation. Finite element models were constructed with different beam dimensions and end constraint conditions to simulate buckling. Experiments were conducted to verify and validate the theoretical and finite element results.

The experimental results were found to be consistent with the theoretical and finite element models. The buckling characteristics of composites showed that buckling strengths improve with increase in graphite fiber content. The improvements were more pronounced when glass fibers were replaced with graphite fibers located in the outer layers of the composite. The effectiveness of hybridization for improving the buckling performance of composite beams is highlighted.
An Investigation of through-Thickness Hygrothermal Expansion Coefficients of Angle-Ply Laminates
Authors: Yeh Hsien-Liang , Yeh Hsien-Yang
Published: April 2003

In this paper, an investigation of the through-thickness coefficients of hygrothermal expansion in the [30]4s,[45]4s, and [60]4s angle-ply laminates is presented. Based on the hygrothermal-elastic lamination theory, a dimensionless analysis has been used to calculate the values of the through-thickness coefficients of hygrothermal expansion in the angle-ply laminates. Also, the influences of the various lamina material properties such as Young’s modulus, shear modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and coefficients of hygrothermal expansion on the through-thickness coefficients of hygrothermal expansion of the angle-ply laminates are investigated. The results from this dimensionless analysis provide a set of general guidelines for designing the values of through-thickness coefficients of hygrothermal expansion in the angle-ply laminates to fit various environmental conditions in engineering application.
The Influence of Aqueous Environment, Temperature and Cyclic Loading on Glass-Fibre/Epoxy Composite Laminates
Authors: Ellyin Fernand , Rohrbacher Christof
Published: April 2003

An experimental investigation has been carried out to study effects of immersion in distilled water, temperature (ambient and 90°C) and cyclic loading on the mechanical behaviour of E-glass fibre reinforced epoxy matrix composite laminates. Three types of laminates were investigated: cross-ply, multi-directional and angle-ply. Following immersion for over four months, a steady state moisture uptake was reached for the ambient temperature specimens while no such state of saturation was observed for those immersed at 90°C temperature. Fatigue life curves of the immersed specimens are compared to those of the dry ones and the failure modes are discussed. Immersion in 90° temperature results in excessive swelling and cracking, and considerable reduction in the fatigue resistance. The inter-relation among accumulated creep strain due to cyclic loading, crack density variation and stiffness reduction are also discussed.
A Dimensionless Mathematical Model for Studying the Physical Parameters of Composite Laminates - Part I
Authors: Yeh Hsien-Liang , Yeh Hsien-Yang
Published: April 2003

In this article, a dimensionless mathematical model for studying the physical parameters of a quasi-isotropic composite laminate is presented. A simple random statistical analysis model showed that a quasi-isotropic and quasi-homogeneous composite laminate can be obtained from composite laminates with random ply orientations of 40 plies or more. The influence of the various lamina material properties E1, E2, G12, and 12 on the physical parameters of the laminate such as Young’s modulus E, shear modulus G, Poisson’s Ratio, and bending rigidity Db are studied. The results from this dimensionless mathematical model provide a set of general guidelines for designing the physical parameters of the composite laminates to fit various working conditions in engineering application.
Simplified Transverse Young’s Modulus of Aligned Ribbon-Reinforced Composites by the Mechanics-of-Materials Approach
Authors: Lim Teik Cheng
Published: April 2003

A simplified transverse Young’s Modulus of aligned, continuous ribbon-reinforced composites is developed herein within the framework of the mechanics-of-materials approach for the convenience of the designer. The chosen geometry is that of doubly periodi carray of rectangular parallel-piped, akin to the method-of-cells approach. Results from the present model compare well with an exact model, which is a combination of Mori-Tanaka’s average stress of the matrix and Eshelby’s stress field for an ellipsoidal inclusion. Furthermore, results reveal that increasing ribbon width at constant ribbon volume fraction leads to significant stiffness enhancement in the ribbon width direction with marginal loss of stiffness in the ribbon thickness direction.
Expected Parent-Care Involvement of Adult Children
Authors: Franks Melissa M. , Pierce Linda S. , Dwyer Jeffrey W.
Published: April 2003

Normative, individual, and contextual characteristics were examined as predictors of adult children's (N = 206) expectations of being primarily responsible for the care of an ill parent if called upon in the future. Although most did affirm that adult children should provide care for aging parents, this general social norm did not predict their expectations of primary involvement in the care of their own aging parents. Among these adult children not currently experiencing parental need, a large network of sisters decreased the likelihood of expected primary involvement in parent care. In addition, greater self-reported health as well as a specific family norm of parent care increased the likelihood that a given adult child expected to acquire primary responsibility for parent care in the future. Findings demonstrate that adult children possess distinct expectations for their level of involvement in parent care prior to parental need for aid.
Organizational Support of Career Development and Job Satisfaction
Authors: Kim Soonhee
Published: April 2003

As a result of widespread downsizing and an aging workforce in the federal government, career development and succession planning are rapidly becoming key strategic planning elements for effective human capital strategies to enhance government performance and accountability. This study explores the relationships between performance appraisal fairness, skill utilization, supervisors’ support of career development, participation in formal career development programs, and job satisfaction in the Department of Energy at Nevada. The results of multiple regression analysis showed that performance-appraisal fairness, skill utilization, and supervisors’ support of career development are positively associated with high levels of job satisfaction of public sector professionals. The article presents a number of suggestions for practice.
Does the Form Really Matter?
Authors: Reinke Saundra J.
Published: April 2003

This article reports the findings of a study on the attitudes of county government employees toward an existing performance appraisal system. Specifically, this study explores the role of trust in shaping supervisor and employee acceptance of the appraisal process. In addition, other, more traditional variables are explored, such as the perceived relevance of the appraisal form, length and complexity of the form, amount of training received on the appraisal system, and general level of understanding of the appraisal system. Findings indicate that the level of trust between the employee and supervisor is the most important predictor of acceptance of the appraisal system.
Review on Chemical Reactions of Burning Poly(methyl methacrylate) PMMA
Authors: Zeng W. R. , Li S. F. , Chow W. K.
Published: April 2003

Chemical reactions of burning Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) are reviewed in this paper although kinetics of thermal decomposition are believed to be fairly simple. Basically, there are three stages in the combustion of PMMA. Firstly, PMMA decomposes to produce monomer methyl methacrylate (MMA). Secondly, monomer MMA decomposes to generate small gaseous molecules that are usually combustible. Finally, these small molecules undergo combustion. Recent studies on the thermal decomposition kinetics and thermal stability of PMMA are also introduced. Results are useful for understanding the heat released of burning PMMA per unit mass of oxygen. Finally, the effects of additives on thermal decomposition are also discussed.
Application of Water Mist Fire Suppression Systems in Small Retail Shops
Authors: Chow W. K. , Yao B. , Ng M. Y.
Published: April 2003

Protecting small retail shops packed with combustible goods by sprinkler system might not be too satisfactory. Any delay in system activation will lead to a flashover fire. Also, there might be serious water damage which is not good for shops selling expensive items. Alternative fire protection systems should be searched for. Water mist might be effective for suppressing postflashover fires if the system is designed properly. Whether water mist fire suppression systems can be used in the small shops is discussed in this paper. Key factors affecting the system performance will be discussed. Potential application strategies are outlined. An example was used to illustrate the design of the system.
From Racial Zoning to Community Empowerment
Authors: Connerly Charles E.
Published: April 2003

This article shows how Birminghams interstate highway system attempted to maintain the racial boundaries that had been established by the citys 1926 racial zoning law. It shows how the construction of interstate highways through black neighborhoods in the city led to significant population loss in those neighborhoods and is associated with an increase in neighborhood racial change. Finally, the article shows how the citys black community moved from a position of quietly protesting the interstate highway system to one in which a black neighborhood forced government to alter plans that would have destroyed a section of a predominantly black public housing project. In so doing, the article shows how black neighborhoods, over time, moved from a position of adapting to the racial aspects of various planning tools to one in which they sought to modify these tools so that they would benefit, or at least not harm, the black community.
The Geography of Transit Crime
Authors: Loukaitou-Sideris Anastasia , Liggett Robin , Iseki Hiroyuki
Published: April 2003

The link between the social and physical environment and transit crime is an important one, but it is not well understood or explored. This study explores the environmenttransit crime connection by examining in depth the relation between crime incidence at the stations along a light-rail line in Los Angeles and the social and physical characteristics of the stations and their neighborhoods. The study employs a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze crime statistics, census and ridership data, and built environment data. It documents and evaluates the geography of crime along this light-rail line as well as the impact of sociodemographic and environmental attributes on crime incidence at the station.
Planning for the Transportation Needs of Welfare Participants
Authors: Blumenberg Evelyn
Published: April 2003

The responsibility for developing transportation programs for welfare participants spans multiple public agencies. Consequently, federal funding programs require that agencies work together to develop a coordinated response to address the transportation needs of welfare participants. Based on a survey of transportation, welfare, and employment agencies in nineteen California counties, this study examines the potential institutional obstacles to successful local collaboration and coordination among public agencies. The research shows that new sources of federal funds have encouraged interagency efforts to address the transportation needs of welfare participants. However, the divergent organizational goals, methods, and approaches of the participating agencies heavily influence these collaborative efforts. As a consequence, stakeholders may have difficulty moving beyond the narrow interests of their individual institutions to identify and plan for the transportation needs of welfare participants.
Operationalizing Neighborhood Accessibility for Land Use-Travel Behavior Research and Regional Modeling
Authors: Krizek Kevin J.
Published: April 2003

Many land use-transportation planning proposals aim to create neighborhoods with higher levels of neighborhood accessibility (NA). This article focuses on how such features are operationalized for purposes of research and/or regional modeling. The first section reviews specific variables classified by three basic tenets of NA: density, land use framework, and streets/design. The second section describes challenges in measuring NA to provide a better understanding of how such challenges shape research efforts and applications. The final section creates an NA index that is applied to the Central Puget Sound metropolitan area. The index uses detailed measures of density, land use mix, and street patterns and makes at least five contributions for urban form research.
An Exploration of Psychosocial Determinants of Obesity among Hispanic Women
Authors: Terán Lorena M. , Belkic Karen L. , Johnson C. Anderson
Published: April 2003

Obesity,a major public health problem among U.S. Hispanic women,has a psychosocial cultural context,which we explore through quantitative and qualitative methods. We examine,e.g. paid and unpaid work,cultural and familial dynamics,and their relation to eating habits,BMI and general well-being. Twenty-three Hispanic mothers mainly born in Mexico participated. Over half were obese and had less than 8 years of schooling. Multivariate predictors of BMI were “unrewarding” meal-related family behaviors and negative attributes of the children. Language discrepancy (Spanish predominance for the mother,but English spoken in the home) was sharpest among those with lowest SES, and was significantly correlated with unrewarding meal-related behaviors,poor self-assessed health,and borderline significantly with BMI. Low SES,social isolation and heavy burden of preparing meals,were inter-correlated and each directly associated with low self-esteem and indirectly, with obesity.
Too Few Good Men? Available Partners and Single Motherhood among Latinas, African Americans, and Whites
Authors: Catanzarite Lisa , Ortiz Vilma
Published: April 2003

The authors test whether structural indicators of mate availability—Wilson’s marriageable pool and sex ratio arguments—help explain individual-level racial/ethnic differences in the prevalence of single motherhood among young women. Using the Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) data for greater Los Angeles, they add mate availability measures to individual-level models. Quantity alone (sex ratio) is unrelated to single motherhood, but relative availability of employed men accounts for a significant share of what otherwise might be considered individual-level differences among immigrant Latina, native-born Latina, Black, and White women. Higher rates of single motherhood for native-born Latinas and Blacks appear to be partly due to poor marriageable pools.
The Influence of Social Capital on Mathematics Course Selection by Latino High School Students
Authors: Valadez James R.
Published: April 2003

This study examined the processes involved in high school mathematics course selection among Latino students. Of particular interest in this study were an investigation of how parental involvement affects these processes. The findings in this research generally provide evidence to support the notion that social capital is associated with more informed educational decisions. Introduction of ethnicity and socioeconomic variables complicate the findings by showing that aspects of parental involvement may be effective for White students but not for Latinos. Although social capital is effective for upper socioeconomic Latinos at increasing the likelihood of algebra and advanced mathematics enrollment, it tends to be less effective for lower socioeconomic Latinos. Future research should point toward a continued examination of the nature of our stratified society and how social capital varies across social class groups. Future initiatives should be directed at schools to develop programs, interventions, and partnerships with Latino families to help parents recognize and take advantage of their own resources to guide their children toward higher education.
The Evaluation of a Measurement Model for the Physical Appearance State and Trait Anxiety Scale in a Sample of Young Adult Women of Mexican Descent
Authors: Rutt Candace D. , Garcia Kimberly A. , Coleman Karen J.
Published: April 2003

The factor structure of the Physical Appearance State and Trait Anxiety Scale (PASTAS) was examined with exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA). The sample consisted of 196 women who self-identified as Hispanic, were low to moderately acculturated, had socioeconomic status levels of semiskilled workers, and had a normal body mass index (BMI). The final factor structure differed from the established factor structures found for Caucasian women. The published two factor structure (weight and nonweight) had a 2 /df ratio of 4.5 (trait) and 5.2 (state) with fit indices ranging from .753 to .795, indicating a poor fit. Anew three-factor solution (weight-related lower torso, weight-related midtorso, and non-weight-related) was found using EFA. After slight modifications, the final model had a 2 /df ratio of 2.6 for both versions with fit indices ranging from .882 to .930. This new model can be used to test body image anxiety among young, English-speaking college women of Mexican descent.
Language Brokering and the Acculturation of Latino Children
Authors: Weisskirch Robert S. , Alva Sylvia Alatorre
Published: April 2003

Children of immigrant parents frequently language broker, translating written forms and documents for their parents and other adults in various situations. Using a paper-and-pencil survey, 36 bilingual Latino fifth graders reported their experiences and levels of comfort in language brokering, levels of acculturation, feelings of acculturative stress, and self-concepts. Those who were least acculturated reported higher frequencies of language brokering and discomfort in doing so. Boys were more English dominant than girls and reported higher levels of acculturative stress. Girls were more Spanish dominant and had lower levels of acculturative stress. High levels of acculturative stress were associated with increased social acceptance by peers. Because the previous research with college students was retrospective, this study may demonstrate that the benefits of language brokering may be an age-graded phenomenon.
A Health Intervention on Latina Spiritual Well-Being Constructs: An Evaluation
Authors: Guinn Bobby , Vincent Vern
Published: April 2003

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a colonia community Latina educational intervention on the religious and existential constructs of spiritual well-being while recognizing acculturative status. Randomly assigned study participants were composed of one control (community, n = 105) and two experimental (alumni, n = 41; intervention, n = 84) groups. Data were gathered through religious and existential well-being and acculturation scales administered through one-on-one interviews. Results indicated that although all three groups were extremely low-acculturated intervention participants, religious and existential well-being scores were significantly higher than community scores and, although not statistically significant, alumni scores were also higher than community. This study supports the effectiveness of a community-centered intervention designed to promote the spiritual well-being dimension of Latinas.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms in Hispanic Immigrants After the September 11th Attacks: Severity and Relationship to Previous Traumatic Exposure
Authors: Pantin Hilda M. , Schwartz Seth J. , Prado Guillermo , Feaster Daniel J. , Szapocznik José
Published: April 2003

This study examined posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity in Hispanic immigrants exposed to September 11th attacks through television, ascertained the relationship between previous traumatic exposure and September 11th–related symptoms, and investigated the effect of television exposure of the attacks on symptoms. A total of 110 Hispanic immigrant adults (22 males, 88 females) living more than 1,000 miles from the attacks completed measures of natural disaster exposure, war violence exposure, and September 11th–related PTSD symptoms. Of the sample, 14% self-reported September 11th–related PTSD symptoms consistent with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) diagnosis. Previous exposure to natural disasters and war violence was significantly related to September 11th–related PTSD symptomatology. Individuals with symptoms consistent with a DSM-IV PTSD diagnosis reported twice as much war violence exposure and one-and-a-half times as much natural disaster exposure as those not meeting criteria. Results are discussed regarding potential public health implications.
Bilingualism: Relationships With Willingness to Participate in Union Activities
Authors: Mellor Steven , Kath Lisa M. , Bulger Carrie A.
Published: April 2003

This study examined the effects of bilingualism on willingness to participate in union activities. Surveys were completed by bilingual Hispanic members ( n = 48), monolingual (Spanish-only) Hispanic members ( n = 25), and monolingual (English-only) White and Black members ( n = 215, n = 61, respectively) from a local union representing semiskilled workers. The concept of second-culture competence from biculturalism theory was used to explain the influence of bilingualism on willingness to participate. In contrast with White and Black members, bilingual Hispanic members were more willing to participate, whereas monolingual Hispanic members were less willing to participate. Implications for union policy on enhancing participation among Hispanic members are discussed.
Interrelationships Among Identity Process, Content, and Structure: A Cross-Cultural Investigation
Authors: Berzonsky Michael D. , Macek Petr , Nurmi Jari-Erik
Published: April 2003

This study was designed to investigate hypothesized relationships among identity process, content, and structure with youth living in three different cultural contexts: the United States, Finland, and the Czech Republic. Results indicated that youth who used an informational identity processing style had well-structured identities that were rooted in personal self-elements. Youth who used a normative processing style also had well-consolidated identities but ones anchored in collective self-elements. Youth who relied on a diffuse/avoidant identity processing style lacked firm identity commitments and emphasized social self-components in defining their sense of identity. This pattern of relationships was found for both male and female youth living within all three cultural contexts.
Types of Voluntary Service and Adolescents’ Civic Development
Authors: Metz Edward , McLellan Jeffrey , Youniss James
Published: April 2003

The goal of this study was to examine whether and which types of voluntary service might facilitate the civic development of adolescents. The sample consisted of 428 students who were drawn from two administrations of a survey at a public high school in the Boston area. The hypothesis proposed that students who performed service that aided people in need or addressed social issues would lead to greater concern for social issues and higher intended levels of civic engagement. When these types of service were compared to other forms of service or no service, analyses showed that social cause service participation was positively related to concern for social issues, future unconventional civic intentions, and future intended service. Results were interpreted as indicating that the developmental connection between community service and civic development may be dependent on the specific nature of volunteer activity that adolescents perform.
Life before the Clock: Modeling Circadian Evolution
Authors: Roenneberg Till , Merrow Martha
Published: April 2003

A feedback loop that functions via transcription and translation is thought to be the mechanistic core of circadian rhythmicity. Numerous modeling efforts incorporate the identified components and their modifications to recreate the circadian clock in computer simulations. Several issues remain problematic, including the lack of precise quantitative kinetics and the likely existence of additional, as-yet-undiscovered components. Even without these complications, models and flow charts of the circadian system have reached high complexity. They attempt to reconcile all observations without violating current views and concepts. In this article, the authors consider the mechanisms that may have preceded the circadian system in evolution. Given that cellular metabolism and biochemistry were presumably already interconnected in cascading feedback reactions prior to the appendage of the transcription/translation feedback loop, a coordinated response to exogenous changes would be advantageous over unsystematic responses. The authors hypothesize that those mechanisms that allowed synchronization in spite of metabolic complexity form the basis for the evolution of circadian properties and are as fundamental to the circadian system as the transcriptional/translational feedback loop.
Sleep Processes Exert a Predominant Influence on the 24-h Profile of Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Viola Antoine U. , Simon Chantal , Ehrhart Jean , Geny Bernard , Piquard François , Muzet Alain , Brandenberger Gabrielle
Published: April 2003

Adverse cardiovascular events are known to exhibit 24-h variations with a peak incidence in the morning hours and a nonuniform distribution during the night. The authors examined whether these 24-h variations could be related to circadian or sleep-related changes in heart rate (HR) and in HR variability (HRV). To differentiate the effect of circadian and sleep-related influences, independent of posture and of meal ingestion, seven normal subjects were studied over 24 h, once with nocturnal sleep from 2300 to 0700 h and once after a night of sleep deprivation followed by8hof daytime sleep from 0700 to 1500 h. The subjects were submitted to constant conditions (continuous enteral nutrition and bed rest). HRV was calculated every 5 min using two indexes: the standard deviation of normal R-R intervals (SDNN) and the ratio of low-frequency to low-frequency plus high-frequency power. Sleep processes exerted a predominant influence on the 24-h profiles of HR and HRV, with lowest HRV levels during slow wave sleep, high levels during REM sleep and intrasleep awakenings, and abrupt increases in HR at each transition from deeper sleep to lighter sleep or awakenings. The circadian influence was smaller, except for SDNN, which displayed a nocturnal increase of 140% whether the subjects slept or not. This study demonstrates that 24-h variations in HR and HRV are little influenced by the circadian clock and are mainly sleep-stage dependent. The results suggest an important role for exogenous factors in the morning increase in cardiovascular events. During sleep, the sudden rises in HR at each transition from deeper sleep to lighter sleep or awakenings might precipitate the adverse cardiac events.
Photoperiod Affects Amplitude but Not Duration of In Vitro Melatonin Production in the Ruin Lizard (Podarcis sicula)
Authors: Bertolucci C. , Wagner G. , Foà A. , Gwinner E. , Brandstätter R.
Published: April 2003

The pineal gland and its major output signal melatonin have been demonstrated to play a central role in the seasonal organization of the ruin lizard Podarcis sicula. Seasonal variations in the amplitude of the nocturnal melatonin signal, with high values in spring as compared to low values in summer and autumn, have been found in vivo. The authors examined whether the pineal gland of the ruin lizard contains autonomous circadian oscillators controlling melatonin synthesis and whether previously described seasonal variations of in vivo melatonin production can also be found in isolated cultured pineal glands obtained from ruin lizards in summer and winter. In vitro melatonin release from isolated pineal glands of the ruin lizard persisted for 4 days in constant conditions. Cultured explanted pineal glands obtained from animals in winter and summer showed similar circadian rhythms of melatonin release, characterized by damping of the amplitude of the melatonin rhythm. Although different photoperiodic conditions were imposed on ruin lizards before explantation of pineal glands, the authors did not find any indication for corresponding differences in the duration of elevated melatonin in vitro. Differences were found in the amplitude of in vitro melatonin production in light/dark conditions and, to a lesser degree, in constant conditions. The presence of a circadian melatonin rhythm in vitro in winter, although such a rhythm is absent in vivo in winter, suggests that pineal melatonin production is influenced by an extrapineal oscillator in the intact animal that may either positively or negatively modulate melatonin production in summer and winter, respectively.
Response of the Mouse Circadian System to Serotonin 1A/2/7 Agonists in vivo: Surprisingly Little
Authors: Antle Michael C. , Ogilvie Malcolm D. , Pickard Gary E. , Mistlberger Ralph E.
Published: April 2003

Serotonin (5-HT) is thought to play a role in regulating nonphotic phase shifts and modulating photic phase shifts of the mammalian circadian system, but results with different species (rats vs. hamsters) and techniques (in vivo vs. in vitro; systemic vs. intracerebral drug delivery) have been discordant. Here we examined the effects of the 5-HT1A/7 agonist 8-OH-DPAT and the 5-HT1/2 agonist quipazine on the circadian system in mice, with some parallel experiments conducted with hamsters for comparative purposes. In mice, neither drug, delivered systemically at a range of circadian phases and doses, induced phase shifts significantly different from vehicle injections. In hamsters, quipazine intraperitoneally (i.p.) did not induce phase shifts, whereas 8-OH-DPAT induced phase shifts after i.p. but not intra-SCN injections. In mice, quipazine modestly increased c-Fos expression in the SCN (site of the circadian pacemaker) during the subjective day, whereas 8-OH-DPAT did not affect SCN c-Fos. In hamsters, both drugs suppressed SCN c-Fos in the subjective day. In both species, both drugs strongly induced c-Fos in the paraventricular nucleus (within-subject positive control). 8-OH-DPAT did not significantly attenuate light-induced phase shifts in mice but did in hamsters (between-species positive control). These results indicate that in the intact mouse in vivo, acute activation of 5-HT1A/2/7 receptors in the circadian system is not sufficient to reset the SCN pacemaker or to oppose phase-shifting effects of light. There appear to be significant species differences in the susceptibility of the circadian system to modulation by systemically delivered serotonergics.
Experimental Design for the Synthesis of Polyacrylamide Superporous Hydrogels
Authors: Omidian Hossein , Park Kinam
Published: April 2003

An experimental design, based on L-18 Taguchi matrix, was used to examine the influence of formulation ingredients on a variety of aspects of gel formation during the synthesis of polyacrylamide hydrogels. Although a vast variety of formulations could lead to reasonable hydrogel networks, attempts were made to design a basic formulation that could be used to generate strong and elastic superporous hydrogels. The final properties of the hydrogels, especially when prepared in the presence of atmospheric oxygen, depended on events during their gel formation. Gelation features, including inhibition period, exothermic period and temperature increases, observed during the gelation, are dependent on the type and concentration of ingredients within the preparatory formulation. For this study, seven variables were chosen and their effects were examined within the frame of a L-18 Taguchi matrix. The parameters examined were inhibition period, exothermic period, maximum temperature due to exothermic reaction, and solubility feature along with the physical appearance at gelation point.
Study of the Grafting of Bromoacetylated α-Hydroxy-ω-Methoxypoly(Ethyleneglycol) onto Anionically Activated Poly(∊-Caprolactone)
Authors: Ponsart Stéphanie , Coudane Jean , McGrath Jonathan , Vert Michel
Published: April 2003

Bromoacetylated α-hydroxy-ω methoxy-poly (ethyleneglycol) (Mn = 2000 g mol−1) was allowed to react with a poly(∊ caprolactone) (Mn = 53,700, Mw/Mn =(1.50) that was first activatedby removing some of the proton atoms borne by the carbon atoms locatedin -position of carbonyl groups using lithium N-N-diisopropylamide as basic reagent in tetrahydrofurane at 78°C under argon flow. The reaction resulted in the grafting of methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) segments to some of the poly("-caprolactone) chains. The resulting polymeric compounds were characterized by various analytical techniques including NMR, SEC, DSC, X-ray diffraction and contact angle. Various characteristics of the recovered compounds, namely degree of substitution, degree of crystallinity, glass transition and melting temperatures, hydrophilicity, were evaluated. It was concluded that grafting was effective but sometimes not all poly("-caprolactone) chains were modified, depending on experimental conditions. Moreover, 150 nm nanoparticles were obtained without any additional surfactant for a 0.74% substitution degree copolymer.
Morpho-Structural Investigations of Biomaterials for Biocidal Activity
Authors: Pugnaloni A. , Gabbanelli F. , Mattioli-Belmonte M. , Delfino A. , Biagini G. , Tucci M. G. , Ricotti G. , Orlando F. , Viticchi C. , Fini M.
Published: April 2003

A new wound dressing made of gelatin and Ag, was evaluated for the management of tissue reconstitution in rats. The gelatin–based dressing, with metabolic stimulation properties that favored the recovery of the skin was made of stiff sheets to supply the repairingtissue with mechanical support. The gelatin sheets enhanced the development of collagen fibers and subsequently cell proliferation at the level of stromal and vascular elements. A protocol based on the utilization of natural biomaterials in the presence of low concentrations of a biocidal was proposed which could control microbiocidal activities principally in burned and debilitated patients.
Poly(Ester-Sulfide)S from Oligo(Oxyethylene)Dithiols and Bis(Acrylates)
Authors: Tomasi Simone , Bizzarri Ranieri , Solaro Roberto , Chiellini Emo
Published: April 2003

Poly(β-thioesters) were synthesized by Michael-type base-catalyzed polyaddition of oligo(ethylene glycol) α, ω-dithiols to bis(acrylic esters). Fine tuning of the hydrophilic–hydrophobic balance of the polymers can be achieved by modulating the length of the oligo(ethylene glycol) segment and the nature of the spacer between the two ester groups in the bis(acrylate) moiety. Investigation of the reactivity of oligo(ethylene glycol)dithiols with acrylic systems is reported, with the aim of determining the best conditions for a polyaddition process involving the base catalyzed addition of such dithiols to bis(acrylate) systems. Some hypotheses are proposed for the role of the solvent and of the catalyst. The influence of the molecular structure of the reactants on reactivity and on the properties of the resulting polymers is also discussed.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biodegradability of Poly(Ethylene Glycol)-Bound Molecule Platinum Complexcontaining Ferrocenyl Moiety Using MALDI Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Bariyanga J.
Published: April 2003

Monomethoxypolyethylene glycol (MPEG) was bound to a ferroceny/ketimine and the resulting molecule complexed with platinum ion. The chief means of characterization of the intermediate and final compounds was Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. The results indicated some degree of decomposition by the MALDI source for the intermediate compounds and the presence of platinum complex as a chelate. The biodegradability of the MPEG-bound molecule complex was also studied using papain at 37°C and pH 7.80 in ammonium phosphate buffer to avoid metal catonization during mass ionization. The mass spectra showed that the complex was 50% degraded within 20 min and then remained unchanged up to 48 hours.