bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetic Profiles of Controlled‐Release Hydrogel Polymer Vaginal Inserts Containing Misoprostol
Authors: Powers Barbar L. , Wing Debora A. , Carr Denis , Ewert Karin , Spirito Mik D.
Published: December 2007

Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E1 analogue, is commonly administered intravaginally for cervical ripening and induction of labor. There is uncertainty regarding the correct dose because of the need to divide the tablets, and there is difficulty in removing the product when there is an adverse event. A proprietary hydrogel polymer containing a removable controlled‐release reservoir dose of misoprostol is being developed for vaginal administration (misoprostol vaginal insert) to address these drawbacks while maintaining efficacy. This study investigated the pharmacokinetic profiles of these vaginal inserts and orally administered misoprostol. Twelve nonpregnant women received 100‐, 200‐, and 400‐μg misoprostol vaginal inserts and separately received an oral dose of 200 μg of misoprostol. Values for area under the plasma concentration versus time curve, from time 0 to the last measurable concentration, were dose proportional with 481, 1026, and 2191 pgṁh/mL for the 100‐, 200‐, and 400‐μg misoprostol vaginal inserts, respectively. Maximum plasma concentrations were 33.1, 73.4, and 144 pg/mL for the 100‐, 200‐, and 400‐μg misoprostol vaginal inserts, compared with 609 pg/mL for the 200 μg of oral misoprostol. After administration of the insert, plasma misoprostol acid levels increased gradually with time of the maximum measured plasma concentration at 5 to 9 hours. Following removal of the insert, misoprostol acid was eliminated rapidly from the systemic circulation with a mean half‐life <1 hour.
Factors Predicting Community College Faculty Satisfaction with Instructional Autonomy
Authors: Kim Dongbin , Twombly Susan , Wolf-Wendel Lisa
Published: December 2007

In light of growing speculation that the autonomy of community college faculty members is eroding, this study draws on the 2004 National Study of Postsecondary Faculty to explore the institutional and personal variables that predict faculty satisfaction with authority to make decisions about content and methods in instructional activities. Results for full-time and part-time faculty members at community colleges are compared, as are the perceptions of community college faculty members with the perceptions of faculty members at 4-year institutions.
Remediation in the Community College
Authors: Levin Henry M. , Calcagno Juan Carlos
Published: December 2007

Remediation is the most common approach to preparing students academically and socially during their early stages of college. However, despite its profound importance and its significant costs, there is very little rigorous research analyzing its effectiveness. The goal of this article is to provide a conceptual framework for the evaluation of remedial education programs. Based on previous literature, we review a list of ingredients for successful interventions, present a number of approaches to remediation that make use of these ingredients, discuss alternative research designs for systematic evaluations, and enumerate basic data requirements.
Preparation for Midskilled Work and Continuous Learning in Nine Community College Occupational Programs
Authors: Torraco Richard J.
Published: December 2007

This study examines student learning experiences in nine occupational education programs at two Midwestern community colleges. Interviews with 39 program graduates and 10 of their supervisors provided information about the features of the occupational programs that were most beneficial for job preparation, those that were least beneficial for job preparation, and the extent to which the occupational programs prepared students to keep learning on their own after graduation.
The Availability, Prospects, and Fiscal Potential of On-Campus Housing at Rural Community Colleges
Authors: Moeck Pat G. , Katsinas Stephen G. , Hardy David E. , Bush V. Barbara
Published: December 2007

Many rural community colleges have long provided on-campus housing. This article profiles the availability of housing at rural community colleges in 2001—2002 and 2005—2006, examines the factors that will continue to make on-campus housing an important service at rural institutions, and draws on 2005—2006 data from the Institutional Characteristics survey of the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System to analyze the potential importance of housing as a source of revenues for rural community colleges.
A Cyberfeminist Utopia?
Authors: Lagesen Vivian Anette
Published: December 2007

The low and shrinking numbers of women in higher computer science education is a well-known problem in most Western countries. The dominant Western perception of the relationship between gender and computer science codes the latter as “masculine,” and the low number of women is seen at least partly as an effect of that coding. Malaysia represents a different case. There are large numbers of women in computer science, and computer science is not perceived as “masculine.” Rather, it is deemed as providing suitable jobs and good careers for women. This reflects an understanding of gender where femininities are constructed by association to office work, commonly recognized as a woman-friendly space because it is seen as more safe and protected than, for example, construction sites and factories. The findings suggest that gender and computer science may be more diversely coproduced than commonly believed in Western research.
Out of My Viewfinder, Yet in the Picture
Authors: Johnson Ericka Sue
Published: December 2007

This research examines the integration of medical simulators into medical education. Training on a haptic-enabled surgery simulator has been observed with an eye to the context of the medical apprenticeship. Videotape of simulations and ethnographic observations at the simulator center are analyzed using the theoretical tools of legitimate peripheral practice and identity construction. In doing so, it becomes apparent that simulations are much more than just a forum for the transfer of specific medical skills. Although they may be designed to facilitate discrete aspects of surgical practice, when in use, the simulators are surrounded by the rich and varied social interactions that make up the medical apprenticeship. These social aspects contribute to the creation of medical practices out of simulator practices, so that working on the simulator can still be experienced as part of the situated learning otherwise conducted during the internship (clinical clerkship) of medical training.
Interactive Technology Assessment in the Real World
Authors: Marris Claire , Joly Pierre-Benoit , Rip Arie
Published: December 2007

Participatory Technology Assessment (pTA) initiatives have usually been analyzed as if they existed in a social and political vacuum. This article analyzes the linkages that occur, in both directions, between the microcosm set up by a pTA exercise and the real world outside. This dual-dynamics perspective leads to a new way of understanding the function and significance of pTA initiatives. Rather than viewing them as a means to create the ideal conditions for real public debate, they are viewed here as an additional public arena in which sociotechnical controversies are played out. This perspective is developed from the analysis of an interactive technology assessment exercise conducted by the French National Institute for Agricultural Research, on the topic of genetically modified vines.
Chemical Sunset
Authors: Kim Eun-Sung
Published: December 2007

This article provides a theoretical policy-making model of chemical sunset that gradually substitutes green alternatives for persistent toxic substances within a finite timeframe. The technological inflexibility of these substances is a tough obstacle to a chemical sunset, because a chemical sunset seeks to ultimately stop, within a short period of time, the risky businesses of these substances that are highly entrenched into our society. In wrestling with this obstacle, the intelligent precautionary “polluter pays” principle integrates three policy tools: a “precautionary `polluter pays' principle,” “intelligent trial and error,” and democratic “regulatory negotiation.” It is designed to promote technological pluralism and strong democracy, as well as to create either trust or mutual adjustment among relevant groups.
Insights from six blind Australian women
Authors: Gentle Frances
Published: December 2007

This article presents information from an oral history research project on the lives of six senior congenitally blind Australian women, each of whom has contributed in various important ways to contemporary Australian society. The article provides a discussion of: (a) ways in which the women perceive themselves, their family and community connections throughout their life spans; and (b) the important contributions they have made during their lives to date.
Combining verbal information and a tactile guidance surface: the most efficient way to guide people with visual impairment in transport stations?
Authors: Marin-Lamellet Claude , Aymond Philippe
Published: December 2007

This article reports on an experiment conducted in a complex underground station with 33 participants (13 blind and 20 partially sighted) who used an infrared verbal guidance system in combination with a tactile guidance surface system and 32 participants (14 blind and 18 partially sighted) who used an infrared verbal guidance system alone. Performance of the participants was assessed by the time taken to complete the trip and the number of pauses they made. Feedback from the participants was also recorded. The results showed that the use of the two guidance devices together led to a decrease in the time needed to complete the trip and reduced the difficulties of using the verbal guidance system. The participants reported their satisfaction when using the two devices and highlighted the necessity of avoiding cognitive overload in the design of orientation systems.
Communication in the early stage of language development in children with CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Peltokorpi Sini , Huttunen Kerttu
Published: December 2007

CHARGE syndrome is characterized by multiple physical abnormalities, and impaired vision and hearing. In this pilot study, communication in the early stage of language development in three one- to eight-year-old children with CHARGE syndrome was explored using video recorded free-play interaction sessions and a parental questionnaire. The children mainly used gestures, but also vocalization and some signs. According to methods based on the Tait Video Analysis (2003) and the Communicative Intention Inventory (Coggins and Carpenter, 1981), the children used shared attention with their mothers most of the time, with initiations comprising almost half of all their communicative expressions. Intentional communication covered 15 to 18 per cent of the communicative acts. Suggestions for how individual characteristics of communication can be used in parental guidance are presented in the discussion.
Safeguarding the needs of children with a visual impairment in non-VI special schools
Authors: Porter Jill , Lacey Penny
Published: December 2007

This article presents research investigating the match of children's needs against provision in the context of the increasing use of non-VI designated and non-specialist forms of provision. The data suggest that despite a lack of access to training, either through award bearing or long courses, teachers' confidence and feelings of competence may be quite high (although not as high as for other disability areas). Teachers' levels of confidence in relation to different aspects of the teaching task are also consistent with limited knowledge of the implications of a visual impairment on providing children with appropriate learning opportunities. Given current legislation within the UK with respect to Disability Discrimination it may be timely for local authorities to consider more strategically the placing of children and their access to staff with specialist training.
Patient profile and management in advanced glaucoma
Authors: Wallace Elizabeth Jane , Paterson Helen , Miller Shirley , Sinclair Anne , Sanders Roshini , Hinds Alison
Published: December 2007

Purpose: to study patient characteristics and management profile in advanced glaucoma. Method: A retrospective study of 87 case notes of patients registered blind due to glaucoma, and cross-sectional interview of 29 patients. Results: advanced glaucoma at presentation was documented in 43 cases (49%). Insufficient optometry assessment was significantly associated with advanced disease (p = 0.0339). Normal tension glaucoma patients were significantly more likely to present with advanced disease compared to other types of glaucoma (p = 0.0034). Poor compliance with medication was significantly higher in those with hearing loss (p = 0.0168). Patients with advanced field defect at presentation and those with poor compliance had significantly higher social deprivation scores compared to others on the blind register (p < 0.0001). Nine (10%) patients had partial registration before full registration and 29 (33%) patients had late registration. Of the 29 patients interviewed, 20 (69%) did not demonstrate basic knowledge regarding their disease or its management; nor had they received written information on glaucoma or instructions on drop technique. Conclusion: Special care pathways are required in advanced glaucoma taking into account co-existent morbidity, disease education and compliance.
Flecainide for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain: a Phase II trial
Authors: von Gunten Charles F. , Eappen Sarah , Cleary James Francis , Taylor Samuel G. , Moots Paul , Regevik Nina , Cleeland Charles , Cella David
Published: December 2007

Background : Management of neuropathic pain is challenging. Medications that interfere with sodium channel transport, such as lidocaine, mexilitene and flecainide, are promising as analgesics.Objective : In a general population of patients with a working diagnosis of neuropathic pain, whether if flecainide produces enough of an improvement in pain to warrant further clinical study is determined.Design : Phase I/II prospective exploratory clinical trial. Eligible patients were observed for week 1, then 50 mg flecainide was administered twice daily for week 2 and then administered 100 mg twice daily for week 3.Setting/ Subjects : Multi-institutional members of the Eastern Co-operative Oncology Group. Patients had neuropathic pain diagnosed by their oncologists as defined by the International Association for the Study of Pain and a diagnosis of cancer or AIDS.Measurements : The Wisconsin Brief Pain Inventory was used. The primary endpoint was a decrease of 3 points (0—10 numerical scale) or a decrease of 50% in the worst pain rating at either day 15 or day 22 relative to the average of days 1 and 8 ratings.Results : Nineteen patients were registered for the study. Four patients were ineligible. Of the remaining 15, one was unevaluable due to incomplete pain rating. Four out of 14 patients had an average drop of 5 points or 53% in their worst pain ratings on a 0—10 numerical scale of pain. No patients withdrew from study because of toxicity. There were no life-threatening or lethal toxicities. All patients were alive at the time of the analysis.Conclusions : Flecainide produced a 30% response rate. Response in this study was defined to be highly relevant and clinically significant reduction in pain. The drug merits study in a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Palliative Medicine 2007;21 : 667—672
Supportive and palliative care needs of families of children with life-threatening illnesses in Western Australia: evidence to guide the development of a palliative care service
Authors: Monterosso Leanne , Kristjanson Linda J. , Aoun Samar , Phillips Marianne B.
Published: December 2007

Objective: To obtain feedback from families of children receiving palliative and supportive care about their care needs in hospital and in community settings.Design: A two-phase combined quantitative and qualitative study. Setting: Western Australia.Participants: 134 parents and 20 service providers.Results: Analysis indicated the concept of palliative care is poorly understood by health professionals and by parents. Many families are affected emotionally, financially and physically by the burden of caring for children with life threatening or chronic conditions requiring complex care at home. Parents indicated the need for clear and honest information about their child's condition and prognosis throughout the trajectory of illness and perceived this had been lacking. Families required financial and practical assistance with providing care from their children at home. Parents also wanted more practical resources and information to assist with the management of their child's nutrition and pain, as well as support for their other children. The level of respite (in home and residential) was perceived to be insufficient and inequitable. Parents also required access to, and advice from, multidisciplinary health professionals when caring for their child at home. There was a perceived lack of coordination between community services and the hospital.Conclusion: Education of health professionals and parents regarding the concepts and introduction of palliative and supportive care is required. Care for children and their families should be coordinated by a multidisciplinary team in consultation with children and their families, and linked and integrated with the treating hospital in collaboration with community services. More inclusive criteria are required for community services including practical aids and respite care. Palliative Medicine 2007; 21 : 689—696
Urbanization and place of death for the elderly: a 10-year population-based study
Authors: Lin Herng-Ching , Lin Yen-Ju , Liu Tsai-Ching , Chen Chin-Shyan , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: December 2007

Objectives : To explore the association between the place of death and the level of urbanization within the communities where the elderly were residing at the time of their death.Methods : A retrospective, population-based, cross-sectional study set in Taiwan, involving a total of 697 814 eligible deaths occurred between 1995 and 2004, among elderly people (aged 65 years or above). Results : After adjusting for other factors, the multilevel logistic regression analyses showed that home death was associated with lower levels of urbanization; as compared with participants living in the highest urbanization level (level 1), the respective adjusted odds of dying at home were 1.600, 2.769, 3.774, 4.481, 4.003 and 4.717 times for those living in the areas from the second highest to the lowest urbanization levels (levels 2—7). Conclusions : After adjusting for other socio-demographic, clinical and healthcare factors, the place of death has a significant association with the level of urbanization among the elderly. Palliative Medicine 2007; 21 : 705—711
Obstacles to the delivery of primary palliative care as perceived by GPs
Authors: Groot Marieke M. , Vernooij-Dassen Myrra J. F. J. , Verhagen Stans C. A. , Crul Ben J. P. , Grol Richard P. T. M.
Published: December 2007

Introduction: In order to facilitate GPs in their work and increase the possibilities for patients to remain at home, it is important to identify the obstacles which hinder the delivery of primary palliative care. From previous research we learned about some of the problems experienced by GPs. In this survey we aimed to identify the prevalence of such problems in providing palliative care and its determinants.Methods: The prevalence of obstacles and its determinants were identified by a questionnaire to 320 GPs in three regions of the Netherlands. Obstacles were grouped as follows: communication, organisation & co-ordination of care, knowledge & expertise, integrated care, time for relatives. The potential determinants were GP characteristics and expertise development activities.Results: The response rate was 62.3%. GPs experienced considerable obstacles in all aspects of palliative care. The most prevalent were: problems with bureaucratic procedures (83.9%), the time necessary to arrange home care technology (61.1%) and the difficulties accompanied with the wish or necessity to obtain extra care (56.3%). In general, more years of GP experience and the participation in (multidisciplinary) case discussions were associated with less perceived obstacles.Discussion: Based on the results of our survey policymakers and practitioners can plan and set priorities in handling the obstacles. There is a high necessity of firstly overcoming the barriers within organisation and coordination of care. Furthermore, our study can help in choosing the (additional) expertise needed in the future and in the realisation of the preferred expertise advancement activities. Palliative Medicine 2007;21 : 697—703
Assessing physical functioning: a systematic review of quality of life measures developed for use in palliative care
Authors: Jordhoy Marit S. , Inger Ringdal Gerd , Helbostad Jorunn L. , Oldervoll Line , Loge Jon Håvard , Kaasa Stein
Published: December 2007

Background : Physical decline is experienced by all palliative care patients and affects most aspects of life. Physical functioning (PF) is therefore a crucial domain for quality of life (Qol) assessments. The purpose of this study was to review how PF assessments are performed in Qol instruments developed for palliative careMethods : For identification of instruments, Medline searches up to April 2005 were performed using the terms (palliative care OR end of life care OR terminal care) AND quality of life AND (assessment OR instrument OR questionnaire). A total of 1326 hits were screened. Named QoL instruments were extracted from 240 abstracts and 46 relevant reports. Items assessing PF were then identified and classified according to activity domains as described by the WHO International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health.Results : Of 224 different instruments detected, 39 were identified as developed for palliative care. Of these, 11 included original PF assessments. Two were comprehensive performance status measures made for staff assessment, 9 were multidimensional tools including 2—7 PF items. The content and phrasing of items varied considerably. All instruments included some aspects of self-care, whereas the coverage of mobility, domestic, work — and leisure activities was inconsistent.Interpretation : Despite its importance, PF assessment seems to be a minor part of palliative care QoL instruments. Clear definitions and conceptualization of PF are needed, as well as a consensus on relevant aspects to include in improved instruments. Performance scales already developed should be further explored with regard to content, validity and psychometric properties. Palliative Medicine 2007;21 : 673—682
A case report : Akathisia and an unusual symptomatic treatment
Authors: Back Ian , Taubert Mark
Published: December 2007

We present a case of medication-induced akathisia in a 47-year-old woman with metastatic carcinoma of the ovary. Severe pacing and restlessness started after commencing a subcutaneous infusion with cyclizine 150mg, haloperidol 2.5 mg and oxycodone 20 mg. She was also taking levomepromazine and fluoxetine orally at the time. By making changes to her medication, her symptoms resolved gradually. During the time of convalescence, she gained great symptomatic relief from using exercise pedals and it allowed her to go about usual everyday activities, such as eating and reading, while continuously treading the pedals. Palliative Medicine 2007;21 : 713—715
Official certification of doctors working in palliative medicine in Europe: data from an EAPC study in 52 European countries
Authors: Centeno Carlos , Noguera Antonio , Lynch Thomas , Clark David
Published: December 2007

There is an increasing move to recognize palliative medicine as an area of certificated specialization. Drawing on a survey of palliative care provision in the World Health Organization European region, an overview of palliative care specialization and accreditation practices was presented. Within an international survey to key experts in palliative care carried out in 2005, conducted in 52 countries, a question about the certification for palliative care professionals was included. Information was obtained for 43 of the 52 countries surveyed and all 43 countries (83%) provided data on certification. Palliative medicine has specialty status in just two European countries: Ireland and the UK. In five countries it is considered as a sub-specialty, for which a second certification is required: Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Germany and, recently, France. Some 10 other countries have started the process of certification for palliative medicine, in all cases opting for sub-specialty status that follows full recognition in an established specialty. Across countries there is disparity in the certification criteria followed and considerable variability in the demands that are made in order to achieve certification. Further studies are needed to focus in depth on palliative medicine certification and accreditation across Europe. Establishing uniform approaches to certification for palliative medicine in different European countries will contribute to wider take-up of specialty status and the improved recognition of palliative care as a discipline. Palliative Medicine 2007;21 : 683—687
Philosophy and Its Place in the Space of Western Spirituality: An Apology
Authors: Toth Imre
Published: December 2007

Philosophy has never been and never will be a science. Nevertheless it is a body of knowledge, a field of autonomous being and the subject’s ontic foundation as knowledge of itself. This paper provides an analysis of the nature of philosophy as an autonomous form of Western spirit during its historical development. The dialectic between reason, knowledge and freedom is studied through multiple historical examples from the Antiquity to modern times.
The Reinvention of the Couple
Authors: Kristeva Julia
Published: December 2007

This paper traces back on a personal tone a provocative evocation of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. The author considers existentialism as a laboratory of existence that influenced a generation's manner of living and writing and made one's existential desires into historical and political acts. Its most representative mode of expression, literature, was as an indicator of the presence of the private throughout the public world and time. In this view, de Beauvoir's presence is approached both from the perspective of her understanding of the female, and from the particular kind of couple she formed with Sartre.;
What do Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir Have to Say to Us Today?
Authors: Noudelmann François
Published: December 2007

Sartre's thought and practice cannot be separated from the experience of the Second World War. Emerging from the war, Sartre formed the idea that the human comes forth out of the subhuman. This paper analyses aspects of Sartre's humanism from the point of view of his political commitment, and presents Sartre's work as an antidote to contemporary economic and scientific determinism. Sartre credit was always given to the growth of freedom in action out of the most unexpected subjectivization. He firmly supported the founding idea of democracy – the power of everyman – and projected the intellectual's mission into each of us once we try to rethink critically our actions in the light of human purposes.
Sartre in His Fraternity
Authors: Depestre René
Published: December 2007

The author recalls his encounters with Jean-Paul Sartre in Cuba and Moscow, during the 1960s. Sarte?s views on Castro, the Cuban and Russian revolutions, as well as Sartre's behaviours in the different countries he visited, are lively evoked in this short first-hand portrait.
Beyond a Division: Giulio Preti and the Dispute between Analytic and Continental Philosophy
Authors: Peruzzi Alberto
Published: December 2007

This paper discusses the positions of Italian philosopher Giulio Preti (1911-1972) in relation to the quarrel between Analytic and Continental philosophy. Preti?s thought appears as a systematic thought permitting to overcome, through his logical, epistemological and linguistic reflection, the divide between these two approaches. The different features of his philosophy are analyzed here in detail and compared to the main theoretical assumptions of Analytic and Continental philosophy.
Bridging Worlds and Languages
Authors: Cravetto Maria Letizia
Published: December 2007

The author summarizes here the main theme of the papers gathered in the second part of this issue. It describes the dual identities they deal with (linguistic identities,métissages, masked exiles and social intermingling) and places them in the context of an ongoing seminar work carried out at the Maison des sciences de l’homme in Paris.
An Interview with Nurith Aviv
Authors: Cravetto Maria Letizia
Published: December 2007

This is an exclusive interview with the film-maker Nurith Aviv. Her last film Misafa Lesafa, on the plural linguistic identity in Israel, is linked to her former work and analysed through its cultural background, its symbolic dimension and its technical realization.
Exiles Masked, Masks of Exile
Authors: Pérez Paule
Published: December 2007

This paper traces back the psychological effects of the ‘masked exile’ of a Jewish Tunisian family settled in France. The author provides a rich analysis of a sudden and permanent change of nationality, country, language, urban bustle and family environment, following the ‘tunisification of Tunisia’ launched by President Bourguiba at the end of the 1950s. A comparison with the situation of later migrant workers from the Maghreb countries is sketched in the second part of this paper.
'Without the Warmth of Your Own Image'
Authors: Sinapi Michèle
Published: December 2007

This paper describes the cultural circumstances of the ‘crisis of the working-class suburbs’ that shattered France at the end of 2005. The self-representation of the young suburban bands, their need for social differentiation, the legitimacy of their own social existence are presented as factors of the unprecedented social rebellion known by France.
Abdominal bloating and irritable bowel syndrome like symptoms following microinstillation inhalation exposure to chemical warfare nerve agent VX in guinea pigs
Authors: Katos Alexandre M. , Conti Michele L. , Moran Theodore S. , Gordon Richard K. , Doctor Bhupendra P. , Sciuto Alfred M. , Nambiar Madhusoodana P.
Published: December 2007

While assessing the methylphosphonothioic acid S-(2-(bis(1-methylethyl)amino)ethyl)O-ethyl ester (VX) induced respiratory toxicity and evaluating therapeutics against lung injury, we observed that the animals were experiencing abnormal swelling in the abdominal area. Nerve agent has been known to increase salivary, nasal and gastrointestinal secretion and cause diarrhea. This study was initiated to investigate the effect of VX on the gastrointestinal tract (GI) since abdominal pathology may affect breathing and contribute to the on going respiratory toxicity. The mid-abdominal diameter and the size of the lower left abdomen was measured before and after 27.3 mg/m3 VX exposure by microinstillation and at 30min intervals up to 2h post-VX exposure. Both VX and saline exposed animals exhibited a decrease in circumference of the upper abdomen, although the decrease was slightly higher in VX-exposed animals up to 1 h. The waist diameter increased slightly in VX-exposed animals from 60 to 90min post-VX exposure but was similar to saline controls. The lower left abdomen near to the cecum, 6 cm below and 2 cm to the right of the end of the sternum, showed an increase in size at 30—60 min that was significantly increased at 90—120 min post-VX exposure. In addition, VX-exposed animals showed loose fecal matter compared to controls. Necropsy at 24 h showed an increased small intestine twisting motility in VX-exposed animals. Body tissue AChE assay showed high inhibition in the esophagus and intestine in VX-exposed animals indicating that a significant amount of the agent is localized to the GI following microinstillation exposure. These results suggest that microinstillation inhalation VX exposure induces gastrointestinal disturbances similar to that of irritable bowel syndrome and bloating.
JP-8 jet fuel exposure rapidly induces high levels of IL-10 and PGE2 secretion and is correlated with loss of immune function
Authors: Harris David T. , Sakiestewa Debbie , Titone Dominic , Witten Mark
Published: December 2007

The US Air Force has implemented the widespread use of JP-8 jet fuel in its operations, although a thorough understanding of its potential effects upon exposed personnel is unclear. Previous work has demonstrated that JP-8 exposure is immunosuppressive. In the present study, the potential mechanisms for the effects of JP-8 exposure on the immune system were investigated. Exposure of mice to JP-8 for 1 h/day resulted in immediate secretion of two immunosuppressive agents; namely, interleukin-10 (IL-10) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). JP-8 exposure rapidly induced a persistently high level of serum IL-10 and PGE2 at an exposure concentration of 1000 mg/m3. IL-10 levels peaked at 2h post-JP-8 exposure and then stabilized at significantly elevated serum levels, while PGE2 levels peaked after 2—3 days of exposure and then stabilized. Elevated IL-10 and PGE2 levels may at least partially explain the effects of JP-8 exposure on immune function. Elevated IL-10 and PGE2 levels, however, cannot explain all of the effects due to JP-8 exposure (e.g., decreased organ weights and decreased viable immune cells), as treatment with a PGE2 inhibitor did not completely reverse the immunosuppressive effects of jet fuel exposure. Thus, low concentration JP-8 jet fuel exposures have significant effects on the immune system, which can be partially explained by the secretion of immunosuppressive modulators, which are cumulative over time.
The Historical Influence of Computer Use at Work on Income in the Late Twentieth Century
Authors: Peacock Sylvia E.
Published: December 2007

This article offers information on historical shifts of socioeconomic positions caused by the diffusion of computers into the labor market. An account of the effects of using computers at work on gross monthly wages is offered, capturing significant changes over time within two decades (1979 to 1999). Empirical analyses are based on four large German labor market censuses. Results sustain the theoretical notion that early adopters receive a risk premium for using information technology, supporting the modernization hypothesis. Positive effects of computer training on income levels are found. Large gender income gaps are substantiated. Over time, income premiums for workers in the information segment increase. Indications for the downscaling of computerized jobs in the information segment are detected.
Deterrence and Digital Piracy
Authors: Wolfe Scott E. , Higgins George E. , Marcum Catherine D.
Published: December 2007

Digital piracy has been shown to be an emerging societal problem. However, research has demonstrated limited techniques that effectively combat digital piracy. The purpose of the present study is to examine the utility of computer viruses in deterring digital piracy. The findings from responses to a survey of college students revealed that fear of computer viruses may influence respondents' intentions to engage in digital piracy. The policy implications of this finding are discussed.
Emoticons and Online Message Interpretation
Authors: Derks Daantje , Bos Arjan E. R. , von Grumbkow Jasper
Published: December 2007

The present study experimentally examines the impact of emoticons on message interpretation among secondary school students ( N = 105). Furthermore, perceived motives for emoticon use are examined. Results show that emoticons do have an impact on message interpretation. Emoticons are useful in strengthening the intensity of a verbal message. Furthermore, it is possible to create ambiguity and express sarcasm online by varying the valence of the emoticon and the valence of the message. Overall, the authors conclude that to a large extent, emoticons serve the same functions as actual nonverbal behavior.
Account Space: How Accountability Requirements Shape Nonprofit Practice
Authors: Benjamin Lehn M.
Published: December 2007

Improving nonprofit accountability is one of the most important issues facing the sector. Improving nonprofit accountability in ways that are attentive to what we might consider unique and valuable about how nonprofits address public problems is the challenge at hand. This article presents a framework for examining the consequences of accountability systems for nonprofit practice. Drawing on empirical findings from three case studies and early sociological work on accounts, the framework considers four questions (i.e., When do organizations give accounts? What is the purpose of the account? When are those accounts accepted or rejected by important stakeholders? And with what consequence?) but makes a distinction between a verification and explanatory accountability process. By making this distinction and clarifying the relationship between these two accountability processes, the proposed framework can be used to identify conflicts between accountability systems and nonprofit practice and to understand how efforts to ensure accountability can spur a change in nonprofit practice, change stakeholder expectations for nonprofits or leave both intact.
Government Funding and Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Luksetich William
Published: December 2007

In this article, the author tests whether there is a simultaneous relationship between the number of nonprofits and government funding of nonprofit activity and whether the fundraising efforts of nonprofits are the means by which nonprofits affect the grants available to them. Estimates of the model are consistent with the proposition that government grants and contracts (program revenues) received by nonprofits are strong determinants of the number of nonprofits in a state. They lend support to the argument that nonprofit fundraising activities have an independent effect on the availability of the grants and contracts; however, although the number of nonprofit organizations per state has a similar effect on grants to nonprofits, they do not have an effect on the contacts they receive.
Art for Art's Sake? An Examination of Motives for Arts Performance Attendance
Authors: Swanson Scott R. , Davis J. Charlene , Yushan Zhao
Published: December 2007

Given finite amounts of time for leisure activities and a consuming public that continues to feel time pressured, what drives attendance at arts performances? This study builds on existing arts research and its use of demographic characteristics by considering the psychological motives of theater patrons. Six potential motives of performing arts attendees are identified, and their relationship with demographic characteristics and behavioral outcomes are assessed. Data were obtained from a midwestern U.S. performing arts center; the sample was drawn from spectators at three different performances. Analysis of variance and t- test results indicate significant relationships between certain motivations and patronage variables such as years of attendance, number of performances attended, and time frame for planning to attend future events. Similarly, significant differences in motivation were found by gender, age, income, and education level, suggesting that attendance could be enhanced by tailoring motive specific messages to each of these groups.
Diaspora Philanthropy in an At-Risk Society: The Case of Coptic Orphans in Egypt
Authors: Brinkerhoff Jennifer M.
Published: December 2007

This article seeks to answer two questions: How can the potential gains from diaspora philanthropy be extended beyond individual households and sustained beyond one generation? And how can these gains be mobilized for poverty alleviation, justice, and development, especially in at-risk countries? Following reviews of potential diaspora contributions and the parameters of at-risk societies, the case of Coptic Orphans is presented. Coptic Orphans provides a model for channeling remittances to meet the subsistence and development needs of the poorest of the poor and sustaining these contributions beyond the first generation. It illustrates how diaspora organizations can effectively navigate the social and legal challenges of operating in an at-risk society. Finally, it suggests that diaspora organizations may increasingly overcome voluntary failures to become a significant sector in the international development arena.
Try a little tenderness
Authors: Hagerty Bill
Published: December 2007

Since walking away from presenting the lunchtime news on BBC1 some 15 months ago, she has watched with the concern of a caring mother for her offspring as the Corporation lurched from one calamity to another. She has monitored, too, what she sees as the increasing ageism of British television, the downward spiral of journalistic standards, and the shabby treatment of young professionals setting out along medialand’s streets of adventure. But she has kept such thoughts largely to herself. Now she has agreed to talk, highly articulately, and with what sounds like regret rather than anger, about the problems of an industry into which she first stumbled 33 years ago. “It used to be that people would give their eye-teeth to work for the BBC,” she says. “And the standards were very high and the level of intelligence of the people who were commissioning editors or controllers of the channels was very high. And it wasn’t just intelligence – they cared about the people who worked for them. I think the managerial skills of these highly intelligent young people who run the BBC now are very poor. I can tell you there is an atmosphere of fear, based on the fact that people have very short contracts, and the youngsters are pushed and pushed and pushed. You no longer see people smiling when they work on news programmes.” And she believes complaints about the “dumbing down” of British TV are justified – “I must sound very old fashioned when I use the word vulgarity, but we are constantly seeing people on screen who are of low intelligence and low education and whose views on everything seem to be made very important. As for ageism, everybody in our society should be presented on screen. How many presenters do you know on television who are over the age of 60? …There are more than 16 million people in this country over the age of 55 and they are poorly represented… I don’t think the BBC is intent on making programmes for them.”
Sex, lies and audio tape
Authors: Mutch Thembi
Published: December 2007

Commission to look into the trafficking of children out of orphanages and into sex work in Thailand for a radio programme, Thembi Mutch embarks on a hazardous adventure – a friend working with Keren refugees on the Thai-Burma border tells her, “The police are as much a part of the problem as the armed pimps who control the kids and the traffickers. You will be taking bodyguards, won’t you?” The story moves to Cambodia and she discovers, “Lying is huge issue. When I reach Phnom Penh I am lying more on a daily basis than I ever have in my life: about my name, my job, my hotel, my nationality and what I’m doing. This is for two reasons: Cambodia’s oral culture is steeped in suspicion, rumours, smoke and mirrors. The legacy of the Khmer Rouge and grassing people up has left deep residual scars: the preceding civil war and the subsequent war with Vietnam have done nothing to engender trust and a community spirit. It makes me realise I can’t afford to let even the hotel staff know what I am doing. The other reason for all my lying is that the few people who do know about my project have advised strongly against being open, particularly in Cambodia, where it costs only $50 to hire a hit man and get rid of troublemakers.” Because of intimidation and the reluctance of those involved to tell the truth, the project ultimately fails – but Mutch is now hoping to develop the idea for television.
Feral? Why Blair wasn't all wrong
Authors: Cole John
Published: December 2007

Former long-serving political editor of the BBC, Cole suggests that Blair’s attach on the British media – made in a speech as he prepared to vacate 10 Downing Street – was to a certain extent justified. “The recent burst of breast-beating about the loss of trust in the media has mostly been concentrated on broadcasting,” writes Cole. “But when you consider how many newspaper ‘scoops’ are not followed up by other papers, or even by the originator of the story, how many are never heard of again, you wonder whether trust in the printed word is being similarly eroded. Much of the blame for all this is put down to ‘spin’. Certainly the public relations trade, in which I include focus groups and public opinion polls, and not only in politics, but in business, the entertainment industry, and even charities, has gained an unenviable reputation for perverting the truth on behalf of its clients. This is where Tony Blair’s criticism of media obsession with ‘impact’ rings bells. Non-governmental organisation, charities, university researchers have all learned that the first sentence of their press release must contain a story. Sometime it is hyped. When I was news editor and deputy editor of The Guardian, we were very reluctant to print a story that claimed a forthcoming cure for cancer, lest it raised false hopes in patients and their families. Nowadays, researchers seem to claim cures for everything down to in-growing toenails, and gain publicity for them… The media do not operate in a vacuum. If we wonder why life is more strident today, we must look at others, including politicians, but also at ourselves. We have some kind of duty to truth, so far as we can discover what the truth is. But are we taking on the malignant forces that impede the search for truth as often as we ought?”
Training: a matter of degrees
Authors: Bull Andy
Published: December 2007

Bull, a careers consultant and author of the NCTJ Essential Guide to Careers in Journalism, belies degrees in media studies not properly equip students for a career in journalism and observes: I should say that I have absolutely no problem with media studies degrees as long as it is made clear to those who embark on one that it will probably not lead to a job as a journalist. I have no problem with media studies, just as I would have no problem with an alternative course to medicine called medical studies, in which students learn all about medical history and models of health provision but don’t actually get to treat patients. Where I would have a problem is if a graduate of such a course assured me he could take my appendix out, or set my broken leg in plaster. I also have a problem with degrees that are labelled journalism but which are not vocational, and which do not equip graduates with a good chance of gaining a job in the trade.” Bull continues: “There are those who will say I am being far too harsh on media studies degrees – that the best of them turn out graduates who go on to have sparkling careers in the media. I am sure this is true. Nevertheless, it is my experience that most editors do not trust such degrees and much prefer recruiting from industry-accredited courses.”