bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Warp Break Detection in Jacquard Weaving Using Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems: Effect of Yarn Type
Authors: Seyam Abdel-Fattah M. , Jin Ho Lee  , Hodge George , Oxenham William , Grant Eddie
Published: August 2008

This paper reports a study aimed at detecting warp breaks in terms of yarn type using a Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) accelerometer based detection system, which has been described in earlier publications. The MEMS accelerometers were mounted on harness cords of a Jacquard tie. MEMS output acceleration signals were analyzed. The signals were acquired while warp ends were up and at the moment of intentional break with a pair of sharp scissors simulating missing warp ends. The results indicated that MEMS acceleration signals at intentional breaks for continuous filament from standard and high strength fibers could be detected. The break signals of cotton and cotton/polyester spun yarns were undetectable.
“Did They Really Say That?”
Authors: Stygall Gail
Published: August 2008

This article analyzes the vulnerabilities of certain women in custodial interrogations in the United States through legal, linguistic, and discourse analysis. At special risk are the impoverished or working class, the ill educated or illiterate, those with disabilities, or those who are nonnative speakers of English. Placing custodial interrogation into its U.S. legal setting, the study examines linguistic and discourse aspects of Miranda-related decisions and confessions. Drawing on data from the 1990s “Wenatchee Sex Ring” investigation and trials, the study examines the language of four women arrested and prosecuted in the Wenatchee cases. The analysis addresses discourse-level aspects of the data, including topic management and threats during the interrogation; the production of narratives as well as statements of location, result, and duration; and the sexual language used in the confessions. The article concludes that discourse analysis may provide an additional check on rogue interrogations of vulnerable people and once again calls for consistent recording of custodial interrogations in the United States.
A clinical evaluation of the Dideco Kids D100 neonatal oxygenatora
Authors: Lawson DS , Smigla GR , McRobb CM , Walczak R , Kaemmer D , Shearer IR , Lodge A , Jaggers J
Published: August 2008

In August 2006, Duke University Perfusion Services had the opportunity to be the first institution in the United States to clinically evaluate the Dideco D100 Neonatal Oxygenator. The device was used on six pediatric patients to facilitate correction or palliation of their cardiac defects, which included two arterial switch operations, two truncus arteriosus repairs, one stage 1 Norwood and one repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous return. The average patient weight was 3.1 kg. The average cardiopulmonary bypass(CPB) time was 135 minutes and the average cross-clamp time was 61 minutes. Arterial and venous blood gasses were drawn and used to calculate oxygen transfer. The average oxygen transfer was 14.8 ± 10.3 ml/O2/min. The Dideco D100 Oxygenator is the first oxygenation device designed specifically for neonates. The Dideco D100 is a microporous hollow-fiber device. It has a static priming volume of 31 ml and a maximum rated flow of 700 ml/min. The integral hard-shell venous reservoir has a minimum operating level of 10 ml and a reservoir capacity of 500 ml. For this evaluation, the Dideco Kids D100 Neonatal Oxygenator performed adequately on patients weighing up to 5 kg. This device provides an excellent first step towards offering very small children appropriate circuitry without having to sacrifice safety or performance.
A hyperosmolar-colloidal additive to the CPB-priming solution reduces fluid load and fluid extravasation during tepid CPB
Authors: Kvalheim V , Farstad M , Haugen O , Brekke H , Mongstad A , Nygreen E , Husby P
Published: August 2008

Cardiopulmonary bypass(CPB) is associated with fluid overload. We hypothesized that fluid gain during CPB could be reduced by substituting parts of a crystalloid prime with 7.2% hypertonic saline and 6% poly(O-2-hydroxyethyl) starch solution (HyperHaes®). 14 animals were randomized to a control group (Group C) or to Group H. CPB-prime in Group C was Ringer’s solution. In group H, 4 ml/kg of Ringer’s solution was replaced by the hypertonic saline / hydroxyethyl starch solution. After 60 min stabilization, CPB was initiated and continued for 120 min. All animals were allowed drifting of normal temperature (39.0°C) to about 35.0°C. Fluid was added to the CPB circuit as needed to maintain a 300-ml level in the venous reservoir. Blood chemistry, hemodynamic parameters, fluid balance, plasma volume, fluid extravasation rate (FER), tissue water content and acid-base parameters were measured/calculated. Total fluid need during 120 min CPB was reduced by 60% when hypertonic saline/hydroxyethyl starch solution was added to the CPB prime (p<0.01). The reduction was related to a lowered FER. The effect was most pronounced during the first 30 min on CPB, with 0.6 (0.43) (Group H) compared with 1.5 (0.40) ml/kg/min (Group C) (p<0.01). Hemodynamics and laboratory parameters were similar in both groups. Serum concentrations of sodium and chloride increased to maximum levels of 148 (1.5) and 112 (1.6) mmol/l in Group H. To conclude: addition of 7.2% hypertonic saline and 6% poly(O-2-hydroxyethyl) starch solution to crystalloid CPB prime reduces fluid needs and FER during tepid CPB.
Numerical Methods for Reachable Space Generation of Humanoid Robots
Authors: Yisheng Guan  , Yokoi Kazuhito , Xianmin Zhang
Published: August 2008

In view of the importance of workspace to robotic design, motion planning and control, we study humanoid reachable spaces. Due to the large number of degrees of freedom, the complexity and special characteristics of humanoid robots that conventional robots do not possess, it would be very difficult or impractical to use analytical or geometric methods to analyze and obtain humanoid reachable spaces. In this paper, we develop two numerical approaches — the optimization-based method and the Monte Carlo method — to generate the reachable space of a humanoid robot. We first formulate the basic constraints (including kinematic constraint and balance constraint) that a humanoid robot must satisfy in manipulation tasks. We then use optimization techniques to build mathematical models for boundary points by which the reachable boundary is formed. This method gives rise to an approximation of the reachable space with accurate boundary points. On the other hand, the Monte Carlo method is relatively simple and more suitable for the visualization of robotic workspace. To utilize the numerical results by the Monte Carlo method, we propose an approach to build a database. We present the algorithms with these two methods and provide illustrating examples conducted on the humanoid HRP-2.
Effect of drying on leaching testing of treated municipal solid waste incineration APC-residues
Authors: Yuyan Hu  , Hyks Jiri , Astrup Thomas , Christensen Thomas H.
Published: August 2008

Air-pollution-control (APC) residues from waste incinerators are hazardous waste according to European legislation and must be treated prior to landfilling. Batch and column leaching data determine which type of landfill can receive the treated APC-residues. CEN standards are prescribed for the batch and column leaching test; however, these standards do not specify whether or not the residue samples should be dried prior to the leaching testing. Laboratory tests were performed in parallel (dried/nondried) on treated APC-residue samples and evaluated with respect to Cr, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn leaching. The effect of drying of the wet APC-residue samples was particularly dramatic regarding the leaching of Cr. Drying resulted in 10—100 times more Cr leaching in both batch and columns test. Drying also affected the leaching of Cd, Cu and Pb. Initial Cd leaching was up to 100 times higher in column tests with dried APC-residue than in tests with wet residues. The effect of drying appeared to be a combination of decreasing the reduction capacity of the sample (Cr), decreasing pH (Cd, Cu) and in column tests also a wash-out of salts (probably affecting Cd and Pb). If the leaching tests are intended to mimic landfill conditions, the results of this paper suggest that the tests should be done on wet, non-dried residue samples, although this may be less practical than testing dried samples.
Nutrients and heavy metals distribution in thermally treated pig manure
Authors: Kuligowski Ksawery , Poulsen Tjalfe G. , Stoholm Peder , Pind Niels , Laursen Jens
Published: August 2008

Ash from pig manure treated by combustion and thermal gasification was characterized and compared in terms of nutrient, i.e., potassium (K), phosphorus (P) and heavy metal, i.e., cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn) contents. Total nutrient and metal concentrations were measured using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis. Acid (HNO3, H2SO4) and water-extractable concentrations were also measured both in non-classified ash and in selected ash particle size fractions using flame atomic absorption spectrometry and colorimetric spectrometry. Results indicate that ash from gasified manure contained more water-extractable K in comparison with combusted manure whereas the opposite was the case with respect to P. Heavy metals Ni, Cr and Cd were present in higher concentrations in the fine particle size fractions (< 30 µm of particle diameter), whereas K, P, Zn and Cu exhibited higher concentrations in the coarser particle size fractions (> 30 µm).
Structuring Police Discretion
Authors: Carrington Peter J. , Schulenberg Jennifer L.
Published: August 2008

This article examines the impact of the Youth Criminal Justice Act of 2002 on police discretion with apprehended young offenders in Canada. Data for 1986 to 2005 from the Canadian Uniform Crime Reporting Survey are analyzed using an interrupted time series design. The Youth Criminal Justice Act was successful in achieving its objective of reducing youth court referrals by structuring police discretion. It caused a substantial change in the exercise of police discretion with apprehended youth: a substantial decrease in the use of charges and a corresponding increase in the use of alternatives to charging. The substitution of extrajudicial measures for charges occurred in all four regions of Canada and was much greater with minor offenses than with serious youth crime. Possible reasons for the success of the Youth Criminal Justice Act are discussed.
Predicting Public Opinion About Juvenile Waivers
Authors: Jan I-Fang , Ball Jeremy D. , Walsh Anthony
Published: August 2008

The accountability movement of the juvenile justice system in the late 1980s and early 1990s encouraged more punitive practices. Public opinion was strong during this time. The attitudes about the juvenile justice system are a product of individual demographic, cultural, and political characteristics. This study addresses opinions about juvenile waivers—a punitive sanction—examining data from the National Opinion Survey of Crime and Justice in the 1990s. This study analyzes attitudes about juvenile waivers, using multivariate quantitative methods. The results indicate a consistent relationship between the perception of the sentencing goals of the juvenile court (punishment versus rehabilitation) and one's attitudes toward the use of juvenile waivers. Contrary to the generated hypotheses, though, attitudes about juvenile waivers were not consistently dependent on individual demographic, cultural, or political characteristics.
Evaluation of in-vivo animal and in-vitro models for prediction of dermal absorption in man
Authors: Jakasa I , Kezic S
Published: August 2008

Risk assessment of dermal exposure to chemicals requires percutaneous absorption data to link the external exposure to the systemic uptake. The most reliable data on percutaneous absorption are obtained from in-vivo human volunteer studies. In addition to ethical constrains, the conduct of these studies is not feasible for the large number of industrial chemicals in use today. Therefore, there is an increasing need for alternative methods to determine percutaneous absorption such as in-vitro assays and methods performed in vivo in experimental animals. In this article, recent comparative in-vitro and in-vivo studies on percutaneous absorption have been addressed with emphasis on the factors that may affect the predictive value of the in-vitro models. Furthermore, the use of animal models, in particular the rat skin, in prediction of percutaneous absorption in the human skin has been reviewed. In-vitro assays showed to be largely influenced by the experimental circumstances, such as type and thickness of the skin, receptor fluid, and the way in which percutaneous absorption is calculated. Rat skin showed consistently to be more permeable than human skin. However, the difference between human and rat skin does not show a consistent pattern between chemicals hampering prediction of human percutaneous absorption. To increase predictive value of in-vitro and animal models, the influence of experimental factors on the percutaneous absorption should be systematically investigated by comparison with human in-vivo data, resulting in more prescriptive guidelines.
Improving the applicability of (Q)SARs for percutaneous penetration in regulatory risk assessment
Authors: Bouwman T , Cronin MTD , Bessems JGM , van de Sandt JJM
Published: August 2008

The new regulatory framework REACH (Registration, Evaluation, and Authorisation of Chemicals) foresees the use of non-testing approaches, such as read-across, chemical categories, structure–activity relationships (SARs) and quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSARs). Although information on skin absorption data are not a formal requirement under REACH, data on dermal absorption are an integral part of risk assessment of substances/products to which man is predominantly exposed via the dermal route. In this study, we assess the present applicability of publicly available QSARs on skin absorption for risk assessment purposes. We explicitly did not aim to give scientific judgments on individual QSARs. A total of 33 QSARs selected from the public domain were evaluated using the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) Principles for the Validation of (Q)SAR Models. Additionally, several pragmatic criteria were formulated to select QSARs that are most suitable for their use in regulatory risk assessment. Based on these criteria, four QSARs were selected. The predictivity of these QSARs was evaluated by comparing their outcomes with experimentally derived skin absorption data (for 62 compounds). The predictivity was low for three of four QSARs, whereas one model gave reasonable predictions. Several suggestions are made to increase the applicability of QSARs for skin absorption for risk assessment purposes.
Pattern of ziprasidone exposures reported to Texas poison centers, 2001–2005
Authors: Forrester MB
Published: August 2008

Information on potentially adverse exposures to the atypical antipsychotic drug ziprasidone is limited. This study described the pattern of exposures involving only ziprasidone (isolated exposures) reported to Texas poison control centers during 2001–2005. The mean dose was 666 mg. The patient age distribution was ≤5 years (11%), 6–19 years (30%), and ≥20 years (60%). The exposures were intentional in 53% of the cases. Seventy-five percent of the exposures were managed at health care facilities. The final medical outcome was classified as no effect for 39% of the cases and minor effects for 40% of the cases. Adverse clinical effects were listed for 53% of the patients; the most frequently reported being neurological (42%), cardiovascular (13%), and gastrointestinal (5%). The most frequently listed treatment was decontamination by charcoal (34%) or cathartic (28%). Potentially adverse ziprasidone exposures reported to poison control centers are likely to involve management at a health care facility and involve some sort of adverse clinical effect. With proper treatment, the outcomes of such exposures are generally favorable.
Antioxidant activity of different extracts of Argentinian medicinal plants against arsenic-induced toxicity in renal cells
Authors: Soria EA , Goleniowski ME , Cantero JJ , Bongiovanni GA
Published: August 2008

Chronic toxicity of arsenic resulting from drinking water is a health problem encountered in humans, especially in South America and Asia, where a correlation between oxidative stress, tumor promotion, and arsenic exposure has been observed. Differential solvent extraction (petroleum ether (PE); dichloromethane (DCM); methanol (OL) and water (W)) was performed to compare the protective (antioxidant) activity of five Argentinian medicinal plants on arsenite-induced oxidative stress in Vero cells, assayed by hydroperoxide measurement. The results were analyzed using ANOVA followed by the LSD Fisher test. The data showed that arsenite was a pro-oxidant agent which acts in a time–dose-dependent manner. Extracts from Eupatorium buniifolium (PE), Lantana grisebachii (PE, W), Mandevilla pentlandiana (PE, W), and Sebastiania commersoniana (DCM, OL, W) prevented the formation of both aqueous and lipid hydroperoxides, but Heterothalamus alienus only impeded lipid ones. Therefore, antioxidant extracts are potentially beneficial and may have a protective activity against arsenite-induced renal injury. Among these, the aqueous extract of L. grisebachii may represent the most suitable preparation for humans since the traditional usage of this plant in popular medicine is through consumption of tea.
Effect of glucagon on amitriptyline-induced cardiovascular toxicity in rats
Authors: Kaplan YC , Hocaoglu N , Oransay K , Kalkan S , Tuncok Y
Published: August 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of glucagon on cardiovascular parameters in anesthetized rat model of tricyclic antidepressant overdose. Toxicity was induced by infusion of amitriptyline 0.94 mg/kg/min until a 40–45% of reduction in mean arterial pressure was observed. Amitriptyline infusion rats were then randomized into three groups. Control group of rats (group 1) received a bolus of 5% dextrose followed by the continuous infusion of dextrose, whereas treatment groups received 1 mg/kg (group 2) or 2 mg/kg (group 3) bolus doses of glucagon followed by continuous infusion (0.1 mg/kg/min) of glucagons for 60 min. Mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and electrocardiogram were recorded. Amitriptyline caused a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure and a prolongation in QRS, yet it did not change the heart rate. High-bolus dose of glucagon (2 mg/kg) followed by glucagon infusion significantly increased mean arterial pressure at 40, 50, and 60 min ( P < 0.05) and shortened the prolonged QRS at 50 and 60 min ( P < 0.05) when compared with control group. There was also a significant increase in heart rate. In conclusion, bolus doses followed by a continuous infusion of glucagon were found to be effective in reversing the hypotension and QRS prolongation in the rat model of amitriptyline toxicity. Further studies are needed to reveal the exact mechanism of the proposed effect.
Pregnancy outcome after exposure to oral contraceptives during the periconceptional period
Authors: Ahn HK , Choi JS , Han JY , Kim MH , Chung JH , Ryu HM , Kim MY , Yang JH , Koong MK , Nava-Ocampo AA , Koren G
Published: August 2008

To evaluate whether periconceptional exposure to oral contraceptives (OCs) increased adverse pregnancy outcomes, 136 pregnant women taking OCs within the periconceptional period were identified at the Korean Motherisk Program. Of them, 120 pregnant women accepted to participate in their study and were followed up until completion of the pregnancy. A control group of 240 age- and gravidity-matched pregnant women exposed to non-teratogen drugs for at least 1 month before pregnancy was also included. The median gestational age at delivery was 39.1 (27.0–41.0) weeks in the exposed group and 39.3 (27.4–42.0) weeks in the control group ( P = 0.19). In the exposed group, 7.1% of babies were born with low birth weight versus 2.6% in the control group ( P = 0.068). The number of preterm deliveries or babies born large for gestational age did not differ between the two groups. In the exposed group, the rate of birth defects was 3.2% ( n = 3/99) versus 3.6% ( n = 7/193) in the control group ( P = 1.0). There were 15 women who took high doses of progesterone (emergency contraception) and no adverse fetal outcomes were observed. In conclusion, periconceptional exposure to OCs does not appear to increase the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Iron-generated hydroxyl radicals kill retinal cells in vivo: effect of ferulic acid
Authors: Chao HM , Chen YH , Liu JH , Lee SM , Lee FL , Chang Y , Yeh PH , Pan WHT , Chi CW , Liu TY , Lui WY , Ho LT , Kuo CD , Lin DE , Chan CC , Yang DM , Lin AMY , Chao FP
Published: August 2008

Siderosis bulbi is vision threatening. An investigation into its mechanisms and management is crucial. Experimental siderosis was established by intravitreous administration of an iron particle (chronic) or FeSO4 (acute). After siderosis, there was a significant dose-responsive reduction in eletroretinogram (a/b-wave) amplitude, and an increase in •OH level, greater when caused by 24 mM FeSO4 than that by 8 mM FeSO4. Furthermore, the FeSO4-induced oxidative stress was significantly blunted by 100 μM ferulic acid (FA). Siderosis also resulted in an excessive glutamate release, increased [Ca++]i, and enhanced superoxide dismutase immunoreactivity. The latter finding was consistent with the Western blot result. Obvious disorganization including loss of photoreceptor outer segments and cholinergic amacrines together with a wide-spreading ferric distribution across the retina was present, which were related to the eletro-retinographic and pathologic dysfunctions. Furthermore, b-wave reduction and amacrine damage were respectively, significantly, dose-dependently, and clearly ameliorated by FA. Thus, siderosis stimulates oxidative stress, and possibly, subsequent excitotoxicity, and calcium influx, which explains why the retina is impaired electro-physiologically and pathologically. Importantly, FA protects iron toxicity perhaps by acting as a free radical scavenger. This provides an approach to the study and treatment of the iron-related disorders such as retained intraocular iron and Alzheimer disease.
The Value of Charity in a World of Profit Maximization
Authors: Smith Raymond D.
Published: August 2008

This article addresses the issue of whether the traditional values of charity and philanthropy are ethically recommended, and how they may be reconciled with the sometimes contradictory profit maximization value of the capitalist ‘free market’.1 That is, what place does charity have in the context of the free market where profit maximization is the ruling value?

In answering this question, the article contrasts the effects of ‘no mercy’ with that of ‘mercy’ behaviour on overall utility maximization, and argues that what may be best ultimately from an economic efficiency point of view (no charity) may not in fact maximize overall net utility when defined qualitatively to include social capital such as psychological states and other quality of life indicators. The ethical imperative of love for one's fellow humans is also considered in the debate between the two approaches. To address this point, I introduce the concept of ‘loving altruism’, and in this context make the case for charitable acts of mercy that may nonetheless result in a loss of economic utility in a larger sense. The article concludes that there is a valid place for both charity and philanthropy at either the individual or corporate level, and that the efficiency loss may or may not be outweighed by the gains in overall life quality. The ultimate net outcome would be determined by the specifics of each particular case after an explicit consideration of the need for altruism. The article ends by suggesting an application of Aristotle's ‘Golden Mean’ in determining the optimal level of charity.
Motivation and Human Growth
Authors: Srinivasan M.S.
Published: August 2008

Motivation holds the key for harnessing the human potential in an organization. However, in modern management, motivation is used mainly as a strategy for enhancing the efficiency, productivity and performance of the employee. But for a more integral and effective realization of the human potential in an organization, motivation has to be used as a lever for human evolution and development, with enhanced performance as a spontaneous result. This article provides a comprehensive framework for evolving a motivational strategy, which will lead to the progressive evolution of human potential in an organization. The article tries to integrate modern theories of motivation with ancient Indian perspectives, based on an integral psychology.
Effectiveness of Parent—Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Among Chinese Families
Authors: Leung Cynthia , Tsang Sandra , Heung Kitty , Yiu Ivan
Published: August 2008

Objective: This study examined the effectiveness of Parent—Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) among Chinese parents and children in Hong Kong with significant behavior problems. Method: The participants (intervention group, 48; comparison group, 62) completed questionnaires on child behavior problems and parenting stress before and after intervention. Results: Univariate analysis of covariance, with preintervention scores as covariates, showed the intervention group participants reported fewer child behavior problems and parenting stress postintervention than the comparison group participants. The observational data demonstrated a decrease in inappropriate child-management strategies and an increase in positive parenting practices following intervention. The intervention group participants generally maintained the changes 3 to 6 months after program completion. Conclusions: Cultural issues related to PCIT and culturally appropriate intervention strategies were discussed.
Characterization and Modeling of the Nonlinear Response of Ionic Polymer Actuators
Authors: Kothera Curt S. , Leo Donald J. , Lacy Seth L.
Published: August 2008

Ionic polymers are compliant, low density materials that operate under low voltage levels as transducers. They can be used as both sensors and actuators for various applications, primarily those involving flexible structures. While some debate continues over the dominant physical mechanisms of actuation, several model forms have been proposed. The majority of these existing models are linear relationships between the applied potential and the strain generated. However, nonlinear characteristics have been observed in both the electrical and mechanical response of cantilever actuators, including harmonic distortion in the sinusoidal time response and a shifting frequency response for increased input levels. Characterization results indicate that the nonlinear mechanisms are dynamic, since they have dominance at low frequencies, but are essentially negligible as the excitation frequency increases. This research uses knowledge gained from the characterization results to develop a dynamic model that can predict the observed nonlinear behavior. The empirical model is constructed from input-output data collected using a Gaussian input current signal and is validated against the measured frequency response function and single-frequency sinusoidal responses. The basic model form has a dynamic nonlinearity on the input to an underlying nonlinear system.
Culture and Empirically Supported Treatments: On the Road to a Collision?
Authors: La Roche Martin , Christopher Michael S.
Published: August 2008

The dual influence of culturally sensitive therapies (CSTs) and empirically supported treatments (ESTs) on clinical practitioners has grown quickly in the United States. While CST advocates have been driven by the need to provide culturally diverse populations with services that are consistent with their cultural characteristics, practitioners of ESTs have striven to empirically demonstrate the benefits of psychotherapy. However, as EST's influence grows, it may increasingly threaten CST's advances. Some assumptions underlying the development of ESTs are not culturally sensitive and can be detrimental to the well-being of culturally diverse patients. This article highlights these assumptions in four interrelated areas and provides suggestions to overcome these shortcomings. Cultural assumptions and methodological implications of ESTs are presented, as well as some suggestions on how to broaden their cultural understandings. To conclude, some general recommendations on how to start bridging the gap between ESTs and CSTs are proposed.
The stress-reducing effects of art in pediatric health care: art preferences of healthy children and hospitalized children
Authors: Eisen Sarajane L. , Ulrich Roger S. , Shepley Mardelle M. , Varni James W. , Sherman Sandra
Published: August 2008

Art is assumed to possess therapeutic benefits of healing for children, as part of patient-focused design in health care. Since the psychological and physiological well-being of children in health care settings is extremely important in contributing to the healing process, it is vitally important to identify what type of art supports stress reduction. Based on adult studies, nature art was anticipated to be the most preferred and to have stress-reducing effects on pediatric patients. Nature art refers to art images dominated by natural vegetation, flowers or water. The objective of this study was to investigate what type of art image children prefer, and what type of art image has potentially stress-reducing effects on children in hospitals. This study used a three-phase, multi-method approach with children aged 5—17 years: a focus group study (129 participants), a randomized study (48 participants), and a quasi-experimental study design (48 participants). Findings were evaluated from three phases.
Fear in children with cancer: observations at an outpatient visit
Authors: Anderzén Carlsson Agneta , Sørlie Venke , Gustafsson Karin , Olsson Maria , Kihlgren Mona
Published: August 2008

The aim of the study was to describe interactions within the family and between them and professionals on a routine visit at a paediatric oncology outpatient clinic where the visiting child was likely to be fearful. Observations were performed. Data were analysed by qualitative content analysis. The behaviours most frequently observed as expressing fear were being quiet, withdrawn or providing detailed descriptions of experiences. Within the theme `Recognition of the fear', an attentive attitude to the fear was traced; fear was confirmed and cooperation was seen. Although many efforts were made to meet the fear, this was not always successful. Within the theme `Lack of attention to the fear', the fear was not in focus due to parental worries and concerns about the child's health, and organizational disturbances. The results can serve as a basis for collegial reflections of how to handle fear in children with cancer.
Emotional attachment to home and security for permanent residents in caravan parks in Melbourne
Authors: Newton Janice
Published: August 2008

The aim of this article is to explore emotional attachment to home of permanent residents in caravan parks. Analysis of a small number of life histories, with specific probes around matters of belonging to home, community and place, reveals deeper insight when viewed through theoretical lenses provided by the work of Giddens on ontological security and the ideas around emotion and home provided by housing researchers such as Clapham. The exploratory study, covering a range of caravan parks, has been undertaken in two phases: the first in 2003—4 interviewing caravan park managers (10) and the second in 2006 interviewing permanent residents (12). Findings support the central significance of safety and security for many residents, and provide some strong instances of embodied attachment to home in the park. Although objectively challenged by tenure arrangements and social processes, ontological security appears subjectively achievable for some residents.
Coping with mild Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Sørensen Lisbeth , Waldorff Frans , Waldemar Gunhild
Published: August 2008

The aim of this study was to analyse how patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) cope with the changes they face concerning everyday life and social relations. This study used a grounded theory approach in the analysis of interview data from 11 persons with mild AD, home-living with a spouse. The analysis revealed that the basic social psychological problem faced by patients with mild AD was their awareness of decline in personal dignity and value. Coping strategies used to meet these problems were adaptations to the altered situation in order to maintain a feeling of well-being. The spouse appeared to be the most important social relation. The most significant worries of the patients were about communication in relation to their spouse, and about the reaction of the spouse to the consequences of the disease.
CEO ownership and effective boards: impacts on firm outcomes
Authors: Walters Bruce A. , Kroll Mark , Wright Peter
Published: August 2008

We examine the impact of boards of directors on shareholder returns arising from acquisition announcements in the context of varying CEO ownership levels. Agency theory emphasizes the benefits of incentives pertaining to top managers and directors, whereas resource dependence theory focuses on directors' resource provision, advice and counsel. Drawing on both these perspectives, the authors describe effective boards as those that are vigilant (via incentives to monitor) and rich in human capital (via relevant experience). Such boards are able not only to monitor in the decision control sense, but also to provide strategic benefits to a greater degree than typical outside directors.The authors contend and find that moderate levels of CEO ownership, combined with appropriate incentives and human capital, increase returns to shareholders of acquiring firms. Although shareholders benefit less when CEO ownership is negligible or substantial, their welfare is still enhanced to the degree that the board has appropriate incentives and human capital.
Procalcitonin in stable and unstable patients with bronchiectasis
Authors: Loebinger MR , Shoemark A , Berry M , Kemp M , Wilson R
Published: August 2008

Presently used markers of infection in bronchiectasis are inadequate to judge stability or make decisions about antibiotic treatment during bacterial exacerbations. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a new marker that has been used in community-acquired pneumonia and promises to allow much more specific and sensitive monitoring of patients with bacterial infections. This is the first study assessing its use in bronchiectasis. Thirty-eight consecutive inpatients and 63 consecutive outpatients were included in the study. All patients had PCT, other inflammatory markers, and a symptom score recorded. Inpatients had these values repeated at day 5 and 10 of their stay, while receiving intravenous antibiotics. Outpatients: PCT levels were generally low in the outpatient group. PCT was significantly correlated to C-reactive protein. Higher levels were associated with increased symptoms ( P = 0.09) and an increased likelihood of antibiotic prescription ( P = 0.007). Inpatients: As a group, inflammatory markers were significantly higher than in the outpatient group ( P = 0.007). There was no correlation between the levels of PCT and the other inflammatory markers. PCT concentrations were generally low (as with other markers), which may reflect mucosal infection. Larger studies are needed, but PCT seems unlikely to be able to guide treatment of an exacerbation in bronchiectasis. PCT may offer more promise as a measure of stability.
The implementation of Restoring Health – a chronic disease model of care to decrease acute health care utilization
Authors: Howard R , Sanders R , Lydall-Smith SM
Published: August 2008

The Restoring Health Program, a multi-disciplinary model of care for patients with chronic lung diseases, heart failure, and diabetes, was established to improve the quality of life and function for patients with these target chronic diseases, while reducing their disproportionately high demand on acute health care services. Acute health care utilization at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne for all patients recruited between February 2003 and June 2005 ( n = 351) was analyzed using within-subjects paired sample t-tests to compare the 6 months of pre-recruitment with 6 months of post-recruitment. Analysis showed statistically significant decreases in emergency department presentations ( P < 0.001), hospital admissions ( P < 0.001), and length of stay ( P < 0.001). This article describes the current model of care, the program’s enablers, and its impact on health service demand after the first 4 years of implementation.
Septo-optic Dysplasia (De Morsier Syndrome): Case Report and Discussion
Authors: Lodge Virginia G , Mason Gerald C , Weston Michael J
Published: August 2008

Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD or De Morsier Syndrome) is a rare congenital malformation of the brain which is only occasionally detected in utero. It is usually suspected by the absence of the cavum septum pellucidum (CSP). We report the pre-natal ultrasound and MRI findings in one suspected case and discuss the associated diagnostic dilemmas.
Sonographic Characterisation of Tissue Changes Associated with Infused Apomorphine Hydrochloride: A Case Series
Authors: Edwards Hazel , Poltawski Leon , Todd Amy
Published: August 2008

Apomorphine hydrochloride is used to treat refractory motor fluctuations in advanced Parkinson's disease. Delivery by infusion is associated with the formation of hard subcutaneous nodules, which may be painful, limit available infusion sites, and interfere with absorption of the drug. Diagnostic ultrasound was used to image affected tissue in 12 people experiencing apomorphine nodule formations. It revealed significant departures from normality in dermal and subcutaneous tissue, including a variety of nodule appearances, dermal thickening and diffuse changes consistent with inflammatory reactions. Sonographic appearances differed markedly between individuals, but no clear correlation between severity of tissue changes, patient demographics and apomorphine dose was observed. Diagnostic ultrasound may be useful as a non-invasive method of assessing subcutaneous nodule formation, to measure changes in affected tissue over time and after treatment.
The Role of Ultrasound in Early Pregnancy: We Have Created a Monster
Authors: Coady Anne Marie
Published: August 2008

This article is framed around a series of questions posed to an audience at the BMUS Annual Scientific Meeting, Harrogate, in December 2007. The audience answers are presented after each question, followed by an explanation for some of the diagnostic issues faced on a day to day basis on early pregnancy units.
Trans-Abdominal Ultrasound of the Alimentary Tract in the Tropics: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Kawooya Michael G. , Kiguli-Malwadde Elsie , Bugeza Samuel
Published: August 2008

Transcutaneus ultrasound (TUS) has been used for a long time for the investigation of the alimentary canal. Positive TUS has been noted useful although negative findings do not exclude bowel disease. This pictorial review particularly demonstrates the usefulness of TUS in the tropical setting where other radiological facilities may be in short supply.
IFN-γ–mediated inhibition of MAPK phosphatase expression results in prolonged MAPK activity in response to M-CSF and inhibition of proliferation
Authors: Valledor Annabel F. , Arpa Luís , Sánchez-Tilló Ester , Comalada Mònica , Casals Cristina , Xaus Jordi , Caelles Carme , Lloberas Jorge , Celada Antonio
Published: August 2008

Macrophages have the capacity to proliferate in response to specific growth factors, such as macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF). In the presence of several cytokines and activating factors, macrophages undergo growth arrest, become activated, and participate in the development of an immune response. We have previously observed that activation of extracellularly regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK-1/2) is required for macrophage proliferation in response to growth factors. A short and early pattern of ERK activity correlated with the proliferative response. In contrast, slightly prolonged patterns of activity of these kinases were induced by signals that lead to macrophage activation and growth arrest. IFN-γ is the main endogenous Th1-type macrophage activator. Here we report that stimulation with IFN-γ prolongs the pattern of ERK activity induced by M-CSF in macrophages. These effects correlate with IFN-γ–mediated inhibition of the expression of several members of the MAPK phosphatase family, namely MKP-1, -2, and -4. Moreover, inhibition of MKP-1 expression using siRNA technology or synthetic inhibitors also led to elongated ERK activity and significant blockage of M-CSF–dependent proliferation. These data suggest that subtle changes in the time course of activity of members of the MAPK family contribute to the antiproliferative effects of IFN-γ in macrophages.
Dendritic cell and natural killer cell cross-talk: a pivotal role of CX3CL1 in NK cytoskeleton organization and activation
Authors: Pallandre Jean R. , Krzewski Konrad , Bedel Romain , Ryffel Bernhard , Caignard Anne , Rohrlich Pierre Simon , Pivot Xavier , Tiberghien Pierre , Zitvogel Laurence , Strominger Jack L. , Borg Christophe
Published: August 2008

Initial molecular events leading to natural killer lymphocyte (NK) and dendritic cell (DC) interactions are largely unknown. Here, the role of CX3CL1 (fractalkine), a chemokine expressed on mature dendritic cells (mDCs) has been investigated. We show that CX3CL1 promotes NK activation by mDCs. After blocking of CX3CL1 by antibody, no activation occurred but major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I neutralization restored DC-mediated NK activation, suggesting an interaction between CX3CL1 signaling and the functioning of inhibitory KIR. Then the YTS NK cell line, in which the inhibitory receptor KIR2DL1 had been introduced, was used. The presence of KIR2DL1 did not decrease YTS activation by HLA-Cw4 DC when CX3CL1 was functional. In contrast, CX3CL1 neutralization led to killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) phosphorylation and SHP-1 recruitment in YTSKIR2DL1 cultured with HLA-Cw4 mDCs. Moreover, CX3CL1 neutralization promoted dispersion of lipid rafts and the formation of a multiprotein complex required for cytoskeletal rearrangements in YTS NK cells. These findings point to a pivotal role of CX3CL1 in the activation of resting NK cells by mature DCs.
NADPH oxidase controls phagosomal pH and antigen cross-presentation in human dendritic cells
Authors: Mantegazza Adriana R. , Savina Ariel , Vermeulen Mónica , Pérez Laura , Geffner Jorge , Hermine Olivier , Rosenzweig Sergio D. , Faure Florence , Amigorena Sebastián
Published: August 2008

The phagocyte NADPH oxidase (NOX2) is critical for the bactericidal activity of phagocytic cells and plays a major role in innate immunity. We showed recently that NOX2 activity in mouse dendritic cells (DCs) prevents acidification of phagosomes, promoting antigen cross-presentation. Inorder to investigate the role of NOX2 in the regulation of the phagosomal pH in human DCs, we analyzed the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the phagosomal/endosomal pH in monocyte-derived DCs and macrophages (MØs) from healthy donors or patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). As expected, we found that human MØs acidify their phagosomes more efficiently than human DCs. Accordingly, the expression of the vacuolar proton ATPase (V-H+-ATPase) was higher in MØs than in DCs. Phagosomal ROS production, however, was also higher in MØs than in DCs, due to higher levels of gp91phox expression and recruitment to phagosomes. In contrast, in the absence of active NOX2, the phagosomal and endosomal pH decreased. Both in the presence of a NOX2 inhibitor and in DCs derived from patients with CGD, the cross-presentation of 2 model tumor antigens was impaired. We conclude that NOX2 activity participates in the regulation of the phagosomal and endosomal pH in human DCs, and is required for efficient antigen cross-presentation.
Breaking Oscillations in Servo Systems
Authors: Vogel Theodore
Published: August 2008

The present paper is concerned with some aspects of stability and of steady periodical changes in dynamical systems. After a brief survey of the classical theory due to Poincaré, I shall sum up some of my recent work relating to a certain class of systems not considered in that theory. It is, of course, assumed that this work is relevant to the main subject of this meeting; in fact, in the course of writing down these notes I was fortunate enough to be able to look (although far too cursorily) through Dr. Ashby's book,Design for a Brain, and have been struck by what appeared to me to be a remarkable parallelism between our lines of thought. The arrangement of the subject-matter has been avowedly influenced by this assumption of relevancy; however, I shall keep to my legitimate grounds as a physicist and shall leave it to you to fill in what ever “psychological” conclusions you may think justified.
Benzoic Acid Detoxication in Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Graetz Bergith , Reiss M. , Waldon G.
Published: August 2008

Quick (1931) first reported on the conjugation of benzoic acid in man and recorded the hippuric acid excretion rate as a test for liver function. Quastel and Wales (1938) found faulty detoxication in catatonic schizophrenic patients and later (1940) a return to normal values after clinical remission. A number of other workers, particularly Georgi, Fischer, Weber and Weiss (1948–49) described this disturbed benzoic acid detoxication as a general syndrome in all schizophrenics. When giving glycine simultaneously with the benzoic acid they noticed a normalized and increased hippuric acid excretion rate in patients who originally showed decreased hippuric acid excretion. The Quick test, modified in this way, was used in order to prove that the decreased hippuric acid excretion rate is not the expression of a disturbance in the coupling mechanism between benzoic acid and glycine but rather a disturbed ability of the organism to mobilize glycine. Mall and Jünemann (1952) have lately confirmed the results of Georgiet al.in extensive investigations. They reached the conclusion that variations in the hippuric acid excretion rate are mainly due to a disturbance of the ability to dispose of glycine in the schizophrenic organism. They confirmed previous results of Georgi according to whom treatment of the patients, which was carried out partly from the point of view of disturbed liver function only, partly combined with insulin and electroshock, leads to improvement of the detoxication rate. Persky, Gamm, and Grinker (1952) have also recently seen decreased hippuric acid excretion values in catatonic schizophrenic subjects, and have reported a return of the hippuric acid excretion to normal after successful psychiatric treatment. In their series patients who manifested free anxiety symptoms, excreted elevated amounts of hippuric acid; the excretion rate returning to normal levels after successful psychiatric treatment.