bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFL classroom peer assessment: Training effects on rating and commenting
Authors: Saito Hidetoshi
Published: September 2008

This study examined the effects of training on peer assessment and comments provided regarding oral presentations in EFL (English as a Foreign Language) classrooms. In Study 1, both the treatment and control groups received instruction on skill aspects, but only the treatment group was given an additional 40-minute training on how to rate performances. The results of the correlation difference analyses show no significant differences between the treatment and control groups, but the three instructors are misfitting, presumably because the frame of reference is set by the majority of student data. In the second study, the treatment groups received long training. Again, there are no significant correlation differences between the treatment and control groups; however, all the instructors are not misfitting, which indicates that the frame of reference in the data improved in Study 2. Analyses of comments reveal that the treatment groups are superior in both quality and quantity of comments. Along with a meta-analytic summary, it is argued that peer assessment is a robust system in which instruction on skill aspects may suffice to achieve a certain level of correlation with the criterion variable (instructor), but training may enhance student comments and reduce misfitting raters.
Thrust Control, Stabilization and Energetics of a Quadruped Running Robot
Authors: Estremera Joaquin , Waldron Kenneth J
Published: September 2008

In order to achieve powered autonomous running robots it is essential to develop efficient actuator systems, especially for generating the radial thrust in the legs. In addition, the control of the radial thrust of the legs can be a simple, effective method for stabilizing the body pitch in a running gait. This paper presents the mechanical systems, models and control strategies employed to generate and control leg thrust in the KOLT quadruped running robot. An analytical model of the electro-pneumatic leg thrusting system is presented and analyzed to evaluate its performance and to facilitate the design of control strategies. Several experiments have been conducted to estimate the energy losses and determine their origins as well as to compute the energetic efficiency of the actuation system. Two thrust control methods are also proposed and tested experimentally. The closed loop method regulates thrust through the control of the hip liftoff speed, a conceptually simple control strategy that stabilizes the body pitch in pronk and trot gaits without the need for central feedback, even on irregular terrain. The open-loop control method regulates the energy added in each hop based on the model of the actuator system. The efficacy of these models and techniques is tested in several planar trot and pronk experiments, and the results are analyzed focusing on the body stabilization, the power consumption and the energetic efficiency.
Race and resistance: the IRR story
Authors: Sivanandan A.
Published: September 2008

What lay behind the founding of the Institute of Race Relations in 1958 and its subsequent transformation in the early 1970s, through the agency of its staff, radical academics and black activists, is told here by a major protagonist of that change. Edited and abbreviated from a 1974 pamphlet, long out of print, not only does the article give an object lesson in how to effect far-reaching and radical organisational change, but it also contextualises the IRR story in the history of post-war race relations in Britain, pointing the way to its future development.
IRR: the story continues
Authors: Bourne Jenny
Published: September 2008

The development of the Institute of Race Relations' (IRR) work, from its transformation in the early 1970s through to the present day, is traced here by one of its central figures. An account is given of how the UK's experience of fighting racism was applied by the IRR to other European contexts and also became the basis for a UK news service using new media. Finally, the establishing of an archive documenting the black struggle in Britain is described.
Gas, waqf and Barclays Capital: a decade of resistance in southern Thailand
Authors: Lohmann Larry
Published: September 2008

The struggle of villagers in the Chana district of southern Thailand to resist the construction of the Trans Thai-Malaysia gas pipeline and its various spin-off industries illustrates some of the ways in which questions of ethnic, religious and class conflict are tightly bound up with industrial development, the global financial sector and human rights abuses. While the Thai elite and international investors portray the project as `socially responsible', the protesting villagers have increasingly turned to Islamic principles of waqf — land designated as given over to God and therefore available for common use — to articulate their opposition.
Standing together: the Muslim Association of Britain and the anti-war movement
Authors: Phillips Richard
Published: September 2008

One of the main groups involved in organising the mobilisation of millions of people in opposition to the Iraq war of 2003 was the Muslim Association of Britain (MAB). Much recent commentary has focused on the involvement of MAB (an offshoot of the Arab Muslim Brotherhood) in the coalition of organisations that led the anti-war movement. Less attention has been paid to how MAB activists themselves understood their working relationship with the other organised groups in the Stop the War coalition. Based mainly on interviews with MAB activists, this article examines their perspectives and experiences of working within a broad Left movement.
The Split Personality of Planning
Authors: Hibbard Michael , Lane Marcus B. , Rasmussen Kathleen
Published: September 2008

The international movement toward recognition of indigenous rights over the past thirty years has created a number of complex and compelling issues in planning for the use of land and natural resources. Planning should have much to say about many of these issues, given its concern for the use of land and resources, its focus on problem-solving, and its normative disposition. There is, however, only a modest literature on indigenous planning. Thus, we draw on the planning literature, but also call heavily on work from associated disciplines to introduce to planning scholars some of the problems and opportunities indigenous communities face with respect to land and resource management.
Sensitivity Analysis of Acceleration-based Energy Damage Detection Strategy to Load Excitations and Sensor Placement
Authors: Xu Zhao-Dong , Zhishen Wu
Published: September 2008

Structural damage detection technique is very attractive for long-span bridges. Some dynamic damage detection methods are proposed to identify damages in structures. Energy-based dynamic damage detection strategy is a novel topic in this field. In this paper, a damage detection strategy based on acceleration response energy is proposed, based on the relationship between the frequency response function of acceleration responses and mode shapes. Numerical analysis on a long-span cable-stayed bridge is performed by using the proposed strategy. Energy difference and energy curvature difference are adopted as the dynamic indices. The sensitivity and effectiveness of the strategy are studied by adopting different load excitations according different environment noise. A discussion of the proposed strategy is also carried out when the number of sensors (i.e., accelerometers) are reduced. Numerical results show that the acceleration response energy-based damage detection strategy has high damage location and excellent anti-noise pollution abilities under the same excitations for undamaged and damaged structures, while its damage location ability degrades under the different excitations for the undamaged and damaged structures. When less accelerometers are installed in the mid-span, 1/2 span, 1/4 span, and 1/8 span of the bridge, damages will be omitted or mis-estimated.
Variable Stiffness Structures Utilizing Fluidic Flexible Matrix Composites
Authors: Ying Shan  , Philen Michael , Lotfi Amir , Suyi Li  , Bakis Charles E. , Rahn Christopher D. , Wang K.W.
Published: September 2008

In this research, the capability of utilizing fluidic flexible matrix composites (F2MC) for autonomous structural tailoring is investigated. By taking advantage of the high anisotropy of flexible matrix composite (FMC) tubes and the high bulk modulus of the pressurizing fluid, significant changes in the effective modulus of elasticity can be achieved by controlling the inlet valve to the fluid-filled F2MC structure. The variable modulus F2MC structure has the flexibility to easily deform when desired (open-valve), possesses the high modulus required during loading conditions when deformation is not desired (closed-valve — locked state), and has the adaptability to vary the modulus between the flexible/stiff states through control of the valve. In the current study, a 3D analytical model is developed to characterize the axial stiffness behavior of a single F 2MC tube. Experiments are conducted to validate the proposed model, and the test results show good agreement with the model predictions. A closed/open modulus ratio as high as 56 times is achieved experimentally. With the validated model, an F2MC design space study is performed. It is found that by tailoring the properties of the FMC tube and inner liner, a wide range of moduli and modulus ratios can be attained. By embedding multiple F 2MC tubes side by side in a soft matrix, a multi-cellular F2MC sheet with a variable stiffness in one direction is constructed. The stiffness ratio of the multi-cellular F2MC sheet obtained experimentally shows good agreement with a model developed for this type of structure. A case study has been conducted to investigate the behavior of laminated [+60/0/-60] s multi-cellular F2MC sheets. It is shown that the laminate can achieve tunable, steerable, anisotropy by selective valve control.
Making Connections
Authors: Cooper Shelly , Berger Cardany Audrey
Published: September 2008

The Musical Play program is designed to assist children ages 2 to 5 and their parents. The program creators sought to he families build a repertoire of songs and activities for everyday living and to encourage musical play at home. The progra includes developmentally appropriate songs, materials, and activities and incorporates a wide variety of topics, presentation and interactions. The songs and activities presented contribute to the well-being of children, both cognitively and emotio ally. Music centers remain the basis of the program, as the program was designed to incorporate musical free play. The ce ters are the vehicles for engaging children in thinking and playing with music. Through these centers, parents may learn ne ways to play musically with their children. The child's acquisition of musical skills, within this rich environment, empowe and enhances personal and musical expression, as well as aids in language acquisition and coordination development.
Using a Musicianship Portfolio as Assessment of Music and Education Course Objectives in a “Music for Elementary Teachers” Course
Authors: Huisman Koops Lisa
Published: September 2008

This study explores the use of a portfolio to document and assess development of musicianship in a university course on elementary music methods for early childhood and elementary education majors. The researcher develops and implements the portfolio during two semesters, and students complete a survey regarding the perceived usefulness of the assignment. Survey feedback suggests an appreciation on the part of students regarding the usefulness of the portfolio relative to their learning in the course. Students indicate that the portfolio helped them to understand what musicianship is and become aware of and grow in their own musicianship. The results also suggest that the portfolio was a valuable tool for students to synthesize their learning in the course. The majority of students respond that they believed musicianship was an important part of the course; this belief could be due in part to the experience of creating the portfolio.
A New Framework for Music Education Knowledge and Skill
Authors: Si Millican J.
Published: September 2008

This study investigates perceptions of secondary school band and orchestra teachers regarding the relative importance of knowledge and skill categories to professional success, using a framework modeled after Schulman (1986, 1987). Band and orchestra teachers in secondary schools ( N = 214) complete an anonymous, online survey ranking the relative importance of various knowledge and skill categories. Participants rank pedagogical content knowledge, content knowledge, and general pedagogical knowledge highest. There are no significant differences in the rankings of the categories among various subgroups at the p < .05 level. Results confirm the applicability of Schulman's model to music education. This framework has implications for undergraduate, graduate, and continuing professional education. Analysis of categories' interaction provides insight into effective classroom instruction.
Antidotes for Infidelity and Prescriptions for Long Lasting Relationships: Four Couples' Activities
Authors: Nelson Judith A. , Li Chi-sing , Eckstein Daniel G. , Ane Pedra , Mullener William
Published: September 2008

Issues regarding infidelity are examined in terms of antidotes for avoiding unfaithful behavior. Several self-assessment activities are described in which couples can be honest and direct with each other about their perceptions and experiences with commitment and fidelity both as children and adults. These activities are intended to act as booster shots to build antibodies counter to unfaithful behaviors in long-term relationships. The activities can be used as prescriptions by mental health professionals with couples who are considering marriage or who are already married and experiencing concerns about maintaining a long-term, faithful relationship. Throughout the article, references to the closely related notion of commitment are discussed resulting from a survey of individuals' views of commitment in romantic relationships.
The Poisoned Tree: Infidelity as Opportunity for Transformation
Authors: Warren Jane A. , Morgan Michael M. , Williams Susan L. , Mansfield Tina L.
Published: September 2008

Therapists working with couples will likely have opportunities to help couples dealing with affairs. Affairs present significant challenges not only to couples but also to therapists. Using a traditional Buddhist story as a metaphor, a three-stage model for working with couples after an affair is presented. The metaphor and model suggest a perceptual shift from seeing the affair as a relationship-ending event to viewing it as a transformational process and opportunity for growth. Each of the three stages is explained conceptually along with suggested interventions to help couples move through each stage in rebuilding a new, healthier relationship. The importance of mindfulness for both the therapist and couple is outlined, and limitations are suggested.
Relationship Betrayal and the Influence of Religious Beliefs: A Case Illustration of Couples Counseling
Authors: Gibson Donna M.
Published: September 2008

Due to the high prevalence of relationship betrayal in America, it is not surprising that this issue presents in marriage, couples, and family counseling. However, the role of religion and spirituality has not been explored as to its influence on the experience of relationship betrayal by partners in the couple system. In this article, these issues are explored in the context of couples counseling, and a case illustration is provided.
Treating Infidelity: Considering Narratives of Attachment
Authors: Duba Jill D. , Kindsvatter Aaron , Lara Tracy
Published: September 2008

This article presents a counseling model for treating infidelity based on the integration of key aspects of attachment theory into a narrative therapy approach. The authors describe specific guidelines for their model after first reviewing personal attachment styles with a proclivity toward infidelity and providing a brief review of initial treatment considerations. Finally, they present a case example illustrating the use of narrative therapy and attachment theory as a model for treating infidelity.
A Counselor Reflects on Her Family's Experience With Infidelity
Authors: Evans Marcheta P.
Published: September 2008

Please send a family story that might be of interest to your colleagues to Larry Golden, UTSA Downtown Campus, CEPAHE, 501 W. Durango Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78207; e-mail: larry.golden@utsa.edu.
A Modified Infidelity Debriefing Process for Couples Who Have Recently Experienced Infidelity Disclosure
Authors: Juhnke Gerald A. , Coll Kenneth M. , Evans Marcheta , Sunich Michael F. , Hansen Konyi D. , Valadez Albert
Published: September 2008

A review of the professional literature reveals numerous articles related to the frequency and prevalence of infidelity, the demographics, values, attitudes, opinions, and religious affiliations of those who have participated in or experienced infidelity, and typical infidelity relationship durations. However, there exists a paucity of treatment-based literature describing how to clinically process or debrief infidelity disclosure. To address this paucity, the Modified Infidelity Debriefing Process used by the authors is described. This strengths-based process combines solution-focused interventions and has been used with couples who have experienced recent infidelity disclosure.
Spousal Disclosure of Extramarital Relationships: Attitudes of Marriage and Family Therapists
Authors: Softas-Nall Basilia , Beadle Michelle , Newell Jennifer , Helm Heather M.
Published: September 2008

This article presents attitudes of clinical members of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (N = 332) toward spousal disclosure of extramarital relationships. A survey was developed in which an affair was defined as a sexual and emotional secretive relationship occurring concurrent to a committed, cohabiting relationship. Therapist demographic variables that were found to have a significant relationship with attitudes toward affair disclosure were age and level of graduate degree. A large number of narrative comments from participant reactions to survey questions are included, along with further findings and suggestions for educators of marriage and family therapists.
The Editorship: A Reflection on the Past and a Look to the Future
Authors: Nelson Kaye W. , Southern Stephen
Published: September 2008

The Family Journal office is moving from Texas A&M University—Corpus Christi to Mississippi College as Kaye W. Nelson completes her 3-year commitment and Steve Southern assumes sole editorship. A retrospective view of the past 3 years is presented, as is a prospective for the future.
Treating Infidelity: An Integrative Approach
Authors: Fife Stephen T. , Weeks Gerald R. , Gambescia Nancy
Published: September 2008

Infidelity is one of the most common and the most difficult problems to treat in couples therapy. In this article, the authors present an integrative approach to treating infidelity based on the intersystems approach developed by Weeks. The approach integrates theory and techniques from both individual and systemic psychotherapy and addresses the individual, relational, and intergenerational factors associated with infidelity. The treatment approach reflects the authors' view of infidelity as a systemic, intimacy-based problem. Treatment includes five interrelated phases: (a) crisis management and assessment, (b) systemic considerations, (c) facilitating forgiveness, (d) treating factors that contribute to infidelity, and (e) promoting intimacy through communication. Of particular importance is the development of unifying factors that facilitate healing, unite couples, and reduce their vulnerability to future betrayals.
Understanding Infidelity: Pitfalls and Lessons for Couples Counselors
Authors: Peluso Paul R. , Spina Pamela
Published: September 2008

Infidelity is a serious problem with serious consequences for couples and creates substantial obstacles for couples counselors. At the same time, it is the most often cited reason that couples come for counseling. The good news is that couples counselors can be effective in these areas, but not without understanding the emotional, mental, and physical complexity of infidelity. Unfortunately, many couples counselors do not feel adequately prepared to handle the subject of infidelity. There are several “pitfalls” into which counselors commonly fall. By understanding the relevant research on the effectiveness of couples counseling approaches and paying attention to a counselor's own personal reactions, a practitioner can help couples navigate the difficult, painful emotions that stem from infidelity.
Are All Low Molecular Weight Heparins Equivalent in the Management of Venous Thromboembolism?
Authors: Fareed Jawed , Jeske Walter , Fareed Daniel , Clark Melaine , Wahi Rakesh , Adiguzel Cafer , Hoppensteadt Debra
Published: September 2008

Low molecular weight heparins are replacing unfractionated heparin in a number of clinical indications because of their improved subcutaneous bioavailability and more predictable antithrombotic response. Clinical trials have demonstrated that low molecular weight heparins are at least as safe and effective as unfractionated heparin for the initial treatment of venous thromboembolism, and unfractionated heparin and warfarin for primary and secondary thromboprophylaxis. The mechanism behind the antithrombotic action of low molecular weight heparins is not fully understood but is likely to involve inhibition of coagulation factors Xa and IIa (thrombin), release of tissue-factor-pathway inhibitor, and inhibition of thrombin activatable fibrinolytic inhibitor. Different low molecular weight heparins have been shown to have various effects on coagulation parameters. Seven low molecular weight heparins are currently marketed worldwide, each demonstrated distinct chemical entities with unique pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. Each low molecular weight heparin is approved for specific indications based on the available efficacy and safety data for that product. The relative efficacy and safety of the low molecular weight heparins are unclear because there have been very few direct comparisons in randomized clinical trials. While recommending low molecular weight heparins for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism, clinical guidelines have not specified individual agents. National and international organizations recognize that low molecular weight heparins are distinct entities and that they should not be used interchangeably in clinical practice. Each low molecular weight heparin should be used at the recommended dose when efficacy and safety data exist for the condition being treated. When these data are not available, the dosing and administration of low molecular weight heparins must be adapted from existing data and recommendations.
Group Processes & Intergroup Relations 10 Years On: Development, Impact and Future Directions
Authors: Abrams Dominic , Hogg Michael A.
Published: September 2008

The development of this Journal, Group Processes & Intergroup Relations, is reviewed. Throughout its first 10 years, the Journal has been supported by a strong editorial board. It has sustained a significant profile in social psychology in the area of both intergroup and small group processes. Its wider impact includes connection to related disciplines such as organizational behavior and neuroscience, focused special issues, small conferences related to the theme of the Journal and the expansion of group and intergroup research through learned societies. The editors thank authors, editorial board members, editorial assistants, reviewers and readers for their support.
Roommate Relationships: A Comparison of Interracial and Same-Race Living Situations
Authors: Shook Natalie J. , Fazio Russell H.
Published: September 2008

The effects of same-race versus interracial dormitory roommate relationships were explored with regard to relationship dissolution and academic achievement (i.e., grade point average). The present investigation made use of archival data spanning two academic years at a large, relatively diverse university. Of primary interest were White and African American first-year students assigned to White or African American roommates upon their arrival on campus. Another factor that was incorporated into this analysis was whether students requested to live with their roommates or were randomly assigned. Interracial roommate relationships were more likely to dissolve than either same-race White or same-race African American relationships. Randomly assigned living situations were less successful than ones in which roommates requested to share a room. Concerning grade point average at the end of the first academic quarter, African American first-year students tended to do better in interracial living situations, whereas White first-year students' academic success was not affected by roommate race. Instead, White first-year students were more sensitive to the academic abilities of their roommates. Results are discussed with regard to the implications for intergroup contact.
`I told you so': justification used in disputes in young children's interactions in an early childhood classroom
Authors: Cobb-Moore Charlotte , Danby Susan , Farrell Ann
Published: September 2008

While justifications are used frequently by young children in their everyday interactions, their use has not been examined to any great extent. This article examines the interactional phenomenon of justification used by young children as they manage social organization of their peer group in an early childhood classroom. The methodological approaches of conversation analysis and membership categorization analysis were used to analyse video-recorded and transcribed interactions of young children (aged 4—6 years) in a preparatory classroom in a primary school in Australia. The focus is an episode that occurred within the play area of the classroom and involved a dispute of ownership relating to a small, wooden plank. Justifications were frequent occurrences as the young participants drew upon justificatory devices to support their stances. The justifications related to the concepts of ownership and were used by those engaged in the particular dispute to support their positions and provide reasons for their actions. Four types of justificatory responses using child-constructed rules are highlighted. They are: justification based on the rule of transferred ownership; the rule of first possession; rules associated with custodianship; and the rule of third-party verification. The justifications are practices that work to build and reinforce individual children's status within the group, which in turn contributes to the social order of the classroom.
The development of early sociodramatic play
Authors: Deunk Marjolein , Berenst Jan , De Glopper Kees
Published: September 2008

In this article we study the beginnings of sociodramatic play. We examine the pretend play interactions of a Dutch girl, Peggy, and focus on her transition into sociodramatic play. Initially, Peggy interprets only some elements of her play interactions at the pretend level. At age 2;9, Peggy shows symbolic substitution for objects and actions. In the course of seven months, the features participants, roles and place gradually become substituted and specified at the pretend level in Peggy's play. In the earlier play interactions, Peggy and her interaction partner keep a discourse identity and only assign new meaning to objects and to their local acts. In a later play interaction, Peggy and her playmate take roles and interpret their situated identities in the pretend layer. The use of situated identities allows for a range of possible acts and a sociodramatic story line, which increases the complexity of the pretend play.
CA and SCT: strange bedfellows or useful partners for understanding classroom interactions?
Authors: Vine Elaine W.
Published: September 2008

Understanding classroom interactions is a complex process. This article explores what conversation analysis (CA) and sociocultural theory of learning (SCT) can contribute to that process. The exploration is carried out through analyses of interactions between Brian, a five-year-old boy, and Ms Nikora, his teacher, during a nine-hour social studies curriculum unit in a New Zealand classroom. CA and SCT may appear to be strange bedfellows, in that the former concerns itself with language use (how participants organize and manage conversations), while the latter concerns itself with language as mediation (how learning occurs), but they turn out to be useful partners. The analyses reveal at least three perspectives from which participants need to be understanding what is going on in classroom interactions in order to participate in them appropriately and learn through them: how people organize conversations, institutional talk, and how teachers and learners jointly construct learning opportunities.
Biological Mediators of Effect of Diet and Stress Reduction on Prostate Cancer
Authors: Saxe Gordon A. , Major Jacqueline M. , Westerberg Lindsey , Khandrika Srikrishna , Downs Tracy M.
Published: September 2008

Background. A 6-month pilot intervention trial was conducted to determine whether adoption of a plant-based diet, reinforced by stress reduction, could reduce the rate of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) increase, a marker of disease progression, in asymptomatic, hormonally untreated patients experiencing consistently increasing PSA levels after surgery or radiation. Methods. A pre—post design was used to examine (1) the effect of intervention on potential mediators of disease progression, including body composition and weight-related biomarkers (sex steroid hormones and cytokines), and (2) whether changes in these variables were associated with change in rate of PSA increase. The baseline rate of PSA increase (from the time of posttreatment recurrence to the start of intervention) was ascertained from medical records. Body composition and biomarkers were assessed at baseline (prior to intervention), during the intervention (3 months), and at the end of the intervention (6 months). Changes in body composition and biomarkers were determined and compared with rates of PSA increase over the corresponding time intervals. Results. There was a significant reduction in waist-to-hip ratio ( P = .03) and increase in circulating sex hormone binding globulin ( P = .04). The rate of PSA increase decreased from the preintervention period (PSA slope = 0.059) to the period from 0 to 3 months (PSA slope = 0.002, P < .01) and increased slightly, although not significantly, from 0 to 3 months to the period from 3 to 6 months (0.029, P = .43). Conclusions. Adoption of a plant-based diet and stress reduction may reduce central adiposity and improve the hormonal milieu in patients with recurrent PC. Changes in the rate of increase in PSA were in the same direction as changes in waist-to-hip ratio and opposite those of sex hormone binding globulin, raising the possibility that the effect of the intervention may have been mediated, in part, by these variables.
Sentido de Pertenencia
Authors: Lamont Strayhorn Terrell
Published: September 2008

The present study estimated the influence of academic and social collegiate experiences on Latino students' sense of belonging, controlling for background differences, using hierarchical analysis techniques with a nested design. In addition, results were compared between Latino students and their White counterparts. Findings reveal that grades, time spent studying, and interactions with diverse peers affect sense of belonging, accounting for approximately 11% of Latino students' belonging. Differences were found between Latino and White students. Important implications are discussed.
Language and Opportunity in the “Land of Opportunity”
Authors: Thorstensson Dávila Liv
Published: September 2008

This study analyzes the goals and realities of four educated, working, adult Latina, English as a Second language (ESL) students living in North Carolina, a region seeing particularly intense migration of Latino immigrants. The study conceptually frames adjustment issues confronted by these Latina immigrants in terms of gender, language, geography, their educational and professional backgrounds, and current experiences and expectations. It concludes by offering social justice—oriented approaches to teaching English to Latina adults.
A Case Report of Recurrent Salmonella Meningitis in an Adult AIDS Patient in the United States
Authors: Vaughn Sarah , Pearce Daniel D.
Published: September 2008

The authors present a case of Salmonella sepsis and meningitis with a recurrence of the meningitis in a 36-year-old Hispanic, male AIDS patient. They discuss the mechanisms and routes in general and speculate on these items in this patient from the information available. Meningitis diagnosis and treatment in general and specifically in Salmonella cases are reviewed as well as the variations in AIDS patients. The probable reasons for the recurrence and etiology are discussed.
Effect of Postpartum HIV Treatment Discontinuation on Long-Term Maternal Outcome
Authors: Önen Nur F. , Nurutdinova Diana , Sungkanuparph Somnuek , Gase Debra , Mondy Kristin , Overton E. Turner
Published: September 2008

Background. Long-term maternal outcomes after postpartum antiretroviral therapy (ART) discontinuation are unknown. Methods. Retrospective review of pregnancies in HIV-infected women on treatment between 1997 and 2005. Women were grouped by postpartum ART use and followed until new opportunistic infection (OI), death or last clinic visit. Results. Of 172 pregnancies, postpartum ART discontinuation occurred in 123 (71.5%) women and was associated with greater parity, no partner during pregnancy, and no indication for OI prophylaxis or preconception ART in multivariate analysis (P < .05). Median follow-up was 32.5 months after delivery. There were 12 OIs and 2 deaths; 10 OIs and both deaths occurred in women who had discontinued ART. Conclusion. Postpartum ART discontinuation is common, especially among those with less advanced HIV disease, but may leave women at increased risk of long term adverse outcomes. This study highlights the need for larger longitudinal studies to determine appropriate recommendations for postpartum ART administration.
Impact of Free Primary Education in Kenya
Authors: Tooley James , Dixon Pauline , Stanfield James
Published: September 2008

Free primary education (FPE) is widely assumed to be required to ensure that the poor gain enrolment. After the introduction of FPE (from January 2003) in Kenyan schools, huge increases in enrolment were officially reported. However, our research, conducted 10 months after the introduction of FPE in and around the informal settlement of Kibera, Nairobi, suggests a less beneficial outcome. Although enrolment had increased in government primary schools, this needs to be balanced against a much larger reported decrease in enrolment in private schools in the informal settlement—the research found 76 private schools, enrolling 12,132 students, which are not on the official list of schools. Moreover, focus groups with parents reported dissatisfaction with government schools, and satisfaction with private schools, since FPE. The findings point to an alternative route to ensuring `education for all', by embracing, rather than ignoring, the role currently played by the private sector.
Degassing of magnesium alloy by rotating impeller degasser: Part 1 – Mathematical modelling
Authors: Hu Z. C. , Zhang E. L. , Zeng S. Y.
Published: September 2008

A mathematical model was used to simulate the removal of hydrogen from magnesium alloy by a rotary impeller. It has been shown that the degassing efficiency is mainly dependent on the total surface area of the inert gas bubbles that is related to the rotation speed and the gas flowrate as well as the design of the impeller. An oxygen/water system was used to determine the total surface area of the inert gas bubbles experimentally. Finally, degassing experiments were carried out on magnesium melt to verify the mathematical model. Excellent agreement was obtained between the model predicted and the measured degassing efficiency. It was concluded that this model and the oxygen/water system are suitable to predicate the removal of hydrogen from magnesium alloy by the rotary impeller, and are also useful to the design of the impeller and the research of the effect of the processing parameters.
Synthesis mechanism and properties of Mg–Mg2Ni composite hydrogen storage alloy produced by hydriding combustion synthesis
Authors: Liu D. M. , Zhu Y. F. , Li L. Q.
Published: September 2008

Hydriding combustion synthesis (HCS) has been regarded as an innovative process to produce magnesium based hydrogen storage alloys. In the present paper, a Mg–Mg2Ni composite hydrogen storage alloy was prepared by the HCS process under moderate conditions. Phase composition, synthesis mechanism and hydrogen storage properties were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and pressure composition temperature (PCT). The results indicated that the HCS product was composed mainly of MgH2, Mg2NiH4 and Mg2NiH0·3. A gas–solid reaction mechanism played an important role in the HCS process. The hydriding activity of the as synthesised product was very high so that it absorbed 4·61 mass% hydrogen in the first hydriding process without any activation treatment and the maximum hydrogen storage capacity achieved was 5·24 mass%. Moreover, the hydriding rate was excellent. For example, it could absorb >3·20 and 4·05 mass% hydrogen within 4 min in the first and forth hydriding/dehydriding cycle respectively. The relationships between the plateau pressure and temperature were: lg P(0·1 MPa)=−4250·5/ T+7·9635 (hydriding), lg P(0·1 MPa)=−4125·4/ T+7·6502 (dehydriding) for the lower plateau, and lg P(0·1 MPa)=−2894·6/ T+5·9656 (hydriding), lg P(0·1 MPa)=−3855·9/ T+7·3435 (dehydriding) for the higher plateau.
Down-regulation of hepcidin in porphyria cutanea tarda
Authors: Ajioka Richard S. , Phillips John D. , Weiss Robert B. , Dunn Diane M. , Smit Maria W. , Proll Sean C. , Katze Michael G. , Kushner James P.
Published: September 2008

Hepatic siderosis is common in patients with porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT). Mutations in the hereditary hemochromatosis (hh) gene (HFE) explain the siderosis in approximately 20% patients, suggesting that the remaining occurrences result from additional genetic and environmental factors. Two genes known to modify iron loading in hh are hepcidin (HAMP) and hemojuvelin (HJV). To determine if mutations in or expression of these genes influenced iron overload in PCT, we compared sequences of HAMP and HJV in 96 patients with PCT and 88 HFE C282Y homozygotes with marked hepatic iron overload. We also compared hepatic expression of these and other iron-related genes in a group of patients with PCT and hh. Two intronic polymorphisms in HJV were associated with elevated serum ferritin in HFE C282Y homozygotes. No exonic polymorphisms were identified. Sequencing of HAMP revealed exonic polymorphisms in 2 patients with PCT: heterozygosity for a G→A transition (G71D substitution) in one and heterozygosity for an A→G transition (K83R substitution) in the other. Hepatic HAMP expression in patients with PCT was significantly reduced, regardless of HFE genotype, when compared with patients with hh but without PCT with comparable iron overload. These data indicate that the hepatic siderosis associated with PCT likely results from dysregulated HAMP.
Genetic perturbation of the putative cytoplasmic membrane-proximal salt bridge aberrantly activates α4 integrins
Authors: Imai Yoichi , Park Eun Jeong , Peer Dan , Peixoto António , Cheng Guiying , von Andrian Ulrich H. , Carman Christopher V. , Shimaoka Motomu
Published: September 2008

α4 integrins play a pivotal role in leukocyte migration and tissue-specific homing. The ability of integrins to bind ligand is dynamically regulated by activation-dependent conformational changes triggered in the cytoplasmic domain. An NMR solution structure defined a putative membrane-proximal salt bridge between the αIIbβ3 integrin cytoplasmic tails, which restrains integrins in their low-affinity state. However, the physiological importance of this salt bridge in α4 integrin regulation remains to be elucidated. To address this question, we disrupted the salt bridge in murine germ line by mutating the conserved cytoplasmic arginine RGFFKR in α4 integrins. In lymphocytes from knock-in mice (α4-R/AGFFKR), α4β1 and α4β7 integrins exhibited constitutively up-regulated ligand binding. However, transmigration of these cells across VCAM-1 and MAdCAM-1 substrates, or across endothelial monolayers, was reduced. Perturbed detachment of the tail appeared to cause the reduced cell migration of α4-R/AGFFKR lymphocytes. In vivo, α4-R/AGFFKR cells exhibited increased firm adhesion to Peyer patch venules but reduced homing to the gut. Our results demonstrate that the membrane-proximal salt bridge plays a critical role in supporting proper α4 integrin adhesive dynamics. Loss of this interaction destabilizes the nonadhesive conformation, and thereby perturbs the properly balanced cycles of adhesion and deadhesion required for efficient cell migration.
Dendritic cells drive memory CD8 T-cell homeostasis via IL-15 transpresentation
Authors: Stonier Spencer W. , Ma Lisa J. , Castillo Eliseo F. , Schluns Kimberly S.
Published: September 2008

Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is crucial for the development of naive and memory CD8 T cells and is delivered through a mechanism called transpresentation. Previous studies showed that memory CD8 T cells require IL-15 transpresentation by an as yet unknown cell of hematopoietic origin. We hypothesized that dendritic cells (DCs) transpresent IL-15 to CD8 T cells, and we examined this by developing a transgenic model that limits IL-15 transpresentation to DCs. In this study, IL-15 transpresentation by DCs had little effect on restoring naive CD8 T cells but contributed to the development of memory-phenotype CD8 T cells. The generation of virus-specific, memory CD8 T cells was partially supported by IL-15Rα+ DCs through the preferential enhancement of a subset of KLRG-1+CD27− CD8 T cells. In contrast, these DCs were largely sufficient in driving normal homeostatic proliferation of established memory CD8 T cells, suggesting that memory CD8 T cells grow more dependent on IL-15 transpresentation by DCs. Overall, our study clearly supports a role for DCs in memory CD8 T-cell homeostasis but also provides evidence that other hematopoietic cells are involved in this function. The identification of DCs fulfilling this role will enable future studies to better focus on mechanisms regulating T-cell homeostasis.
HapMap scanning of novel human minor histocompatibility antigens
Authors: Kamei Michi , Nannya Yasuhito , Torikai Hiroki , Kawase Takakazu , Taura Kenjiro , Inamoto Yoshihiro , Takahashi Taro , Yazaki Makoto , Morishima Satoko , Tsujimura Kunio , Miyamura Koichi , Ito Tetsuya , Togari Hajime , Riddell Stanley R. , Kodera Yoshihisa , Morishima Yasuo , Takahashi Toshitada , Kuzushima Kiyotaka , Ogawa Seishi , Akatsuka Yoshiki
Published: September 2008

Minor histocompatibility antigens (mHags) are molecular targets of allo-immunity associated with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and involved in graft-versus-host disease, but they also have beneficial antitumor activity. mHags are typically defined by host SNPs that are not shared by the donor and are immunologically recognized by cytotoxic T cells isolated from post-HSCT patients. However, the number of molecularly identified mHags is still too small to allow prospective studies of their clinical importance in transplantation medicine, mostly due to the lack of an efficient method for isolation. Here we show that when combined with conventional immunologic assays, the large data set from the International HapMap Project can be directly used for genetic mapping of novel mHags. Based on the immunologically determined mHag status in HapMap panels, a target mHag locus can be uniquely mapped through whole genome association scanning taking advantage of the unprecedented resolution and power obtained with more than 3 000 000 markers. The feasibility of our approach could be supported by extensive simulations and further confirmed by actually isolating 2 novel mHags as well as 1 previously identified example. The HapMap data set represents an invaluable resource for investigating human variation, with obvious applications in genetic mapping of clinically relevant human traits.
NF-kappaB mediates the survival of human bronchial epithelial cells exposed to cigarette smoke extract
Authors: Liu Xiangde , Togo Shinsaku , Al-Mugotir Mona , Kim Huijung , Fang QiuHong , Kobayashi Tetsu , Wang XingQi , Mao Lijun , Bitterman Peter , Rennard Stephen
Published: September 2008

Background

We have previously reported that low concentrations of cigarette smoke extract induce DNA damage without leading to apoptosis or necrosis in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs), and that IL-6/STAT3 signaling contributes to the cell survival. Since NF-κB is also involved in regulating apoptosis and cell survival, the current study was designed to investigate the role of NF-κB in mediating cell survival in response to cigarette smoke exposure in HBECs.

Methods

Both the pharmacologic inhibitor of NF-κB, curcumin, and RNA interference targeting p65 were used to block NF-κB signaling in HBECs. Apoptosis and cell survival were then assessed by various methods including COMET assay, LIVE/DEAD Cytotoxicity/Viability assay and colony formation assay.

Results

Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) caused DNA damage and cell cycle arrest in S phase without leading to apoptosis in HBECs as evidenced by TUNEL assay, COMET assay and DNA content assay. CSE stimulated NF-κB -DNA binding activity and up-regulated Bcl-XL protein in HBECs. Inhibition of NF-κB by the pharmacologic inhibitor curcumin (20 μM) or suppression of p65 by siRNA resulted in a significant increase in cell death in response to cigarette smoke exposure. Furthermore, cells lacking p65 were incapable of forming cellular colonies when these cells were exposed to CSE, while they behaved normally in the regular culture medium.

Conclusion

The current study demonstrates that CSE activates NF-κB and up-regulates Bcl-XL through NF-kB activation in HBECs, and that CSE induces cell death in cells lacking p65. These results suggest that activation of NF-κB regulates cell survival following DNA damage by cigarette smoke in human bronchial epithelial cells.