bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study of shift work and risk of coronary events
Authors: Ellingsen T. , Bener A. , Gehani A.A. 
Published: November 2007

Background: The effects of shift work on coronary heart diseases (CHD) are well described. Most of the studies on coronary events in shift workers are supportive of the hypothesis that they are at increased risk. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the relation shift work has to risk of CHD in a cohort of men from different Asian races working in a fertilizer plant in the Middle East. Design: This is a case series of cohort study. Subjects: The medical records for 2562 staff employed at the plant, from the start of the company in 1972 till 2003, were surveyed. Of these, 648 were shift workers and 1914 were daytime workers. A total of 223 employees had cardiovascular event. Methods: For each case we recorded the date and age at start of employment, and the age at the time of diagnosis. Data from their last medical examination in the company were used to calculate their BMI, and to register whether they were smokers, had diabetes, or were senior or intermediate staff. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed. Results: The incidence of CHD is significantly higher in shift workers (13.5%) compared with the daytime workers (7.1%). Also, there was a statistically significant difference between shift workers and daytime workers concerning hypertension and cerebrovascular incidents. Conclusion: Our results suggest the possibility of an overall relationship between shift work and cardiovascular diseases.
Coherent Properties of Quantum Dot Two‐Level Systems
Authors: Zrenner Artur , Stufler Stefan , Ester Patrick , Bichler Max 
Published: November 2007

AbstractIn a single self‐assembled InGaAs quantum dot, the one‐exciton ground‐state transition defines a two‐level system, which appears as an extremely narrow resonance of only a few μeV width. The resonant interaction of this two‐level system with cw laser fields can be studied in detail by photocurrent spectroscopy, revealing the fine structure of the excitonic ground state as well as the effects of nonlinear absorption and power broadening. For the case of pulsed laser fields and in the absence of decoherence, the two‐level system represents a qubit. Excitations with ps laser pulses result in qubit rotations, which appear as Rabi oscillations in photocurrent experiments. Double pulse experiments further allow us to infer the decoherence time and to perform coherent control on a two level system.
ESR Microscopy and Nanoscopy with “Induction” Detection
Authors: Blank Aharon , Freed Jack H. 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThe current state‐of‐the‐art in the fields of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) micro‐imaging is reviewed. Special attention is given to the uniqueness and the advantages of the conventional “induction” detection method with respect to other emerging sensitive magnetic resonance detection and imaging techniques. Following this, a theoretical description of the factors affecting the sensitivity and resolution in induction detection ESR is provided. Based on the theory, new approaches to substantially improve ESR capabilities, both at room temperature and at low cryogenic temperatures, are discussed. Representative results of experiments conducted at room temperature and at frequencies of 10–16 GHz show that with test samples, a sensitivity of ∼107electron spins and a resolution of ∼3 microns are currently available. The results confirm the validity of the theoretical approach and confirm the value of striving for even higher frequencies and lower temperatures, in order to further improve the performance Finally, some of the current and potential applications of ESR microscopy and nanoscopy (involving imaging with a resolution of ∼100 nm or better) are presented.
Mercury
Authors: Clarkson Thomes W. 
Published: November 2007

New findings on the environmental fate of Hg indicate that lakes can be contaminated by long distance transport on mercury vapor in the atmosphere and that higher levels of Me Hg in fish are associated with acidification of lakes and with the creation of hydroelectric reservoirs. Considerable progress has been made in the understanding of the disposition and metabolism of mercury in the body. Inhaled mercury vapor rapidly enters cells in view of its lipid solubility. Inside the cell, it is oxidized by the enzyme, catalase, to inorganic divalent mercury. The latter may be the proximate toxic species. Me Hg also crosses cell membranes rapidly but, in this case, probably by forming water-soluble complexes whose structures mimic those of endogenous substrates that are transported on specific carriers. The mechanism of damage to the central nervous system by mercury vapor is still unknown. The kidney damage probably arises from the effect of inorganic mercury on immunocompetent cells causing them to produce antibodies that affect the glomerulus. The selective damage by Me Hg to specific anatomical areas of the brain and the long latent period are still unexplained. Most studies have focused on the earliest biochemical lesion, the inhibition of protein synthesis. Prenatal damage occurs in all areas of the developing brain. Cell division and abnormal neuronal migration are the processes primarily affected. The destruction of microtubules in neuronal and astrocystic cells offers a plausible explanation of the deranged cytoarchitecture. Prenatal effects such as delays in the normal development of prenatally exposed infants occur at exposures substantially lower than those associated with the onset of adult poisoning.
Epidemiology and Toxicology of Volatile Organic Chemical Contaminants in Water Absorbed Through the Skin
Authors: Thomas Richard D. 
Published: November 2007

This paper provides a general introduction to the occurrence, epidemiology, and toxicity of some of the most common contaminants of water supplies, the volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). The VOCs are formed from the reaction of chlorine during disinfection with naturally occurring carbon in the form of humic acids. The VOCs may also enter water supplies as a result of manufacturing, processing, distribution, and urban and agricultural run off. Their occurrence is summarized in this paper. No epidemiologic studies examine the health effects where skin is the sole route of exposure. However, in several studies skin is one of the routes of exposure for VOCs. These are summarized in this paper. Finally, the toxicity of some of the more important VOCs is summarized. Where possible, similarities in toxicity between individual members of this class of chemical contaminants are noted. There are striking similarities of toxicity of various VOCs in the liver, kidney, and hematopoietic system. These similarities should be considered as skin exposure models are being developed.
Screens in Neurotoxicity: Objectives, Design, and Analysis, with the Functional Observational Battery as a Case Example
Authors: Gad Shayne C. 
Published: November 2007

Screening tests for detecting the presence or probable absence of a single end point (such as neurobehavioral activity) are the most common and important activities in toxicology. Objectives and characteristics of screens are presented and reviewed here, and the corresponding essential design features of a neurotoxicology screen are suggested. It is pointed out that such screens should function as the initial phase in some form of multitier process and that they would be most efficiently and effectively performed and accurately interpreted by incorporation into existing study designs. Also presented are the objectives of an analysis of data from screens and the essential relationship of such analysis to those objectives. The types of data encountered are reviewed, along with traditional and alternative approaches to data analysis and their operating characteristics. Finally, the different current forms of neurotoxicity screens (both primary and secondary) are summarized. The functional observational battery and its history, performance, and limitations are presented in light of the proposed principles as an example case for screening.
A Toxicologist's Viewpoint of the Quality of Computer-Captured Data and Data Audits
Authors: Siconolfi Richard M. 
Published: November 2007

As computers become more common in toxicology laboratories, the need of handwritten data decreases. The good laboratory practice standards taught the toxicology community to prepare adequate standard operating procedures and how to document all phases of a nonclinical laboratory study. Have computers helped us with our SOPs or documentation? Maybe. Computers have streamlined many of the mundane tasks in data collection. However, they have also opened up a whole list of problems: data security, data audits, computer-generated backups, technician training and periodic updates, system validation (software, hardware, and data), and “data thieves.” A system of checks and balances must be developed, implemented, and reviewed constantly to assure the quality of data collected. This cannot be the responsibility of one person or one department but requires input from many, the cooperation of all, and support from management, without which quality would suffer.
An Overview of GLP Implementation in Europe
Authors: Falconi Giovanni , Goeke Jane E. , Morris Carl R. 
Published: November 2007

GLP implementation in Europe is complicated by a “diversified” approach. European toxicology testing facilities must be aware not only of their own national regulations but also of the requirements of other European countries as well as several significant non-European nationalities (the United States and Japan). This presentation briefly describes four EEC directives pertaining to GLP implementation in Europe. These directives provide for (1) performance of audits and inspections by member states; (2) EEC distribution of information regarding GLP compliance; (3) harmonization of inspections and unification of criteria; (4) certification of GLP compliance; and (5) provision of mechanisms to adapt the directives to technical progress.
A NORMATIVE STUDY OF AIRFLOW IN CHILDREN
Authors: Beckett Ralph L. , Thoelke William , Cowan Linda 
Published: November 2007

AbstractSeven‐year‐old youngsters from the University of Missouri at Columbia Laboratory School were subjects for the measurement of vital capacity, phonation air volume, maximum phonation time, and mean flow rate. The children phonated maximally into a respirometer. The group often boys was quite similar in most respects to the group of ten girls. Although certain clear differences were found, they did not achieve high significance with t‐tests. The smaller mean flow rate for the girls is discussed in the light of recent experimental findings.
DOCUMENTATION OF SYNDACTYLY AND TREACHER COLLINS SYNDROME FOR POSSIBLE CONCOMITANT SPEECH DISORDERS
Authors: Massengill Raymond , Willis Viola , Gertner Linda , Fetterolf Judy 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThe speech characteristics of four syndactylyly patients and five Treacher Collins patients are described. Each patient was given a battery of tests including X‐ray analysis, articulation tests, a diadochokinetic rate analysis, to evaluate the speech proficiency and the functioning of the periphreal speech mechanism.Because of the wide range of associated defects, many involving the speech mechanism, often accompanying these two congenital anomalies, this study does indicate that such cases should be seen and studied by the speech pathologist.
THE ROLE OF AUDIOMETRY IN THE REHABILITATION OF THE LARYNGECTOMIZED PATIENT
Authors: Harrison Robert J. 
Published: November 2007

SummaryHearing loss is the most prevalent handicap in the general population and it is a problem that increases in frequency with increase in age. Because most laryngectomized patients are middle‐aged or older males and because of the alteration in the anatomy and physiology during surgery, audiometry can play a vital role in rehabilitation.The benefits of accurate audiometry are: 1—objective evidence regarding otologic management and its effectiveness; 2—ruling out of hypacusis as a deterrent to esophageal speech progress or mastery of the artificial larynx and 3—utilization of amplification techniques during transient periods of acute middle ear problems. The communicative disorder specialist is the logical professional to conduct this audiometric monitoring but adequate management of the patient involves the close teamwork of the speech pathologist, the audiologist and the otolaryngologist.
A NOTE ON REDUCED AUDITORY PAIN THRESHOLD IN 44 STUTTERING CHILDREN
Authors: MacCulloch Malcolm J. , Eaton Rayleen 
Published: November 2007

AbstractThe threshold of auditory pain has been measured in 44 children referred for stuttering and in 44 control children matched for age and taken from schools in the same geographical area. Pure tone sound was applied via headphones over frequencies from 60 Hz to 300 Hz, across a power range from zero to 250 milli watts. The data consisted of threshold figures at 9 frequencies for 35 boys and 9 girls both in the experimental group and the control group.Statistical analysis showed that pain threshold in stutterers is lower than for non‐stutters in the groups as a whole, and then when each group is sub‐divided for sex, the females have a lower threshold than do the males. When the results are dichotomised in this way, there is still no overlap between stutterers' and non‐stutterers' threshold.All the threshold curves have a negative slope with frequency, the thresholds being lowest at 300 Hz.These data are a new finding, which requires confirmation; they lend weight to those theories of stuttering which state that stuttering has a pathophysiological basis. The possible site of such an abnormality is discussed.
Variations in Voice Quality with Laryngeal Tumours and Radiotherapy of the Larynx
Authors: ORR N. M. , BSC M. D. HAMILTON , GLENNIE J. McD. 
Published: November 2007

Vocal characteristics of a number of patients who had radiotherapy for laryngeal tumours were obtained. It was found that voice quality before treatment was not indicative of the site and stage of the disease. Voice quality after treatment was usually fairly good.A formula is given for quantitative estimates of hoarseness and is followed by a brief discussion on some of its physical causes.
Class Talk
Authors: HONEYFORD R. 
Published: November 2007

The linguistic problems of working class children in schools which are essentially middle‐class in their language and cultural expectations have been highlighted by the work of Bernstein and Lawton. The inter‐dependence of language and cognitive growth is also now well documented. But there is little to show how the two groups of significant adults in children's lives ‐ parents and teachers ‐ compare in their linguistic competence and habits.It was postulated that in making the transition from home to school pupils in a comprehensive school serving a working‐class area of the north‐west were involved in a process of linguistic adaptation. Two groups were chosen at random after stratifying. These consisted of ten teachers sub‐divided into 2times5 groups to represent Arts and Science; and fifteen parents stratified into 3times5 sub‐groups to represent the three ability streams into which the school at that time segregated its pupils.Speech samples were recorded for both groups in standardised, non‐directed group discussions and individual interviews. These were then transcribed and analysed. The analysis was of limited focus ‐ only certain structural and lexical items were considered ‐ phonetic qualities and errors were ignored. The categories into which the speech was analysed corresponded to those of the Elaborated and Restricted Codes postulated by Bernstein.Twenty‐five categories were compared and, by means of non‐parametric statistics the significance of the differences between the performances of the groups and sub‐groups, were evaluated. The direction and magnitude of the differences were as predicted in twenty‐three of the categories. Within the limitations imposed by such small samples the hypothesis was considered to be confirmed.This finding has significance for all those who handle working‐class children either for educational purposes or remediation. An awareness of the structural and lexical gulf between the speech of middle‐class adults and the working‐class child is indispensable for effective communication ‐ a systematic investigation of pronunciation and accent differences would probably indicate that the linguistic gulf is greater than that revealed by the present study.
Perception of Rhythmic Sequences by Receptive Aphasic and Deaf Children
Authors: KRACKE ILSE 
Published: November 2007

SummaryThree groups of carefully selected children, twelve with severe receptive aphasia, twelve with profound hearing loss and twelve unimpaired controls were given the task of discriminating between simple rhythmic sequences. The results of the aphasic children were very poor whereas the deaf and the control children did not differ significantly. The disability of the aphasics was found to transcend the auditory modality. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
The Effect of Therapy Given in Hebrew on the Home Language of the Bilingual or Polyglot Adult Aphasic in Israel
Authors: FREDMAN MARION 
Published: November 2007

SummaryA group of 40 bilingual or polygot adult aphasics in Haifa, Israel, were tested and retested after three months speech therapy conducted in Hebrew. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of therapy given in Hebrew on the patient's home language. The Wepman and Jones Language Modality Test of Aphasia (L.M.T.A.) was adapted and translated into Hebrew. A home language questionnaire was also devised in order to compare results before and after therapy both in Hebrew and in the patient's home language. The correlation coefficient between the results on the L.M.T.A. and the patient's home language were significantly high. The results suggest that therapy in Hebrew had a positive effect on the patient's skill in communication in his home language.
A Structured Approach Teaching Aphasics Basic Sentence Types*
Authors: NAESER MARGARET A. 
Published: November 2007

SummaryThis study investigated a structured approach teaching three basic sentence types (b.s.t.) to adult aphasics. The three types: verb form, to be; verb, transitive; and verb, intransitive are used in applied linguistics and transformational grammar material in teaching English as a second language to foreign adults. Aphasics were selected for the study on the basis of good verbal output and auditory input scores measured by the PICA. Subjects were given a pre‐ and post‐test measuring verbal syntactic performance for the three b.s.t.'s. They participated in a one month therapy program which presented these sentence types. All improved in the post‐test in verbal production of each b.s.t., as well as pattern carryover, and subject/verb agreement. This type of therapy approach is offered as a possible future part of a programmed language rehabilitation program similar to that which Holland (1970) has suggested.
Therapeutic and Diagnostic Applications of Delayed Auditory Feedback
Authors: McCormick Barry 
Published: November 2007

SummaryFor many years the principles of Delayed Auditory Feedback (D.A.F.) have been utilised: (a) in test for investigating non‐organic hearing problems and (b) as a therapeutic aid to increase the oral fluency of stutterers.With reference to (a) above, if D.A.F. is to be of true value as a test for providing definitive information about the normality or otherwise, of a subject's auditory thresholds, then it is desirable that any subjective judgments of the effects on a person's voice, should be replaced by a quantifiable measure.It has been suggested that timing the reading of a passage may be useful for this purpose. Another approach is to measure the effects on the intensity of a subject's voice. A procedure was devised by the author to assess the value, if any, of the latter two measurements on a sample of 25 normally hearing subjects and on two cases with suspected non‐organic hearing problems. A very clear pattern emerged for all the cases tested. It was found that if a relatively long delay time of two‐thirds of a second was used, then at feedback levels in excess of 60 dB, a very marked effect could be detected on the subject's voice level, and furthermore, the voice increased progressively as the intensity of the feedback signal was increased. Although it would appear logical that this should be the case, here the magnitude of the effect was being scrutinised.The author believes that such measurements of the effects of D.A.F. on a subject's voice level might provide useful indications to the integrity of a subject's speech feedback loop. This may be of diagnostic significance when investigating the monitoring systems of stutterers and patients with various voice disorders.At delay times as long as two‐thirds of a second, the Lombard Voice Reflex, and the effects of D.A.F. will interact in a complex way, and the resulting experience may be more beneficial to stutterers than either of the more familiar methods of (1) administering D.A.F. at shorter delay times or (2) masking a stutterer's voice with an external source of noise.Brief discussion of the terminology used to describe non‐organic hearing problems; the studies of the effects of D.A.F. on stutterers; and the Lombard Voice Reflex is included.
Characteristics and Progress of a Group of Language Disordered Children with Severe Receptive Difficulties
Authors: Petrie Ian 
Published: November 2007

SummaryThis paper presents data concerned with the characteristics and progress of eleven children with severe receptive language difficulties attending a residential special school. Observations and standardised test results were obtained relating to hearing and listening behaviour, social adjustment, motor co‐ordination, visual‐spatial and sequencing skills, non‐verbal intelligence and language behaviour. In general the reliability of the measurements employed appeared to be reasonably satisfactory.All the children were impaired in listening skills and had difficulties in language acquisition, but in other respects they showed a wide range of individual problems. Improvement was measured by means of test‐retest analyses. Those children who gained higher initial ratings in listening behaviour, language ability and social adjustment made more progress in language development. However in spite of very favourable teaching conditions the progress made by this sample of children in spoken language acquisition during the period of the study was generally very small.