bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Snowmelt-Related Flood Risk in Appalachia: First Estimates from a Historical Snow Climatology
Authors: Graybeal Daniel Y. , Leathers Daniel J.
Published: March 2006

A first attempt has been made toward quantifying the risk of snowmelt-related flooding in the central and southern Appalachian Mountains of the United States (from 35° to 42°N). In the last decade, two major events occurred within the region, prompting this study. Snowfall and snow depth data were collected from the cooperative observer network, quality controlled, and summarized at seasonal resolution (December–March). For establishing regional patterns, the period of 1971–2000 was selected. For testing fits of candidate probability distributions, and for focusing on the sparsely sampled higher elevations, this criterion was relaxed to include as many data from the mid- to late century as were reasonably admissible. Results indicate that the two-parameter Gumbel distribution fit best both the seasonal total snowfall and seasonal maximum snow depth. That distribution was then used to map return periods associated with critical seasonal snowfall and maximum snow depth masses. Seasonal snowfall amounts linked to a role for snowmelt in flooding were found to occur at return periods of from 2–5 yr in Pennsylvania and West Virginia to 10–200 yr in North Carolina. More generally, at elevations of at least 600 m throughout the region, return periods of 10–25 yr were estimated for critical levels of two flood-related criteria: seasonal total snowfall and maximum snow depth. In addition to providing valuable climatological information to aid forecasters and analysts, the results also support the need for further work toward understanding the role of snow in Appalachian floods.
Modeling of the Coastal Boundary Layer and Pollutant Transport in New England
Authors: Angevine Wayne M. , Tjernström Michael , Žagar Mark
Published: March 2006

Concentrations of ozone exceeding regulatory standards are regularly observed along the coasts of New Hampshire and Maine in summer. These events are primarily caused by the transport of pollutants from urban areas in Massachusetts and farther south and west. Pollutant transport is most efficient over the ocean. The coastline makes transport processes complex because it makes the structure of the atmospheric boundary layer complex. During pollution episodes, the air over land in daytime is warmer than the sea surface, so air transported from land over water becomes statically stable and the formerly well-mixed boundary layer separates into possibly several layers, each transported in a different direction. This study examines several of the atmospheric boundary layer processes involved in pollutant transport. A three-dimensional model [the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS)] run on grids of 2.5 and 7.5 km is used to examine the winds, thermodynamic structure, and structure of tracer plumes emitted from Boston, Massachusetts, and New York City, New York, in two different real cases—one dominated by large-scale transport (22–23 July 2002) and one with important mesoscale effects (11–14 August 2002). The model simulations are compared with measurements taken during the 2002 New England Air Quality Study. The model simulates the basic structure of the two different episodes well. The boundary layer stability over the cold water is weaker in the model than in reality. The tracer allows for easy visualization of the pollutant transport.
The Engagement Model of Person-Environment Interaction
Authors: Neufeld Jason E. , Rasmussen Heather N. , Lopez Shane J. , Ryder Jamie A. , Magyar-Moe Jeana L. , Ford Alicia Ito , Edwards Lisa M. , Bouwkamp Jennifer C.
Published: February 2006

This article focuses on growth-promoting aspects in the environment, and the authors propose a strength-based, dynamic model of person-environment interaction. The authors begin by briefly discussing the typical recognition of contextual variables in models that rely on the concept of person-environment fit. This is followed by a review of recent approaches to incorporating positive environmental factors in conceptualizations of human functioning. These approaches lead to an alternative model of personenvironment interaction in which the engagement construct (i.e., the quality of a personenvironment relationship determined by the extent to which negotiation, participation, and evaluation processes occur during the interaction) replaces the static notion of fit. Finally, the authors outline recommendations for overcoming environmental neglect in research, practice, and training.
Positive Psychology
Authors: Mollen Debra , Ethington Lanaya L. , Ridley Charles R.
Published: February 2006

Why has the specialty of counseling psychology been overlooked in the larger conversation about positive psychology? Is it reasonable that counseling psychology claims positive psychology as its own? What are some of the problems in defining positive psychology, and how does the lack of consensus around operationalization thwart discourse on this construct? In this reaction, the authors address these questions and pose implications for positive psychology beyond the typical applications to clients.
Possibility of Densification of Carbon-Carbon Composites with Coal Tar Pitch using Microwave Heating
Authors: Balik K. , Machovic V. , Polivka P. , Kolar F. , Svitilova J.
Published: March 2006

In this article, the possibilities of impregnation of C-C composites with coal tar pitches in a microwave field are discussed. The structural changes in the pitch are investigated by means of FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and XRD. The favorable effect of microwave heating is explained by structural changes which take place in situ during the impregnation. The spectroscopically proven splitting of large molecules improves flow properties of the pitch and facilitates the filling of the open pores. The structural changes in the pitch proceed quite rapidly so that the process is practically terminated in a relatively short time (after about 5 min) of the microwave action. Reduction of the porosity of the composites to a desired value can therefore be performed in several short steps. It seems that the method can reduce the costs of the preparation of C-C composites and render it more ecological.
Development, Mechanical Properties, and Fracture Toughness of Chilled Pb/Sb/Sn/As Alloy-Al2SiO5 (Kaolinite) Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Hemanth Joel
Published: March 2006

Qualitative tests of some of the lead alloys indicate that a fine grain structure with sufficient strength is necessary for various industrial applications. The presence of tin arsenide phase aids the maintenance of small grain sizes and a smooth spread with no pores. A more quantitative investigation has been undertaken in this study to enhance its mechanical properties and to determine the influence of various factors on the kinetics of grain growth of the lead-rich grains in the molten state. The study shows that developing Pb/Sb/Sn/As alloy-Al2SiO5 (kaolinite) composite and chilling during solidification are important in determining the microstructure and mechanical properties of the complex composite. Chilled lead alloy composite is produced for cable sheathing and as a roofing material for chemical industries, where strength and fine grain structure are demanded.

In this study, the size of Al2SiO5 particulates added varies between 50 and 100 mm and its content is varied from 3 to 12 by wt% in steps of 3%. Ingots are cast using vortex route method employing different types of end chills (made of copper, steel, cast iron, and silicon carbide, respectively) of 25 mm thick set in the mold to study the effect of volumetric heat capacity (VHC) of the chill on the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), fracture toughness, hardness, and microstructure of the composite. The superior mechanical properties of the composite developed, particularly its UTS, fracture toughness, and hardness are discussed in relation to their microstructure.

Results of the investigation reveal that there is good bonding throughout with consistency in the matrix and as the Al2SiO5 content is increased, the strength, fracture toughness, and hardness also increase remarkably.
Cultural Models, Socialization Goals, and Parenting Ethnotheories
Authors: Keller Heidi , Lamm Bettina , Abels Monika , Yovsi Relindis , Borke Jörn , Jensen Henning , Papaligoura Zaira , Holub Christina , Lo Wingshan , Tomiyama A. Janet , Su Yanjie , Wang Yifang , Chaudhary Nandita
Published: February 2006

This study conceptualizes a cultural model of parenting. It is argued that cultural models are expressed in the degree of familism, which informs socialization goals that are embodied in parenting ethnotheories. Three cultural models were differentiated a priori: independent, interdependent, and autonomous-related. Samples were recruited that were expected to represent these cultural models: German, Euro-American, and Greek middle-class women representing the independent cultural model; Cameroonian Nso and Gujarati farming women representing the interdependent cultural model; and urban Indian, urban Chinese, urban Mexican, and urban Costa Rican women representing the autonomous-related model. These a priori classifications were confirmed with data that addressed different levels of the cultural models of parenting. The authors further confirmed that socialization goals mediate between broader sociocultural orientations (familism) and parenting ethnotheories concerning beliefs about good parenting. The data reveal that the model of autonomous relatedness needs further theoretical and empirical refinement. Problems with empirical studies comparing participants with very different lifestyles are discussed.
Glocalization, Globalization and Migration
Authors: Giulianotti Richard , Robertson Roland
Published: March 2006

The concept of glocalization is used to analyse the ways in which social actors construct meanings, identities and institutional forms within the sociological context of globalization, conceived in multidimensional terms. This article seeks to advance the sociological grasp of glocalization processes through a field-work-rooted study of particular migrant, culturally defined social groups: North American-based supporters of the Scottish football teams Celtic and Rangers. The authors examine four features of glocalization in regard to the migrant experience: the transplantation of the original local culture to a new context; subsequent intracultural identities and practices; intercultural identities and practices; and the potential for the reproduction of ‘glocal’ identities. Further, they consider projects of glocalization that are attendant upon each of these features. A model is developed that facilitates future comparative and critical investigation in regard to the glocalization projects of social groups that are defined variously by ethnicity, migration or popular culture.
Gendered Occupations
Authors: Blackburn Robert M. , Jarman Jennifer
Published: March 2006

While the existence of occupational gender segregation is well known, it has been usual to see it as a reflection of women’s disadvantage. However, cross-national data show that the greater the segregation, the less tends to be women’s disadvantage. The solution to this puzzle entails the introduction of the two orthogonal dimensions of segregation, where only the vertical dimension measures inequality while the horizontal dimension measures difference without inequality. Furthermore, the two dimensions tend to be inversely related, with a tendency for the horizontal component to be larger and so have more effect on the resultant overall segregation; hence the inverse relation between overall segregation and inequality. The usual explanations of segregation, being focused on inequality, are inadequate. To understand the situation it is necessary to take account of the many related factors in social change, and to recognize that horizontal segregation reduces opportunities for gender discrimination within occupations. An exploratory test of the argument is conducted for the US, Canada and Britain. With pay as the vertical dimension the results are essentially as predicted. With CAMSIS, a measure of occupational advantage, a slight advantage lies with women. The test is less clear but consistent with the argument.
Adaptive Tracking Control for Robots with Unknown Kinematic and Dynamic Properties
Authors: Cheah C. C. , Liu C. , Slotine J. J. E.
Published: February 2006

It has been almost two decades since the first globally tracking convergent adaptive controllers were derived for robot with dynamic uncertainties. However, the problem of concurrent adaptation to both kinematic and dynamic uncertainties has never been systematically solved. This is the subject of this paper. We derive a new adaptive Jacobian controller for trajectory tracking of robot with uncertain kinematics and dynamics. It is shown that the robot endeffector is able to converge to a desired trajectory with the uncertain kinematics and dynamics parameters being updated online by parameter update laws. The algorithm requires only to measure the end-effector position, besides the robot's joint angles and joint velocities. The proposed controller can also be extended to adaptive visual tracking control with uncertain camera parameters, taking into consideration the uncertainties of the nonlinear robot kinematics and dynamics. Experimental results are presented to illustrate the performance of the proposed controllers. In the experiments, we demonstrate that the robot's shadow can be used to control the robot.
Carbon Nanofiber Hybrid Actuators: Part II - Solid Electrolyte-based
Authors: Yeo-Heung Yun , Miskin Atul , Kang Phil , Jain Sachin , Narasimhadevara Suhasini , Hurd Douglas , Shinde Vishal , Schulz Mark J. , Shanov Vesselin , He Peng , Boerio F. J. , Shi Donglu , Srivinas Subrahmin
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study (Part II) paper is to develop a dry actuator for wider application than the wet actuator. To form a dry actuator, a carbon nanofiber (CNF) actuator is based on a solid polymer electrolyte (SPE). The SPE film is prepared from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), an ion-exchange material, a plasticizer, and a solvent by the solution casting method. Ion conductivity studies were carried out to characterize the electrochemical properties of the SPE. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was performed to understand the electrochemical cell of the dry actuator. The actuator was tested in a dry environment at various voltages and frequencies and the tip displacement was measured using a laser displacement sensor. Compared to previous single wall carbon nanotube buckypaper actuators, the dry-based CNF actuator requires a little higher voltage to actuate, but it is two orders of magnitude lower in cost. Compared to the liquid-based actuator, the solid electrolyte-based actuator is slower and the displacements are smaller. These results have verified the principle of the CNF dry actuator. Further development of this new smart material could lead to practical smart structures applications in which the CNF hybrid material could be used as a muscle layer on structures, or as the structural material itself.
Effects of Champion Behavior, Team Potency, and External Communication Activities on Predicting Team Performance
Authors: Howell Jane M. , Shea Christine M.
Published: February 2006

This study used measures of champion behavior, team potency, and external communication activities to predict the performance of new product development teams over a 1-year period. Forty-one product innovations in 13 organizations were studied involving 41 champions, 41 executives to whom the champions reported, and 187 team members. Results from a partial least squares analysis indicated that champion behavior was positively related to team potency and to external communication activities and predicted team performance. The relationship between champion behavior and team performance 1 year later was mediated by team potency and two external communication activities (i.e., task coordinator and scout). Implications, limitations, and directions for further research on champions and teams are discussed.
The Best and the Brightest: The Construction, Significance and Effects of Elite Identities in Consulting Firms
Authors: Alvesson Mats , Robertson Maxine
Published: March 2006

The aim of this paper is to investigate the forms, significance and effects of elite identity constructions in four consulting firms based in the UK and Sweden. The paper examines a range of strategic and symbolic mechanisms that were used by the senior members and other actors of these firms to construct an elite organizational identity. In terms of general effects, an elite social identity was found to generate a ‘neoliberal’ form of governance in all of the cases such that consultants could be trusted to act and behave in the interests of the firm. We argue that elite constructions facilitated: (i) the promotion of self-discipline which sustained a want to accomplish high standards of performance; (ii) the attraction and retention of consultants; (iii) the securing of an image that clients were prepared to engage with; and (iv) a degree of ‘ontological security’—a relatively secure sense of self—which enabled consultants to function effectively in high-ambiguity and somewhat sceptical (with respect to clients) work contexts. In the contexts discussed here, consultants not only managed themselves, but they also intensified the commitment to live an organizational life that demanded high standards and often very long working days.
Whence Democracy? A Review and Critique of the Conceptual Dimensions and Implications of the Business Case for Organizational Democracy
Authors: Johnson Phil
Published: March 2006

Predominantly in the USA, the business case for organizational democracy has recently emerged out of new wave management and is characterized by a communitarian challenge to the economic efficiency of hierarchical modes of organizational governance. It presents democratization as a pragmatic remedial device to counter the symptoms of employee alienation and ameliorate the organizational problems associated with destabilized capitalism. This paper outlines the origins and nature of the business case for organizational democracy through a comparison with new wave management; uncovers its underlying rationale in terms of an array of constitutive assumptions that justify and differentiate its prescriptions for the workplace; and considers the implications of using a business case to legitimate the democratization of work organizations. It concludes by outlining the paradoxes inherent in the business case and suggests that, rather than appropriating the business case’s functionalist teleology, it is at the interconnection of politics, ethics and knowledge, together with more consideration of the values and particularism which underpin trust in hierarchy, whence organizational democracy can best gather its rationale and legitimization.
Pseudo-random number generation in children with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s disorder
Authors: Rinehart Nicole J. , Bradshaw John L. , Moss Simon A. , Brereton Avril V. , Tonge Bruce J.
Published: March 2006

The repetitive, stereotyped and obsessive behaviours, which are core diagnostic features of autism, are thought to be underpinned by executive dysfunction. This study examined executive impairment in individuals with autism and Asperger’s disorder using a verbal equivalent of an established pseudo-random number generating task. Different patterns of disinhibition emerged in the autism ( n = 12) and Asperger’s disorder ( n = 12) groups. Consistent with previous research, the autism group repeated single numbers (e.g. 2, 2, 2) more frequently than the control group. In contrast to past research suggesting intact executive abilities, this study found that the Asperger’s disorder group generated more repetitive number patterns (e.g. 45, 45) than the controls. Executive functioning in children with Asperger’s disorder may be particularly vulnerable to a lack of visual cueing and concrete rules. Qualitative differences in executive dysfunction between these groups may implicate differential disruption within the fronto-striatal circuitry.
Presentation of depression in autism and Asperger syndrome
Authors: Stewart Mary E. , Barnard Louise , Pearson Joanne , Hasan Reem , O’Brien Gregory
Published: March 2006

Depression is common in autism and Asperger syndrome, but despite this, there has been little research into this issue. This review considers the current literature on the prevalence, presentation, treatment and assessment of depression in autism and Asperger syndrome. There are diagnostic difficulties when considering depression in autism and Asperger syndrome, as the characteristics of these disorders, such as social withdrawal and appetite and sleep disturbance, are also core symptoms of depression. Impaired verbal and non-verbal communication can mask the symptoms of depression. Symptoms associated with autism and Asperger syndrome such as obsessionality and self-injury may be increased during an episode of depression. There is a clear need to develop specific tools both for diagnostic purposes and for measurement of depression in autism and Asperger syndrome in order to help alleviate the distress caused by this treatable illness.
Identity, childhood culture, and literacy learning: A case study
Authors: Compton-Lilly Catherine
Published: March 2006

Recent conceptions of identity view people’s identities as multiple and situated. The ways we see ourselves are filtered through the relationships we share with others, the knowledges and experiences we bring, and the contexts within which we live and learn. McCarthey and Moje (2002) explain that the identities we construct shape our literacy practices while literacy practices become a means for acting out the identities we assume. This case study demonstrates how children’s identities and cultural resources intersect and converge during literacy learning. Fieldnotes, running records, and audiotaped interviews are used to construct a case study of a reluctant African American student that illustrates the ways students’ identities are constructed and revised in conjunction with literacy learning. This case study demonstrates how teachers can access children’s cultural resources to support literacy learning.
Signs of the times: The governance of alphabetic print over ‘appropriate’ and ‘natural’ reading development
Authors: Hassett Dawnene D.
Published: March 2006

This article investigates the ways in which alphabetic print concepts govern a sense of natural and appropriate early reading development, and juxtaposes the concepts found in early literacy curriculum and assessment with hypertextual elements found in new forms of texts written for children. Using a theoretical approach that combines poststructural theories of power and knowledge with sociocultural theories of literacy, the analysis challenges traditional alphabetic print literacy as a political and historical sign of the times, and reframes educational reasoning about ‘appropriate’ early reading instruction in terms of new technologies, changing texts, and sociocultural forms of literacies.
The migration of art from museum to market: Consuming Caravaggio
Authors: Drummond Kent
Published: March 2006

This study examines the life and work of the Italian Baroque artist Caravaggio, whose paintings dazzled and shocked the Church and patronage systems 400 years ago. By tracing the reception of his work from its inception in 1600 to its commodification today, the study develops a five-phase model of the migration of art from studio to museum to market. Consisting of Creation, Quotation, Interpretation, Recontextualization, and Consumption, the model applies the work of Bourdieu, McCracken, Schroeder, Baudrillard and Althusser to explain how traditional works of western art are transformed into a system of objects available for contemporary consumption. The model explains how the interaction of particular people, events, and contexts disseminates the meaning of rarefied images into objects of possession and adornment.
Modernization and Management
Authors: Kragh Simon Ulrik , Djursaa Malene
Published: March 2006

The choice between mechanistic and organic organizational forms of control should depend not only on the degree of technological and economic complexity, as argued by contingency theory, but equally on whether the cultural conditions necessary to make the organic model work are present. Teaching and learning are complex work processes, and the way control is exercised at business schools is illustrative of principles applicable to other organizations. Data about 26 countries suggest that teaching styles in post-industrial societies are more likely to follow the organic model, involving greater ‘empowerment’ of students and less formal authority. In the business school context, this ‘empowerment’ is shown to rest on students’ cultural values of solidarity and social commitment. The argument is then pursued to the sociocultural and political environment of the business schools. Running the ‘student empowerment index’ generated by own data against international value surveys suggests a close relationship between teaching styles and various indicators of cultural and political modernity.
Convergence of Management Practices in Strategy, Finance and HRM between the USA, Japan and Germany
Authors: Carr Chris , Pudelko Markus
Published: March 2006

The issue of convergence of management practices as between national business systems and cultures is contentious but important given increasing cross-continental cooperation and competition. This article investigates comparative practices in strategy, finance and human resource management in the USA, Japan and Germany. For strategy and finance we used field research in over 70 companies to gain access to top-level decisions; for HRM we surveyed top 500 companies, again in all three countries, yielding responses from 232 HRM managers. Two hypotheses, derived from rich research literatures, are explored. The first hypothesis suggests diffusion of ‘best practices’ for all three management areas - strategy, finance and HRM - to the point of convergence, in spite of national institutional and cultural factors. More specifically, the second hypothesis suggests even greater convergence at the strategic and financial level, given pressures from increasingly common customer and capital markets, as compared with HRM where cultural factors might remain more influential. We found German practices in strategy, finance and HRM lie midway between those in the USA and Japan, and some convergence across all three management areas, particularly between Germany and the USA. Surprisingly, most convergence was found at the HRM level, where imitation of worldwide ‘best practices’ proved more common.
Differences between American, Egyptian and Lebanese Humor Styles
Authors: Kalliny Morris , Cruthirds Kevin W. , Minor Michael S.
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study is to search for differences in humor use between Arabs and Americans and to provide managerial insights regarding such differences. We use Hofstede’s cultural dimensions as a theoretical basis for hypothesizing differences in humor styles between Arabs and Americans. The results indicate that Americans scored significantly higher than Arabs on self-enhancing and self-defeating humor style. There was no significant difference regarding affiliative and aggressive humor. Both Arab and American men scored significantly higher in aggressive humor than did Arab and American women. Managerial implications are provided for both practitioners and researchers.
Nursing Organizations Call for Phase-Out of Agricultural Practices That Promote Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Clouse Rebecca
Published: February 2006

The use of antibiotics in agriculture is considered a contributing factor to the problem of antibiotic resistance. A majority of antibiotics and related drugs produced in the United States are not used to treat the infirm, but rather are used as feed additives for agricultural animals to promote growth and compensate for stressful and crowded growing conditions. Significant efforts must be made to decrease inappropriate overuse in animals and agriculture. Several leading health and political organizations have begun to address the issue. The American Nurses Association has established policies that call on Congress, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and meat producers to promptly phase out the agricultural practices that promote antibiotic resistance.
Women Who Did Not Succeed in the Work-Based Welfare Program
Authors: Hildebrandt Eugenie
Published: February 2006

Welfare reform, enacted more than 5 years ago, created dramatic changes in the lives of single mothers living in poverty. The purpose of this study was to describe the lives of women who were unable to sustain involvement with work-based welfare. A multimethodological design and snowball sampling were used to gather qualitative and quantitative data from 31 urban women. Instruments were a demographic form, an interview guide, and the General Well-Being Schedule from the U.S. Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Interviews were taped, transcribed, and entered into software to facilitate analysis. Thematic coding and narrative analysis were done. The study population had higher levels of severe and moderate distress than the reference standards for the general population. Barriers within the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) system and personal barriers were identified by the women. Policy changes that address these obstacles would serve as blueprints for achieving the Healthy People 2010 goals for the nation.
Nursing Recruitment and Retention in New York State: A Qualitative Workforce Needs Assessment
Authors: Brewer Carol S. , Zayas Luis E. , Kahn Linda S. , Sienkiewicz Mary J.
Published: February 2006

This study’s objective is to determine major barriers to nursing recruitment and retention as a basis for the New York State Area Health Education Center (NYS AHEC) System’s strategic plan for its nursing recruitment and retention initiative, using qualitative assessment with maximum variation purposeful sample. Nine focus groups were conducted in eight rural and urban regions. Three analysts evaluated data following a theory-driven immersion-crystallization approach. Fifty-six practicing nurses, nurse managers, nursing educators, and health care administrators participated. Participants identified workforce recruitment challenges, including labor market dynamics, professional image in the media, and workforce education and training. Workforce retention challenges were also identified, including working conditions, workforce compensation, and barriers to continuing education. Findings confirm documented national and state nursing workforce issues, identify rural-urban distinctions not evidenced in previous research, and provide priorities for the NYS AHEC System pertaining to access to formal and continuing education, faculty shortages, work-place best practices, and recruitment.
Innovation in Nursing Education: A Statewide Grant Initiative
Authors: Green Alexia , Fowler Chris , Sportsman Susan , Cottenoir Marla , Light Kathleen , Schumann Renae
Published: February 2006

Meeting the challenges of the nursing shortage appears to be daunting for schools of nursing across the nation as they struggle to meet educational capacity needs with limited resources. A statewide grant program was developed and implemented through legislative initiatives providing opportunities for schools of nursing to respond to the need for innovation in nursing education. This article shares some of the successes and challenges identified through the process of implementing and evaluating this grant program. Insights into the political and regulatory process are provided as a model for other states to consider. Examples of educational strategies that were successful in improving the recruitment and retention of students and faculty are discussed. Nursing and other health care leaders across the nation should look to policy initiatives such as grant programs to infuse innovation into educational programs and to address educational capacity issues compounding the nursing shortage.
Adolescent Homelessness, Nursing, and Public Health Policy
Authors: O’Sullivan Joanne , Lussier-Duynstee Patricia
Published: February 2006

Homelessness among American adolescents is not a new phenomenon. The United States has a long history of youth who are runaways and/or homeless. The majority of adolescents who are homeless believe that they have no acceptable housing placement options. The foster care system often fails to help youth deal with problems. The impact of homelessness on youth’s social functioning and health status should be raised at the community level, particularly by community nurses and other health professions who interact with adolescents who are homeless. By using Kingdon’s multiple streams model, nurses can advocate for homeless youth by accurately defining and reframing adolescent homelessness for policy makers and including provision of shelter as a policy priority.
Improved lung function and symptom control with formoterol on demand in asthma
Authors: Cheung D. , van Klink H. C. J. , Aalbers R.
Published: February 2006

Many asthma patients remain symptomatic despite maintenance therapy with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and salbutamol as rescue medication. In the present study the relative efficacy and preference for as-needed formoterol compared with salbutamol was examined.

In total, 211 patients with a mean age of 45 yrs (mean forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) 77% predicted normal), using ICS, were randomised to 3 weeks' double-blind treatment with as-needed formoterol 4.5 μg Turbuhaler® and with as-needed salbutamol 100 μg Turbuhaler® in a cross-over fashion.

Overall, lung function and symptom control were better with as-needed formoterol than with as-needed salbutamol. During as-needed formoterol treatment daytime and night-time symptom scores were lower, peak expiratory flow and FEV1were higher and patients experienced fewer disturbed nights (34%) compared with as-needed salbutamol. Patients preferred the formoterol treatment to salbutamol. Of the 162 patients expressing a preference, formoterol was preferred by 68% (95% confidence interval: 60–75). Subjective assessment of effectiveness also favoured formoterol, which was perceived as slightly faster acting than salbutamol.

In conclusion, as-needed formoterol improved symptoms and lung function compared with salbutamol and was perceived as more effective and at least as fast acting for symptom relief.
Hypertension prevalence in obstructive sleep apnoea and sex: a population-based case–control study
Authors: Hedner J. , Bengtsson-Boström K. , Peker Y. , Grote L. , Råstam L. , Lindblad U.
Published: February 2006

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a recognised risk factor for hypertension (HT). The current authors investigated confounders of this association in a sex-balanced community-based sample of patients with HT (n = 161) from the Skaraborg Hypertension and Diabetes Project (n = 1,149) and normotensive controls (n = 183) from an age and sex stratified community-based population sample (n = 1,109). All participants underwent ambulatory home polysomnography.

Severe OSA (apnoea-plus-hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥30 events·h−1) was found in 47 and 25% of hypertensive and normotensive males, respectively. The corresponding numbers in females were 26 and 24%, respectively. The odds ratio (OR) for HT increased across AHI tertiles from 1.0 to 2.1 (95% confidence interval: 0.9–4.5) and 1.0 to 3.7 (95% CI: 1.7–8.2) in males, but not in females where the OR increased from 1.0 to 1.8 (95% CI: 0.8–3.9) and 1.0 to 1.6 (95% CI: 0.7–3.5). Regression analysis correcting for age, body mass index (or waist–hip ratio) and smoking did not eliminate the association between OSA and HT in males.

The present data suggest that obstructive sleep apnoea is highly prevalent in both the general population and in patients with known hypertension. The contribution of obstructive sleep apnoea to hypertension risk may be sex dependent and higher in males than in females.
Hypoxia causes permeability oedema in the constant-pressure perfused rat lung
Authors: Dehler M. , Zessin E. , Bärtsch P. , Mairbäurl H.
Published: February 2006

Alveolar hypoxia causes pulmonary oedema associated with increased lung capillary pressure and decreased alveolar fluid reabsorption. However, the role of altered permeability is unclear. The aim of the present study was to test whether hypoxia affects alveolar permeability and induces pulmonary oedema in rat lungs, and whether terbutaline affects oedema formation.

Isolated lungs of normoxic rats were perfused at a constant pressure (12 cmH2O) and exposed to different levels of oxygenation (1.5–35% O2). Terbutaline (10−5 M) was applied as an aerosol or with the perfusate. Online measurements indicate an earlier onset of weight gain with an increasing degree of hypoxia and a shortened lung survival time (35% O2: ∼220 min; 1.5% O2: ∼120 min). Terbutaline did not prevent oedema formation in hypoxic lungs. The terbutaline-induced formation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate was decreased by 50% in hypoxia (1.5% O2).

In experiments terminated after 75 min, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of hypoxic lungs contained protein that originated from perfusate indicating alveolar leakage. Since lactate dehydrogenase in perfusate was not increased at the onset of oedema formation, cell damage does not explain the increased permeability.

In conclusion, these results indicate the formation of a leak for macromolecules of the isolated perfused rat lung, which is accelerated by hypoxia and causes alveolar flooding even at low perfusion pressure at a rate that exceeds absorption even after stimulation with terbutaline.
The link between fungi and severe asthma: a summary of the evidence
Authors: Denning D. W. , O'Driscoll B. R. , Hogaboam C. M. , Bowyer P. , Niven R. M.
Published: February 2006

There is current evidence to demonstrate a close association between fungal sensitisation and asthma severity. Whether such an association is causal remains to be confirmed, but this is explored by means of a detailed literature review. There is evidence from two randomised controlled trials that, in the example of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), treatment with systemic antifungal therapy can offer a therapeutic benefit to ∼60% of patients. ABPA is only diagnosed if a combination of clinical and immunological criteria is achieved. It is not known whether such cases are a discrete clinical entity or part of a spectrum of the pulmonary allergic response to fungi or fungal products.

This paper describes the epidemiological evidence that associates severity of asthma with fungi and discusses possible pathogenetic mechanisms. Many airborne fungi are involved, including species ofAlternaria,Aspergillus,CladosporiumandPenicillium, and exposure may be indoors, outdoors or both. The potential for a therapeutic role of antifungal agents for patients with severe asthma and fungal sensitisation is also explored.

Not only are many patients with severe asthma desperately disabled by their disease, but, in the UK alone, asthma accounts for 1,500 deaths per yr. The healthcare costs of these patients are enormous and any treatment option merits close scrutiny. Within this report, the case for the consideration of a new term related to this association is put forward. The current authors propose the term “severe asthma with fungal sensitisation”. However, it is recognised that enhanced and precise definition of fungal sensitisation will require improvements in diagnostic testing.
Influence of body mass index on the response to asthma controller agents
Authors: Peters-Golden M. , Swern A. , Bird S. S. , Hustad C. M. , Grant E. , Edelman J. M.
Published: February 2006

The incidence of asthma has been positively associated with obesity. Asthma comprises diverse “phenotypes” reflecting heterogeneity in a number of characteristics, including response to therapy. The present authors examined whether body mass index (BMI) influenced the response to placebo, as well as to two asthma controller medications.

Apost hocanalysis was performed, pooling data from four double-blind, placebo-controlled studies randomising 3,073 moderate asthmatic adults to montelukast (n = 1,439), beclomethasone (n = 894) or placebo (n = 740). The primary end point was asthma control days; other end points were forced expiratory volume in one second, β-agonist use and nocturnal awakening. Analyses were conducted using BMI classification into normal (<25.0 kg·m−2; 52% of patients), overweight (25–29.9 kg·m−2; 32%) and obese (≥30.0 kg·m−2; 16%) categories, as well as BMI as a continuous variable.

The treatment groups were balanced for BMI, demographic characteristics and parameters of asthma control. The placebo response for all end points was generally lower with increasing BMI. Similarly, the response to the inhaled corticosteroid decreased, whereas the response to the leukotriene antagonist remained stable.

In conclusion,post hocdata from the present study suggested that body mass index may influence the natural history of asthma control (as reflected by response to placebo) and may differentially influence response to the two active agents, warranting explicit testing in future prospective studies.
Aspirationversustube drainage in primary spontaneous pneumothorax: a randomised study
Authors: Ayed A. K. , Chandrasekaran C. , Sukumar M.
Published: February 2006

This randomised study was designed to compare clinical outcomes for simple aspirationversustube thoracostomy, in the treatment of the first primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) attack. A randomised trial, comparing simple aspiration with tube thoracostomy, in 137 patients with a first episode of PSP was carried out.

Immediate success was obtained in 40 out of the 65 patients (62%) randomly assigned to undergo simple aspiration and in 49 out of the 72 patients (68%) who had been randomly assigned to undergo tube thoracostomy. The 1-week success rates were: 58 (89%) patients in the intention-to-treat simple aspiration group and 63 (88%) patients in the tube thoracostomy group. In the aspiration group, there were more recurrences during the 3-month follow-up period (15versus8%), though the difference was not significant. Recurrence rates at 1 and 2 yrs were 16 (22%) and 20 (31%) for patients who had undergone simple aspiration, respectively, and 17 (24%) and 18 (25%) for patients who had undergone tube thoracostomies, respectively. Complications occurred in 5 (7%) patients who had undergone a tube thoracostomy and 1 (2%) patient who had undergone simple aspiration. Analgesia was required in 22 (34%) patients of the simple aspiration groupversus40 (56%) patients of the tube thoracostomy group.

These findings suggest that simple aspiration could be an acceptable alternative to tube thoracostomy in the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax.
Concentrations of Ni and V, other heavy metals, arsenic, elemental and organic carbon in atmospheric fine particles (PM2.5) from Puerto Rico
Authors: Figueroa David Acevedo , Rodríguez-Sierra Carlos J , Jiménez-Velez Braulio D
Published: March 2006

Fine atmospheric particulate PM2.5 (particles with diameters of B / 2.5 mm) were sampled in an urban industrialized area- Guaynabo, Puerto Rico (Figure 1)- and in a reference less polluted site-Fajardo, Puerto Rico- and analyzed for trace metals, and inorganic and organic elemental carbon. PM2.5 samples were collected from November 2000 to September 2001 using an Andersen Instruments RAAS2.5-400 for periods of 72 h. Metals analyzed were arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), vanadium (V) and zinc (Zn) by atomic absorption. Levels of elemental and organic carbon (EC/OC) were also determined. All metals analyzed, except for Fe, were significantly higher in PM2.5 from Guaynabo when compared to Fajardo. Average levels of PM2.5 in Guaynabo were 11.6 versus 8.5 mg/m3 in Fajardo. Average levels of EC were 1.5 and 0.14 mg/m3; and OC levels were 2.2 and B/1 mg/m3 for Guaynabo and Fajardo, respectively. Levels of Ni (17 ng/m3) and V (40 ng/m3) determined in PM2.5 from the Guaynabo area were high when compared to other cities, and these metals could be responsible for respiratory problems reported in the area. Multivariate analyses showed strong relationships in Guaynabo between Ni and V, PM2.5 and Fe and As and Cu and Pb. In Fajardo, the strongest associations were obtained between PM2.5 and Fe, Cd and V and Ni and Pb and Cu, these last three elements exhibiting an inverse relationship.
Acute amitriptyline intoxication: an analysis of 44 children
Authors: Çaksen Hüseyin , Akbayram Sinan , Odabaş Dursun , Özbek Hanefi , Erol Mehmet , Akgün Cihangir , Tuncer Oguz , Yilmaz Cahide
Published: March 2006

The tricyclic antidepressant agents, particularly amitriptyline and dothiepin, are recognized for their potentially lethal cardiovascular and neurological effects in poisoned patients. In this article, the clinical and laboratory findings of 44 children with amitriptyline intoxication are reviewed. Our purpose was to investigate amitriptyline intoxication in childhood. Of 44 patients, 21 (47.7%) were boys, 23 (52.3%) were girls, and the ages ranged from 12 months to 14 years (mean9 / SD; 4.099 / 2.9 years). All children except one who took an overdose of amitriptyline to decrease his pain accidentally ingested an overdose of amitriptyline. The amount of amitriptyline ingested was between 2 mg/kg and 97.5 mg/kg (mean9 / SD; 13.69 / 17.7 mg/kg per dose) (the drug dosage was not known in 13 children). The most commonly observed clinical and laboratory findings were lethargy, tachycardia, convulsion, hyperglycemia and leukocytosis. In all patients except for two children who died the abnormal clinical and laboratory findings returned to normal within a few days after admission and they were discharged from the hospital in good health within the fourth day of admission. One of the children ingested 97.5 mg/kg amitriptyline and probably died due to status epilepticus and another child who died ingested 36 mg/ kg amitriptyline and died due to cardiopulmonary arrest. In conclusion, our findings showed that initial symptoms and signs of acute amitriptyline intoxication appeared severe, but they disappeared with only supportive care required in most children except for cases that ingested high doses of drug within a few days. In contrast to adults, we infrequently noted respiratory insufficiency, arrhythmia and hypotension in children with acute amitriptyline intoxication.
Non-linearities and data analysis: towards a quantitative investigation of delayed luminescence
Authors: Ciardi A , Milani M
Published: March 2006

Innovative techniques for the acquisition and analysis of delayed luminescence (DL) signals are proposed and discussed. At a preliminary level, the signals prove to be a useful tool, not only for quantitative analysis, but also for discrimination / among different, possibly competing, mechanisms responsible for DL in photosynthetic organisms. Moreover, DL recordings from non-photosynthetic organisms (S. cerevisiae yeast) with avalanche photodiode (APD) detection will be discussed.