bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mind bomb 1 regulation of cFLIP interactions
Authors: Zhang Liguo , Gallagher Patricia J.
Published: August 2009

Mind bomb 1 (Mib1) is a multidomain E3 ligase that directs ubiquitination of the Notch ligands Delta and Jagged to promote their endocytosis. Here we examine Notch-independent functions of Mib1 and find that its activities are linked to the initiation of the extrinsic cell death pathway. Expression of Mib1 induces a spontaneous, caspase-dependent cell death. Consistent with this, depletion of endogenous Mib1 decreases tumor-necrosis factor (TNF)-induced cell death. Mib1 was found to bind to cellular Fas-associated death domain (FADD)-like IL-1b converting enzyme (FLICE)-like inhibitory proteins (cFLIP-L and cFLIP-S), whereas only cFLIP-s can inhibit Mib1-induced cell death. The interaction between Mib1 and cFLIP decreases the association of caspase-8 with cFLIP, which activates caspase-8 and induces cell death. Collectively, these results suggest that in addition to a central role in Notch signaling, Mib1 has an important role in regulating the extrinsic cell death pathway.
The C type natriuretic peptide receptor tethers AHNAK1 at the plasma membrane to potentiate arachidonic acid-induced calcium mobilization
Authors: Alli Abdel A. , Gower William R.
Published: August 2009

Arachidonic acid (AA) liberated from membrane phospholipids is known to activate phospholipase C γ1 (PLCγ1) concurrently with AHNAK in nonneuronal cells. The recruitment of AHNAK from the nucleus is required for it to activate PLCγ1 at the plasma membrane. Here, we identify the C-type natriuretic peptide receptor (NPR-C), an atypical G protein-coupled receptor, as a protein binding partner for AHNAK1 in various cell types. Mass spectrometry and MASCOT analysis of excised bands from NPR-C immunoprecipitation studies revealed multiple signature peptides corresponding to AHNAK1. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) pulldown assays using GST- AHNAK1 fusion proteins corresponding to each of the distinct domains of AHNAK1 showed the C1 domain of AHNAK1 associates with NPR-C. The role of NPR-C in mediating AA-dependent AHNAK1 calcium signaling was explored in various cell types, including 3T3-L1 preadipocytes during the early stages of differentiation. Sucrose density gradient centrifugation studies showed AHNAK1 resides in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and at the plasma membrane, but small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of NPR-C resulted in AHNAK1 accumulation in the nucleus. Overexpression of a portion of AHNAK1 resulted in augmentation of intracellular calcium mobilization, whereas siRNA-mediated knockdown of NPR-C or AHNAK1 protein resulted in attenuation of intracellular calcium mobilization in response to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. We characterize the novel association between AHNAK1 and NPR-C and provide evidence that this association potentiates the AA-induced mobilization of intracellular calcium. We address the role of intracellular calcium in the various cell types that AHNAK1 and NPR-C were found to associate.
Opioid microinjection into raphe magnus modulates cardiorespiratory function in mice and rats
Authors: Hellman Kevin M. , Mendelson Scott J. , Mendez-Duarte Marco A. , Russell James L. , Mason Peggy
Published: August 2009

The raphe magnus (RM) participates in opioid analgesia and contains pain-modulatory neurons with respiration-related discharge. Here, we asked whether RM contributes to respiratory depression, the most prevalent lethal effect of opioids. To investigate whether opioidergic transmission in RM produces respiratory depression, we microinjected a mu-opioid receptor agonist, DAMGO, or morphine into the RM of awake rodents. In mice, opioid microinjection produced sustained decreases in respiratory rate (170 to 120 breaths/min), as well as heart rate (520 to 400 beats/min). Respiratory sinus arrhythmia, indicative of enhanced parasympathetic activity, was prevalent in mice receiving DAMGO microinjection. We performed similar experiments in rats but observed no changes in breathing rate or heart rate. Both rats and mice experienced significantly more episodes of bradypnea, indicative of impaired respiratory drive, after opioid microinjection. During spontaneous arousals, rats showed less tachycardia after opioid microinjection than before microinjection, suggestive of an attenuated sympathetic tone. Thus, activation of opioidergic signaling within RM produces effects beyond analgesia, including the unwanted destabilization of cardiorespiratory function. These adverse effects on homeostasis consequent to opioid microinjection imply a role for RM in regulating the balance of sympathetic and parasympathetic tone.
Enhanced angiotensin-mediated excitation of renal sympathetic nerve activity within the paraventricular nucleus of anesthetized rats with heart failure
Authors: Zheng Hong , Li Yi-Fan , Wang Wei , Patel Kaushik P.
Published: August 2009

Chronic heart failure (HF) is characterized by increased sympathetic drive. Enhanced angiotensin II (ANG II) activity may contribute to the increased sympathoexcitation under HF condition. The present study examined sympathoexcitation by 1) the effects of ANG II in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) on renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA), and 2) the altered ANG II type 1 (AT1) receptor expression during HF. Left coronary artery ligation was used to induce HF. In the anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats, microinjection of ANG II (0.05–1 nmol) into the PVN increased RSNA, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and heart rate (HR) in both sham-operated and HF rats. The responses of RSNA and HR were significantly enhanced in rats with HF compared with sham rats (RSNA: 64 ± 8% vs. 33 ± 4%, P < 0.05). Microinjection of AT1 receptor antagonist losartan into the PVN produced a decrease of RSNA, MAP, and HR in both sham and HF rats. The RSNA and HR responses to losartan in HF rats were significantly greater (RSNA: −25 ± 4% vs. −13 ± 1%, P < 0.05). Using RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, we found that there were significant increases in the AT1 receptor mRNA (Δ186 ± 39%) and protein levels (Δ88 ± 20%) in the PVN of rats with HF ( P < 0.05). The immunofluorescence of AT1 receptors was significantly higher in the PVN of rats with HF. These data support the conclusion that an increased angiotensinergic activity on sympathetic regulation, due to the upregulation of ANG II AT1 receptors within the PVN, may contribute to the elevated sympathoexcitation that is observed during HF.
pH regulating transporters in neurons from various chemosensitive brainstem regions in neonatal rats
Authors: Kersh Anna E. , Hartzler Lynn K. , Havlin Kevin , Hubbell Brittany Belcastro , Nanagas Vivian , Kalra Avash , Chua Jason , Whitesell Ryan , Ritucci Nick A. , Dean Jay B. , Putnam Robert W.
Published: August 2009

We studied the membrane transporters that mediate intracellular pH (pHi) recovery from acidification in brainstem neurons from chemosensitive regions of neonatal rats. Individual neurons within brainstem slices from the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS), and the locus coeruleus (LC) were studied using a pH-sensitive fluorescent dye and fluorescence imaging microscopy. The rate of pHirecovery from an NH4Cl-induced acidification was measured, and the effects of inhibitors of various pH-regulating transporters determined. Hypercapnia (15% CO2) resulted in a maintained acidification in neurons from all three regions. Recovery in RTN neurons was nearly entirely eliminated by amiloride, an inhibitor of Na+/H+exchange (NHE). Recovery in RTN neurons was blocked ∼50% by inhibitors of isoform 1 of NHE (NHE-1) but very little by an inhibitor of NHE-3 or by DIDS (an inhibitor of HCO3-dependent transport). In NTS neurons, amiloride blocked over 80% of the recovery, which was also blocked ∼65% by inhibitors of NHE-1 and 26% blocked by an inhibitor of NHE-3. Recovery in LC neurons, in contrast, was unaffected by amiloride or blockers of NHE isoforms but was dependent on Na+and increased by external HCO3−. On the basis of these findings, pHirecovery from acidification appears to be largely mediated by NHE-1 in RTN neurons, by NHE-1 and NHE-3 in NTS neurons, and by a Na- and HCO3-dependent transporter in LC neurons. Thus, pHirecovery is mediated by different pH-regulating transporters in neurons from different chemosensitive regions, but recovery is suppressed by hypercapnia in all of the neurons.
Extracellular ATP inhibits transport in medullary thick ascending limbs: role of P2X receptors
Authors: Silva Guillermo B. , Garvin Jeffrey L.
Published: August 2009

Absorption of NaCl by the thick ascending limb (TAL) involves active transport and therefore depends on oxidative phosphorylation. Extracellular ATP has pleiotropic effects, including both stimulation and inhibition of transport and inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation. However, it is unclear whether ATP alters TAL transport and how this occurs. We hypothesized that ATP inhibits TAL Na absorption by reducing Na entry. We measured oxygen consumption in TAL suspensions. ATP reduced oxygen consumption in a concentration-dependent manner. The purinergic (P2) receptor antagonist suramin (300 μM) blocked the effect of ATP on TAL oxygen consumption (147 ± 15 vs. 146 ± 16 nmol O2·min−1·mg protein−1). In contrast, the adenosine receptor antagonist theophylline did not block the effect of ATP on oxygen consumption. When Na-K-2Cl cotransport and Na/H exchange were blocked with furosemide (100 μM) plus dimethyl amiloride (100 μM), ATP did not inhibit TAL oxygen consumption (from 78 ± 13 to 98 ± 5 nmol O2·min−1·mg protein−1). The Na ionophore nystatin (200 U/ml) increased TAL oxygen consumption to a similar extent in both ATP- and vehicle-treated samples (368 ± 41 vs. 397 ± 47 nmol O2·min−1·mg protein−1). The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (3 mM) blocked the ATP effects on TAL oxygen consumption (157 ± 10 vs. 165 ± 15 nmol O2·min−1·mg protein−1). The P2X-selective receptor antagonist NF023 blocked the effect of ATP on oxygen consumption, whereas the P2X-selective agonist β-γ-Me-ATP reduced oxygen consumption in a concentration-dependent manner. We conclude that ATP inhibits Na transport-related oxygen consumption in TALs by reducing Na entry and P2X receptors and nitric oxide mediate this effect.
Developmental renin expression in mice with a defective renin-angiotensin system
Authors: Machura Katharina , Steppan Dominik , Neubauer Bjoern , Alenina Natalia , Coffman Thomas M. , Facemire Carie S. , Hilgers Karl F. , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Wagner Charlotte , Kurtz Armin
Published: August 2009

During nephrogenesis, renin expression shifts from the vessel walls of interlobular arteries to the terminal portions of afferent arterioles in a wavelike pattern. Since the mechanisms responsible for the developmental deactivation of renin expression are as yet unknown, we hypothesized that the developing renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may downregulate itself via negative feedback to prevent overactivity of renin. To test for a possible role of angiotensin II in the developmental deactivation of renin expression, we studied the development of intrarenal renin expression in mice lacking ANG II AT1a, AT1b, or AT2receptors and in animals with abolished circulating ANG II due to deletion of the gene for angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE). The development of intrarenal renin expression was normal in mice lacking ANG II AT1bor AT2receptors. In animals lacking both ANG II AT1aand AT1breceptors, ACE, or ANG II AT1areceptors, renin expression was normal early and renin disappeared from mature vessels until development of cortical interlobular and afferent arterioles began. The development of cortical vessels in these genotypes was accompanied by a markedly increased number of renin-expressing cells, many of which were ectopically located and attached in a grapelike fashion to the outer vessel perimeter. Although the number of renin-expressing cells declined during final maturation of the kidneys, the atypical distribution pattern of renin cells was maintained. These findings suggest that ANG II does not play a central role in the typical developmental shift in renin expression from the arcuate vessels to the afferent arterioles. During postnatal maturation of mouse kidneys, interruption of the RAS causes severe hyperplasia of renin cells via a mechanism that centrally involves AT1areceptors. However, the distribution pattern of renin cells in adult kidneys with an interrupted RAS does not mimic any normal developmental stage since renin expression is frequently found in cells outside the arteriolar vessel walls in RAS mutants.
Simulation of Snow on Arctic Sea Ice Using a Coupled Snow–Ice Model
Authors: Chung Yi-Ching , Bélair Stéphane , Mailhot Jocelyn
Published: August 2009

The new Recherche Prévision Numérique (NEW-RPN) model, a coupled system including a multilayer snow thermal model (SNTHERM) and the sea ice model currently used in the Meteorological Service of Canada (MSC) operational forecasting system, was evaluated in a one-dimensional mode using meteorological observations from the Surface Heat Budget of the Arctic Ocean (SHEBA)’s Pittsburgh site in the Arctic Ocean collected during 1997/98. Two parameters simulated by NEW-RPN (i.e., snow depth and ice thickness) are compared with SHEBA’s observations and with simulations from RPN, MSC’s current coupled system (the same sea ice model and a single-layer snow model). Results show that NEW-RPN exhibits better agreement for the timing of snow depletion and for ice thickness. The profiles of snow thermal conductivity in NEW-RPN show considerable variability across the snow layers, but the mean value (0.39 W m−1 K−1) is within the range of reported observations for SHEBA. This value is larger than 0.31 W m−1 K−1, which is commonly used in single-layer snow models. Of particular interest in NEW-RPN’s simulation is the strong temperature stratification of the snowpack, which indicates that a multilayer snow model is needed in the SHEBA scenario. A sensitivity analysis indicates that snow compaction is also a crucial process for a realistic representation of the snowpack within the snow/sea ice system. NEW-RPN’s overestimation of snow depth may be related to other processes not included in the study, such as small-scale horizontal variability of snow depth and blowing snow processes.
Evolution of Persistent Wave Groups
Authors: Smith Jerome A. , Brulefert Coralie
Published: August 2009

During the near-field leg of the Hawaiian Ocean-Mixing Experiment (HOME-NF), short, steep surface wave groups were observed that elicited strong group-forced responses in the wave-filtered surface current field, as reported by Smith. Some of these wave groups persisted for 17 wave periods, yet were only about 1 wavelength long in the along-wind direction. Here, the authors consider the evolution of wave groups of the form observed and find that this persistence is consistent with linear dispersion in spite of the very compact form. The key aspects enhancing persistence are 1) that the wave crests within the group are oriented at an angle with respect to the group envelope and 2) they are much wider in the crosswind direction than along-wind (in the example examined in detail, about 5 times). According to a simplified model, groups with the observed 5-to-1 aspect ratio and this “slant-wave” structure can persist for up to 20 wave periods, consistent with the observations (cf. 8 periods for a collinear wave group). The maximum persistence increases in proportion to the across-wind length of the group.
“Free to Come to Grief”: The Problems of Formal Freedom in Mark McWatt’s Suspended Sentences
Authors: Evans Lucy
Published: August 2009

This article situates Mark McWatt’s Suspended Sentences in the context of a Guyanese cultural tradition. I consider the idea of a community of literary voices, both as it is figured within this formally complex text and as it is envisaged through McWatt’s intertextual dialogue with an earlier generation of writers and through his anticipation of future readers. Moving between a discussion of political freedom and imprisonment in the context of Martin Carter’s writing and an analysis of the textual power relations operating within Suspended Sentences, I focus on the concept of freedom of expression as it relates to the idea of a communally-articulated Guyana. By setting Linda Hutcheon’s ideas on the relationship between freedom and postmodernist writing against the very different views of Wilson Harris, I explore the limits of McWatt’s metafictional devices, reading them in relation to the text’s thematic concern with empty promises. I suggest that, in the context of the disillusioning social and political realities of post-independence Guyana, McWatt’s backward glance at visions of the future combines a longing to share in the optimism of his literary predecessors with a critical distance from them. In this light, I argue that Suspended Sentences at once projects a promise of community and suspends it indefinitely.
Removal of Dyes from Industrial Wastewater by Cucurbiturils
Authors: Nagy Henrietta J. , Sallay Péter , Varga Mihály L. , Rusznák István , Bakó Péter , Víg András
Published: August 2009

Homolog mixture of basic molecules of cucurbiturils has been synthesized and cucurbit[6]uril (CU[6]) and cucurbit[8]uril (CU[8]) have been isolated by means of solvent extraction. Inclusion complexes of different acid, reactive and disperse dyes have been produced by them. CU[8] was decidedly more efficient in complex formation with all the studied dyes than CU[6]. Competitive complex formation between randomly methylated ß-cyclodextrin and the respective cucurbiturils with disperse dyes has been studied and superiority of CU[8] could be demonstrated. The complex forming efficiency of the cucurbiturils with acid and reactive dyes was markedly increased in the presence of Ca, Mg, K and Na ions, respectively, in water solution.
A Hybrid Neural Network and Immune Algorithm Approach for Fit Garment Design
Authors: Hu Zhi-Hua , Ding Yong-Sheng , Yu Xiao-Kun , Zhang Wen-Bin , Qiao Yan
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to develop a system to utilize the successful experiences and help the beginners of garment pattern design (GPD) through optimization methods. Size design of fit garments is a basic and difficult problem in GPD for inexperienced designers. We have proposed a hybrid system (NN-ICEA) based on neural network (NN) and immune co-evolutionary algorithm (ICEA) to predict the fit of the garments and search optimal sizes. ICEA takes NN as fitness function and procedures including clonal proliferation, hypermutation and co-evolution search the optimal size values. A series of experiments with a dataset of 450 pieces of pants was conducted to demonstrate the prediction and optimization capabilities of NN-ICEA. In the comparative studies, NN-ICEA was compared with NN-genetic algorithm to show the value of immune-inspired operators. Four types of GPD method have been summarized and compared. Moreover, the hybrid system for general features of garment has been discussed. The research is a feasible and effective attempt aiming at a valuable problem and provides key algorithms for fit prediction and size optimization. The algorithms can be incorporated into garment computer-aided design system.
Geometrical Models for Cardigan Structures Part I: Full Cardigan
Authors: Kurbak Arif , Alpyildiz Tuba
Published: August 2009

In this study a geometrical model for the full cardigan structure is given based on Kurbak’s plain-knitted loop model. In the model, loop and tuck heads were taken as ellipses in two dimensions, where the loop heads lean towards the thickness direction at an angle α1 and the tuck heads are in a vertical direction. The rest of the loops and tucks were taken as parabolic helices wrapped on circular cylinders. The parameters of the model were obtained by using a wash-relaxed wool fabric at medium tightness. Computer drawings of the model were created by using 3DSMax, which gave similar loop shapes to those observed in real fabrics. This full cardigan model will be used to obtain a model for a the half-cardigan structure in the following study as Part II.
Objective Measure of Woven Fabric’s Cover Factor by Image Processing
Authors: Tàpias Montserrat , Ralló Miquel , Escofet Jaume , Algaba Inés , Riva Ascensión
Published: August 2009

Digital image processing techniques have been applied to perform an automatic method for the objective measure of woven fabric’s cover factor. Based on a frequency domain analysis, digital images of woven fabric samples, obtained with a camera assembled to a microscope, were cropped to enclose the maximum integer number of warp and weft periods and leveled for non-uniform illumination. Posterior thresholding, designed to perform satisfactorily for both high and low cover factor fabric samples, gave rise to the objective value. The method was applied to three different sets of samples manufactured in plain weave, with known yarn numbers and thread counts. Cover factors obtained by this method showed good correlation with those obtained by a set of visual observers and were consistent with woven fabric parameters: yarn numbers (tex) and thread counts (yarns/cm). The procedure could be useful to monitor mean cover factor as well as cover factor variability in fabric batches. It does not require sophisticated equipment and could be straightforwardly implemented in a textile analysis laboratory.
Reconstructing Dewey on Power
Authors: Hildreth R.W.
Published: August 2009

One of the most enduring criticisms of John Dewey’s political thought is that it is unsuspicious of power. This essay responds to this critique by advancing the claim that power is an integral but implicit element of Dewey’s conception of human experience. Given Dewey’s indirect treatment of power, this essay has two primary tasks. First, it reconstructs and develops an explicit conception of power for Deweyan pragmatism. Second, it evaluates the extent that Dewey’s political and social philosophy is able to criticize power relations. Taken together, I aim to provide a more coherent and realistic defense of the political dimensions of Dewey’s democratic theory. This defense moves Deweyan pragmatism toward a democratic politics that neither elides conflict nor evades power.
The Development of Competent Marketing Professionals
Authors: Walker Ian , Tsarenko Yelena , Wagstaff Peter , Powell Irene , Steel Marion , Brace-Govan Jan
Published: August 2009

The process of transition from university undergraduate to business professional is a crucial stage in the development of a business career. This study examines both graduate and employer perspectives on the essential skills and knowledge needed by marketing professionals to successfully perform their roles. From in-depth interviews with 14 graduates and 14 employers, it is apparent that the transition trajectory is both diverse and dynamic. The first main finding is that the transition from marketing graduate to employee is marked by a lack of skills to organically “fit the organization.” Another finding is related to specific competencies such as the ability to have and, most importantly, apply marketing knowledge. These findings have strong implications for the development and redesign of curricula to produce highly skilled, employable graduates and to assist universities in retaining a competitive advantage within the tertiary sector.
Supporting large-area, sample-based forest inventories with very high spatial resolution satellite imagery
Authors: Falkowski Michael J. , Wulder Michael A. , White Joanne C. , Gillis Mark D.
Published: August 2009

Information needs associated with forest management and reporting requires data with a steadily increasing level of detail and temporal frequency. Remote sensing satellites commonly used for forest monitoring (eg, Landsat, SPOT) typically collect imagery with sufficient temporal frequency, but lack the requisite spatial and categorical detail for some forest inventory information needs. Aerial photography remains a principal data source for forest inventory; however, information extraction is primarily accomplished through manual processes. The spatial, categorical, and temporal information requirements of large-area forest inventories can be met through sample-based data collection. Opportunities exist for very high spatial resolution (VHSR; ie, <1 m) remotely sensed imagery to augment traditional data sources for large-area, sample-based forest inventories, especially for inventory update. In this paper, we synthesize the state-of-the-art in the use of VHSR remotely sensed imagery for forest inventory and monitoring. Based upon this review, we develop a framework for updating a sample-based, large-area forest inventory that incorporates VHSR imagery. Using the information needs of the Canadian National Forest Inventory (NFI) for context, we demonstrate the potential capabilities of VHSR imagery in four phases of the forest inventory update process: stand delineation, automated attribution, manual interpretation, and indirect attribute modelling. Although designed to support the information needs of the Canadian NFI, the framework presented herein could be adapted to support other sample-based, large-area forest monitoring initiatives.
Modelling impacts of climate change on snowmelt runoff generation and streamflow across western US mountain basins: a review of techniques and applications for water resource management
Authors: Day C. Andrew
Published: August 2009

The western US region is heavily reliant on spring snowmelt for much of its annual water supply. However, rising temperatures across the region over the latter half of the twentieth century have reduced snowpack accumulation, snowmelt timing and magnitude, especially at lower elevations. Water resource planners must be prepared to understand and counter the possible consequences resulting from a continuation in rising air temperatures on snowmelt and streamflow into the twenty-first century. This review aims to thoroughly analyse what tools and techniques are available to monitor and plan for such changes. A historical analysis of snowmelt trends in response to increasing air temperatures is followed by a review of methods used to forecast the effects of future changes in air temperature on snowmelt processes along with both general approaches to snowmelt modelling and different snowmelt models themselves. The techniques and methods to be ultimately employed will depend greatly upon data availability and on the scale at which they are to be applied.
Patellar Tendon Versus Hamstring Tendon Autografts for Reconstructing the Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Biau David Jean , Katsahian Sandrine , Kartus Jüri , Harilainen Arsi , Feller Julian A. , Sajovic Matjaz , Ejerhed Lars , Zaffagnini Stefano , Röpke Martin , Nizard Rémy
Published: August 2009

Background

The best means of ensuring knee stability after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains a core debate in sports medicine.

Hypothesis

There is no difference between ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon or hamstring tendon autografts with regard to postoperative knee laxity and instability.

Study Design

Meta-analysis of individual patient data.

Methods

Pooled analysis of individual patient data from 6 published randomized clinical trials included 423 patients with symptomatic unilateral anterior cruciate ligament injury randomly assigned to reconstruction with patellar tendon or hamstring tendon autograft. Knee instability, defined as a positive pivot-shift test result, was the primary outcome, and knee laxity, defined as a positive Lachman test result, was the secondary outcome. Odds ratios were computed before and after adjustment for potential confounders and trial effect. Regression analyses were performed to look for effects of covariates on outcomes, and mixed-effects models were used to account for a trial effect. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the effects of missing data and excluding each trial.

Results

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with patellar tendon autograft was significantly associated with a decreased risk of a positive pivot-shift test result (adjusted odds ratio, 0.46; 95% confidence interval, 0.24–0.86; P = .016). The risk of having a positive Lachman test result was not significantly different between the 2 groups. The estimated treatment effect was not substantially changed by differences in handling missing data or exclusion of any of the trials. A positive pivot-shift test result was more common in female ( P = .003) and younger patients ( P = .017).

Conclusion

Postoperative knee instability was less common after ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon autograft than with hamstring tendon autograft.
Investigation on the components removed in loss on ignition test of sandy crushed construction and demolition waste
Authors: Asakura Hiroshi , Yamada Masato , Inoue Yuzo , Watanabe Yoichi , Ono Yusaku
Published: August 2009

Processed sandy residue generated from mixed construction and demolition waste (mixed C&D-W) was investigated for possible deposition in landfill. The basic properties and the components removed in the loss on ignition (LOI) test were examined. The target material for decreasing LOI was elucidated and the validity of LOI used as landfill standard for inert industrial solid waste was discussed. LOI of most of the samples was above 5% and therefore, in principle, processed sandy residue should not be deposited in inert-type landfill. As LOI of sandy residue was mainly due to bound water, the LOI could not be decreased to below 5% even if wood, which is the major organic matter in the sandy residue, was removed. However, decreasing the amount of wood could lead to a subsequent decrease in the amount of dissolved organic matter. Therefore, the LOI of processed mixed C&D-W used as landfill standard for inert industrial solid waste should be re-evaluated.
Environmental assessment of low-organic waste landfill scenarios by means of life-cycle assessment modelling (EASEWASTE)
Authors: Manfredi Simone , Christensen Thomas H. , Scharff Heijo , Jacobs Joeri
Published: August 2009

The environmental performance of two low-organic waste landfill scenarios (‘low-organic-energy’ and ‘low-organic-flare’) was developed and compared with two household waste landfill scenarios (‘household-energy’ and ‘household-flare’) by means of LCA-modelling. The LCA-modelling was made for 1 tonne of wet waste landfilled and the environmental aspects were evaluated for a 100-year period after disposal. The data utilized in the LCA-calculations to model the first 10—20 years of landfilling of the two low-organic waste scenarios make extensive use of site-specific data from the Nauerna Landfill (The Netherlands), but average data from other comparable, existing landfills were used too. As data from full-scale landfills do not cover more than 30—40 years of landfilling, data from laboratory simulations and accelerated tests of limited scale were also utilized. The life-cycle impact assessments show that the low-organic waste scenarios achieved better environmental performance than the household waste scenarios with regard to both ordinary and toxicity-related environmental impact categories. This indicates that the reduction of organic matter accepted at landfills (as prescribed by the European Union Landfill Directive: Council Directive 1999/31/EC, EU, Brussels, 1999) can be a successful approach to decrease the environmental loads in several impact categories in comparison with landfilling of waste with significant organic content. However, when utilization of landfill gas is accounted for in the life-cycle impact assessment calculation, the small gas generation in low-organic waste landfills reduced the actual potential for energy generation and therefore the environmental savings obtained were reduced proportionally. Groundwater pollution from input of leachate was also evaluated and the WHO ( Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality; WHO, Geneva, 2006) guideline for drinking water quality was assumed as reference. The results show that low-organic waste landfills pose a smaller risk of groundwater contamination, but the impact potentials estimated still remain a lot higher than estimated in other categories.
Case study: Apparel industry waste management: a focus on recycling in South Africa
Authors: Larney M. , van Aardt A.M.
Published: August 2009

The need for effective apparel waste management is motivated by the increasing cost and decreasing availability of landfill space and the dwindling of natural resources. The aim of this study was to identify the current solid waste disposal and recycling practices of the apparel industry in South Africa and to determine their attitude and willingness towards recycling, their perception of the feasibility thereof, barriers to recycling and marketing strategies that would be appropriate for products made from recycled materials. A structured questionnaire was mailed to apparel manufacturers in South Africa. The results indicated that most apparel manufacturers use landfills to dispose of their waste, while approximately half recycle some of the waste. They are fairly positive towards recycling, with consideration of economical feasibility. Phi-coefficients show no practically significant relationship between company size and the use of recycled materials. The most important barriers to recycling are lack of equipment and technology, lack of material to recycle and lack of consumer awareness. Marketing strategies for recycled products are recommended. It is concluded that consumer awareness and knowledge regarding recycled apparel products should be developed in order to ensure a market and that apparel manufacturers should be encouraged to recycle more extensively, in order to ensure that resources will not be exhausted unnecessarily and the environment will be preserved optimally.
Vermistabilization of sewage sludge (biosolids) by earthworms: converting a potential biohazard destined for landfill disposal into a pathogen-free, nutritive and safe biofertilizer for farms
Authors: Sinha Rajiv K. , Herat Sunil , Bharambe Gokul , Brahambhatt Ashish
Published: August 2009

Earthworms feed readily upon sludge components, rapidly converting them into vermicompost, reduce the pathogens to safe levels and ingest the heavy metals. Volume is significantly reduced from 1 m3 of wet sludge (80% moisture) to 0.5 m3 of vermicompost (30% moisture). Earthworms have real potential both to increase the rate of aerobic decomposition and composting of organic matter and also to stabilize the organic residues in the sludge — removing the harmful pathogens (by devouring them and also by discharge of antibacterial coelomic fluid) and heavy metals (by bio-accumulation). They also mineralize the essential nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from the sludge. It may not be possible to remove toxic substances completely, but at least change the ‘chemical make-up’ of the sludge to make it harmless to the soil and enable its use as a nutritive organic fertilizer. This method has been found to comply with grade A standards for sludge stabilization.
Effects of temperature treatment on corn cob composting and reducing of composting time: a comparative study
Authors: Kianirad Mehran , Muazardalan Mohammad , Savaghebi Gholamreza , Farahbakhsh Mohsen , Mirdamadi Saeed
Published: August 2009

This study focuses on the effect of temperature on the compost quality and the processing time. Two temperature, namely 46°C (high temperature) and 30°C (low temperature) were considered for the composting trials. A mixture of 60% ground corn cob, 30% dried sports grass and 10% bio-activator was used as composting material. The composting process lasted for 120 days. The maturity indices at the end of composting indicate that, for the high-temperature treatment, the compost show an improved quality as compared to the low-temperature treatment. The maturity indices, namely carbon to nitrogen ratio, water extractable organic carbon, ratio of cation exchange capacity to total organic carbon and germination index, determined for the high temperature treatment are: 13.9, 1.48 mg mL —1, 2.21, and 86%, respectively. On the basis of the compost characteristics, the processing time for the high- and low-temperature treatments was 75 days and 105 days, respectively. It can be concluded that treatment at the high-temperature level considered in this study presents a more suitable option for improvement of composting.
Picture Exchange Communication System With Individuals With Developmental Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis of Single Subject Studies
Authors: Hart Stephanie L. , Banda Devender R.
Published: August 2009

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a picture-based communication strategy used to teach communication skills to persons with developmental disabilities including autism. This article systematically reviews 13 published single-subject studies to examine the effectiveness of PECS, the effects of PECS on speech and problem behaviors, generalization beyond training conditions, and social validity of the intervention. The authors also calculated percentage of nonoverlapping data points for all participants to quantify, compare, and analyze results. Results indicate that PECS yielded increases in functional communication in all but 1 participant. Additionally, PECS decreased problem behaviors and increased speech in some individuals. A theoretical framework, analyses of methodologies, and implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
‘‘My Ever Dear’’
Authors: Fredriksen-Goldsen Karen I. , Lindhorst Taryn , Kemp Susan P. , Walters Karina L.
Published: August 2009

Same-sex intimate relationships were central to the lives of many of social work’s early women leaders. Recognizing these relationships is important to address the erasure of sexuality in the profession’s historical record and to give sexual minority social workers access to their history. This article explores conceptual issues in lesbian historical scholarship, describes the same-sex relationships of four remarkable social workers—Jane Addams, Mary Richmond, Jessie Taft, and Virginia Robinson—and calls for further research in this area.
The Soul of Family Business
Authors: Hubler Thomas M.
Published: August 2009

This is a supplement to the paper “The Family Point of View, Family Social Capital, and Firm Performance: An Exploratory Test.” The paper explores, from a practitioner’s perspective the emergence of the family point of view and defines the soul of family business. The paper also explores how a family can nurture dialog so as to create the expression of family values which may be achieved through creation of a Common Family Vision, commitment to building the emotional equity of the family, and a common communication framework that supports the discussion necessary for emergence of the family point of view.
The vocabulary of madness from Homer to Hippocrates. Part 1: The verbal group of µαίνοµαι
Authors: Perdicoyianni-Paléologou Hélène
Published: August 2009

In Part 1 of this two-part paper, I examine the evolution of the concept of madness expressed by the various forms — verbal and nominal, simple and compound — of the verbal group of µαίνομαι in the archaic and classical periods. I point out how the divine madness is contrasted to pathological madness considered as a psychic and mental disease and foreseeable by doctors as well as curable by medications. This new procedure highlights rational knowledge of the Greeks about the cause and the medical care of madness.
Congressional and Presidential Effects on the Demand for Lobbying
Authors: Baumgartner Frank R. , Larsen-Price Heather A. , Leech Beth L. , Rutledge Paul
Published: August 2009

The authors show that the number of lobbyists active in a given issue area is driven not only by social mobilizations and economic trends but also by government activity. The effect of government spending is smaller than that of congressional interest as reflected in the number of hearings. Much lobbying is in response to regulations, not budgets. The authors augment their analysis by considering indicators of presidential activities. In areas where the president is traditionally active, presidential activity is shown to divert lobbying away from Congress, reducing overall lobbying levels. The authors find strong support for the congressional demand model of lobbying.
The Politics of Requesting Appointments: Congressional Requests in the Appointment and Nomination Process
Authors: Rottinghaus Brandon , Bergan Daniel E.
Published: August 2009

There is persistent debate about who most influences the federal appointment process, especially whether the executive branch staffs the federal bureaucracy with individuals loyal to the White House or relies on the process as an accommodation to important political players, especially members of Congress. Yet, people still know little about the role members of Congress play in the process of shaping the prenomination environment. In this article, the authors address this debate by using unique archival data from the Dwight Eisenhower and Gerald Ford Presidential Libraries to identify which legislators contacted the president about a specific nomination or appointment request and under what conditions these requests were successful. The authors find that legislator resources, Senate membership, and those closer ideologically to the president are related both to the number of requests made and to the number of successful appointment or nomination requests granted. The results suggest that the president relies on members of Congress for credible information about staffing administrative positions, but they appoint or nominate individuals that are in their own interest, not necessarily to accommodate Congress.
Does Decentralization Reduce Government Size? A Quantitative Study of the Decentralization Hypothesis
Authors: Prohl Silika , Schneider Friedrich
Published: August 2009

The ‘‘decentralization hypothesis’’ in the theory of fiscal federalism suggests that fiscal decentralization may have a dampening effect on government size, implying that government intrusion into the economy can be restricted if government responsibilities for taxes and expenditures are decentralized. We study the effect of decentralization on public sector growth for a panel of twenty-nine countries over the 1978—2003 period. The major purposes of this study are twofold. First, we examine the decentralization hypothesis using two different proxy variables of fiscal decentralization: a measure of expenditure and revenue decentralization based on government financial statistics and an index of fiscal federalism that incorporates the fiscal and administrative autonomy that constitutional and statutory law grants to subnational governments. Second, and relatedly, we also explore the hypothesis that direct democracy at the local level has a dampening effect on government growth.
A Celebration: Reflections on Management Learning and the Humanities
Authors: McAulay Laurie , Sims David
Published: August 2009

This article takes as its starting point the editorial that we wrote in 1995 to lay out the directions in which we thought we might see Management Learning, the journal, and Management Learning, the field, developing during our time as editors. We anchor our comments on two references: one to a novel by Balzac in which he suggests that economic reductionism is inimical to human life, and one to an article by Hendry (2006) in which he comes to very similar conclusions, but for quite different reasons and in a different context. Along the way we refer to several other articles that have appeared in Management Learning since our editorial, and delight in the development of a tapestry of learning where the narrative, the literary, the critical, the managerial, the dramaturgical, the dialogic, the aesthetic and many others all play their part.
‘This Interpreted World’: Two Turns to the Social in Management Learning
Authors: Fox Steve
Published: August 2009

Management Learning has established itself as a new field in management and organizational studies over the last 40 years. This article outlines two shifts towards ‘social’ theorizing since 1994 when the journal was rebranded. First, the turn to critical management learning, and second, the turn to practice-based studies of management learning. Both of these shifts occurred within the broader turn towards qualitative social research. While critical management learning can lean upon critical theories through which to interpret management learning in practice, it is argued that ethnomethodologically informed practice-based studies complement these approaches by examining ‘member’s methods’ as vernacular critical practices.
The Practice Turn-Away: Forty Years of Spoon-Feeding in Management Education
Authors: Raelin Joseph A.
Published: August 2009

This article takes a whimsical look at the state of pedagogical delivery in management education over the last 40 years, and concludes that the long tradition of what the author refers to as ‘spoon-feeding in management education’ is unlikely to end anytime soon. His case is built on neo-institutional theory, which posits that the pressures to conform to standardized classroom teaching are highly resistant based on deep-seated and long-standing consensual beliefs and traditions. The principal alternative of employing practice-based and critical approaches has been diluted in favor of the promotion of reductionist and mythological active learning strategies which, though useful, are unlikely to lead to the acquisition of prudential wisdom.
Something Old, Something New and Something Puzzling: A Commentary on the Schneider–Geiger and Schreyögg Debate
Authors: Nicolini Davide
Published: August 2009

In this commentary, I suggest that the discussion between Schneider, Geiger, and Schreyögg revives some of the themes of the debate between Habermas and Luhmann, two of the main figures of post-war German social philosophy. Both Habermas and Luhmann put meaning making and knowledge at the centre of their theorization and therefore speak directly to the issue of knowledge and organizing. One of the effects of the discussion between Schneider, Geiger, and Schreyögg is that of enriching the current conversation on these themes and opening new opportunities for future research. In the commentary, however, I also note a tendency to provide a revisionist and edulcorated version of both Habermas’ ideas and some of the principles of post-modernism. I therefore ask whether we should resist readings that expunge all the emancipatory potential from radical authors so that they can become usable for managerial purposes. I conclude by purporting the idea that the mission o f organizational scholars is to generate knowledge about business but not necessarily for business.
how do mothers and fathers who have a child with a disability describe their adaptation/ transformation process?
Authors: Pelchat Diane , Levert Marie-Josée , Bourgeois-Guérin Valérie
Published: August 2009

This qualitative study explored the adaptation/transformation process in mothers and fathers at the individual, parental, marital and extrafamilial levels, and the similarities and differences in their experience of living with a child with cerebral palsy. Interviews were conducted with 13 mothers and 13 fathers of children with cerebral palsy. The results show that mothers and fathers are more likely to view the situation differently than similarly. For both parents, the situation offers the potential for transformation. Complementarity between mothers and fathers is an important factor in each of the adaptation or transformation subsystems. Both parents embark on a journey that changes their beliefs about difference, apply their new knowledge to every aspect of their life, and endeavour to normalize their situation.