bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pleural Granuloma Mimicking Malignancy 42 Years after Slurry Talc Injection for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax
Authors: Tenconi S. , Luzzi L. , Paladini P. , Voltolini L. , Gallazzi M.S. , Granato F. , Gotti G.
Published: June 2010

Background: Talc poudrage is considered a safe pleurodesis technique to improve the results of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in cases of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP). Methods: We report the case of a patient with left pleural pseudo-nodular plaque and a high metabolic rate upon PET scan suspected for malignancy, occurring 42 years after slurry talc injection for conservative treatment of PSP. The patient presented with coughing, chest pain and weight loss. Thoracotomy was required to obtain a diagnosis and perform a complete pleurectomy. Results: Histology was conclusive for pleural talc granuloma. Conclusions: Indications and possible complications of talc use in young patients with PSP, and the management of possible consequent pleural lesions suspected for malignancy, need to be investigated.
Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: From Improved Survival to Potential Cure
Authors: Gallagher David J. , Kemeny Nancy
Published: June 2010

Context: The treatment of colorectal cancer has improved considerably in recent years, but it remains the second commonest cause of cancer deaths in men and women in the United States. Better therapies have resulted in prolonged median survival for patients with metastatic disease and a select number of patients can now be cured. Evidence Acquisition: We conducted a computerized search using PubMed and Google Scholar for reports published between January 1993 and August 2009 using mesh headings and key words relating to the treatment of colorectal cancer. If reports identified by these criteria referred to other papers not in the initial search, then these were also reviewed if relevant to metastatic colorectal cancer (MCRC). Results: Seven new chemotherapy agents have been licensed for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer, with associated improved median survival from 5 months to 2 years. Complete responses are rare with systemic chemotherapy alone, but higher overall response rates to systemic and intrahepatic chemotherapies have enabled initially unresectable patients to undergo potentially curative surgical resection of metastases. Improved surgical expertise together with the adjunctive use of radiofrequency ablation has further expanded the definition of resectability. Advances in the understanding of tumor biology have resulted in the development of clinically useful biomarkers and the emergence of active biological therapies. Conclusions: The multidisciplinary management of MCRC incorporating improved systemic and local therapies continues to improve median survival and enlarge the cohort of patients that can be approached with curative intent. Recent technological advances have facilitated a better understanding of tumor biology that promises continued advancements in patient care.
Benefit of Erlotinib in Patients with Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Is Related to Smoking Status, Gender, Skin Rash and Radiological Response but Not to Histology and Treatment Line
Authors: Faehling Martin , Eckert Robert , Kuom Sabine , Kamp Torsten , Stoiber Kathrin M. , Schumann Christian
Published: June 2010

Background: Erlotinib is a standard of treatment for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer after failure of initial therapy. Patient selection based on clinical factors is under discussion. Methods: We analyzed the outcome in relation to clinical factors of 121 consecutive Caucasian patients treated with erlotinib in a routine clinical setting in a comprehensive cancer center and 2 regional oncology centers. Results: For patients with erlotinib treatment at the 1st/2nd/3rd/≧4th line, progression-free survival (PFS) was 4.5/3.5/2.5/3.0 months, and overall survival (OS) was 8.0/8.5/7.8/6.5 months. Patients with adenocarcinoma had an improved PFS, but a similar OS. Never-smokers had longer PFS (7 months) and OS (13 months) than smokers and ex-smokers. Male patients had a slightly longer survival than female patients (PFS 3.0 vs. 2.5 months, OS 8.5 vs. 7.0 months). After adjustment for smoking and histology, the gender difference in OS was significant (adjusted hazard ratio 0.57). Patients with clinically relevant skin toxicity (grade 2, 3) had a significantly prolonged PFS and OS. Patients with partial response on 1st radiological evaluation had a significantly prolonged PFS and OS. Conclusion: Among clinical factors, never-smoking status and male gender predicted a prolonged survival. During treatment, skin toxicity and radiological response were related to better survival.
Dominant Negative Actions of Human Prostacyclin Receptor Variant Through Dimerization: Implications for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Ibrahim Salam , Tetruashvily Mazell , Frey Alex J. , Wilson Stephen J. , Stitham Jeremiah , Hwa John , Smyth Emer M.
Published: June 2010

Objective—

Prostacyclin and thromboxane mediate opposing cardiovascular effects through their receptors, the prostacyclin receptor (IP) and thromboxane receptor (TP). Individuals heterozygous for an IP variant, IP
R212C
, displayed exaggerated loss of platelet IP responsiveness and accelerated cardiovascular disease. We examined association of IP
R212C
into homo- and heterodimeric receptor complexes and the impact on prostacyclin and thromboxane biology.

Methods and Results—

Dimerization of the IP, IP
R212C
, and TPα was examined by bioluminesence resonance energy transfer in transfected HEK293 cells. We observed an equal propensity for formation of IPIP homodimers and IPTPα heterodimers. Compared with the IP alone, IP
R212C
displayed reduced cAMP generation and increased endoplasmic reticulum localization but underwent normal homo- and heterodimerization. When the IP
R212C
and IP were coexpressed, a dominant negative action of the variant was evident with enhanced wild-type IP localization to the endoplasmic reticulum and reduced agonist-dependent signaling. Further, the TPα activation response, which was shifted from inositol phosphate to cAMP generation following IPTPα heterodimerization, was normalized when the TPα instead dimerized with IP
R212C
.

Conclusion—

IP
R212C
exerts a dominant action on the wild-type IP and TPα through dimerization. This likely contributes to accelerated cardiovascular disease in individuals carrying 1 copy of the variant allele.
Smad-Dependent and Smad-Independent Induction of Id1 by Prostacyclin Analogues Inhibits Proliferation of Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Yang Jun , Li Xiaohui , Al-Lamki Rafia S. , Southwood Mark , Zhao Jing , Lever Andrew M. , Grimminger Friedrich , Schermuly Ralph T. , Morrell Nicholas W.
Published: June 2010

Rationale
:

Mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR-II) are responsible for the majority of cases of heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Mutations lead to reduced Smad1/5-driven expression of inhibitor of DNA binding protein 1 (Id1) and loss of the growth suppressive effects of BMPs. The impact of existing PAH therapies on BMP signaling is lacking.

Objective
:

Because prostacyclin analogues are effective treatments for clinical PAH, we hypothesized that these agents enhance Smad1/Id1 signaling.

Methods and Results
:

Iloprost alone induced Id1 expression in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), an effect that was independent of Smad1/5 activation but dependent on a cAMP-responsive element in the Id1 promoter. In addition, iloprost and treprostinil enhanced BMP-induced phosphorylation of Smad1/5 and Id1 expression in a cAMP-dependent manner. The mechanism involved suppression of inhibitory Smad, Smad6. Furthermore, iloprost rescued the deficit in Smad1/5 phosphorylation and Id gene expression in PASMCs harboring mutations in BMPR-II and restored growth suppression to BMP4 in mutant PASMCs. We confirmed a critical role for Id1 in PASMC proliferation. Reduced expression of Id1 was observed in concentric intimal lesions of heritable PAH cases. In the monocrotaline rat model of PAH, associated with reduced BMPR-II expression, we confirmed that treprostinil inhibited smooth muscle cell proliferation and prevented progression of PAH while enhancing Smad1/5 phosphorylation and Id1 gene expression.

Conclusions
:

Prostacyclin analogues enhance Id1 expression in vitro and in vivo and restore deficient BMP signaling in BMPR-II mutant PASMCs.
Increased Endothelial Exocytosis and Generation of Endothelin-1 Contributes to Constriction of Aged Arteries
Authors: Goel Aditya , Su Baogen , Flavahan Sheila , Lowenstein Charles J. , Berkowitz Dan E. , Flavahan Nicholas A.
Published: June 2010

Rationale
:

Circulating levels of endothelin (ET)-1 and endogenous ET
A
-mediated constriction are increased in human aging. The mechanisms responsible are not known.

Objective
:

Investigate the storage, release, and activity of ET-1 system in arteries from young and aged Fischer-344 rats.

Methods and Results
:

After NO synthase inhibition (L-NAME), thrombin contracted aged arteries, which was inhibited by endothelial denudation, ET
A
receptor antagonism (BQ123), and ECE inhibition (phosphoramidon, SM19712) or by inhibiting exocytosis (TAT-NSF,
N
-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor inhibitor). Thrombin did not cause endothelium-dependent contraction of young arteries. In aged but not young arteries, thrombin rapidly increased ET-1 release, which was abolished by endothelium denudation or TAT-NSF. L-NAME did not affect ET-1 release. ET-1 immunofluorescent staining was punctate and distinct from von Willebrand factor (VWF). VWF and ET-1 immunofluorescent intensity was similar in young and aged quiescent arteries. Thrombin rapidly increased ET-1 staining and decreased VWF staining in aged but had no effect in young aortas. After L-NAME, thrombin decreased VWF staining in young aortas. NO donor DEA-NONOate (1 to 100 nmol/L) reversed thrombin-induced exocytosis in young (VWF) but not aged L-NAME–treated aortas (VWF, ET-1). Expression of preproET-1 mRNA and ECE-1 mRNA were increased in aged compared to young endothelium. BigET-1 levels and contraction to exogenous BigET-1 (but not ET-1) were also increased in aged compared to young arteries.

Conclusions
:

The stimulated exocytotic release of ET-1 is dramatically increased in aged endothelium. This reflects increased reactivity of exocytosis, increased expression and storage of ET-1 precursor peptides, and increased expression of ECE-1. Altered endothelial exocytosis of ET-1 and other mediators may contribute to cardiovascular pathology in aging.
Preferential Oxidation of Triacylglyceride-Derived Fatty Acids in Heart Is Augmented by the Nuclear Receptor PPARα
Authors: Banke Natasha H. , Wende Adam R. , Leone Teresa C. , O'Donnell J. Michael , Abel E. Dale , Kelly Daniel P. , Lewandowski E. Douglas
Published: June 2010

Rationale
:

Long chain fatty acids (LCFAs) are the preferred substrate for energy provision in hearts. However, the contribution of endogenous triacylglyceride (TAG) turnover to LCFA oxidation and the overall dependence of mitochondrial oxidation on endogenous lipid is largely unstudied.

Objective
:

We sought to determine the role of TAG turnover in supporting LCFA oxidation and the influence of the lipid-activated nuclear receptor, proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α, on this balance.

Methods and Results
:

Palmitoyl turnover within TAG and palmitate oxidation rates were quantified in isolated hearts, from normal mice (nontransgenic) and mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of PPARα (MHC-PPARα). Turnover of palmitoyl units within TAG, and thus palmitoyl-coenzyme A recycling, in nontransgenic (4.5±2.3 μmol/min per gram dry weight) was 3.75-fold faster than palmitate oxidation (1.2±0.4). This high rate of palmitoyl unit turnover indicates preferential oxidation of palmitoyl units derived from TAG in normal hearts. PPARα overexpression augmented TAG turnover 3-fold over nontransgenic hearts, despite similar fractions of acetyl-coenzyme A synthesis from palmitate and oxygen use at the same workload. Palmitoyl turnover within TAG of MHC-PPARα hearts (16.2±2.9,
P
<0.05) was 12.5-fold faster than oxidation (1.3±0.2). Elevated TAG turnover in MHC-PPARα correlated with increased mRNA for enzymes involved in both TAG synthesis, Gpam (glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase, mitochondrial), Dgat1 (diacylglycerol acetyltransferase 1), and Agpat3 (1-acylglycerol-3-phospate
O
-acyltransferase 3), and lipolysis, Pnliprp1 (pancreatic lipase related protein 1).

Conclusions
:

The role of endogenous TAG in supporting β-oxidation in the normal heart is much more dynamic than previously thought, and lipolysis provides the bulk of LCFA for oxidation. Accelerated palmitoyl turnover in TAG, attributable to chronic PPARα activation, results in near requisite oxidation of LCFAs from TAG.
Hospital Mortality and Complications of Electively Clipped or Coiled Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: Alshekhlee Amer , Mehta Sonal , Edgell Randall C. , Vora Nirav , Feen Eli , Mohammadi Afshin , Kale Sushant P. , Cruz-Flores Salvador
Published: June 2010

Background and Purpose—

To determine the hospital mortality rates associated with elective surgical clipping and endovascular coiling of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.

Methods—

We identified a cohort of patients electively admitted to US hospitals with the diagnosis of unruptured intracranial aneurysm from the National Inpatient Sample database for the years 2000 through 2006. Patient demographics, hospital-associated complications, and in-hospital mortality were compared among the treatment groups. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent variables associated with hospital mortality. Cochrane–Armitage test was used to assess the trend of hospital use of these procedures.

Results—

After data cleansing, 3738 (34.3%) patients had aneurysm clipping and 3498 (32.1%) had endovascular coiling. The basic demographics including age, race, and comorbidity indices were similar between the groups. The length of hospital stay was longer in the clipped population (median 4 versus 1 day;
P
<0.0001), incurring a higher hospital charge in the coiled population (median $42 070 versus $38 166;
P
<0.0001). Hospital mortality was higher in the clipped population: 60 (1.6%) versus 20 (0.57%; adjusted odds ratio 3.63; 95% CI, 1.57, 8.42). Perioperative intracerebral hemorrhage and acute ischemic stroke were higher in the clipped population. The rate of hospital use of the endovascular coiling has increased over the years included in this study (<0.0001).

Conclusions—

Elective coiling of unruptured intracranial aneurysms is associated with fewer deaths and perioperative complications compared with elective clipping. The trend of hospital use of the coiling procedures has increased during recent years.
Spontaneous Angiographic Conversion of Intracranial Dural Arteriovenous Shunt
Authors: Kim Dong Joon , terBrugge Karel , Krings Timo , Willinsky Robert , Wallace Christopher
Published: June 2010

Background and Purpose—

Dural arteriovenous shunt (DAVS) is a disease in which abnormal arteriovenous communications develop within the dura. Some case series have suggested DAVS may evolve over time, but the natural history is poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to define the incidence and clinical characteristics of patients with DAVS showing spontaneous angiographic pattern conversion.

Methods—

We assessed clinical and angiographic features of patients with angiographic conversion without any treatment from a single center database consisting of 335 DAVS cases. Spontaneous angiographic conversion was defined as complete occlusion of a pre-existing DAVS or conversion of a benign into an aggressive lesion on follow-up diagnostic subtraction angiography.

Results—

One hundred twelve patients were followed without treatment after the initial diagnosis of DAVS. Overall, we saw pattern conversion on angiography in 18 of the 112 cases (16.1%). Fourteen patients showed spontaneous occlusion of the shunt (12.5%); the most common locations of spontaneous obliteration were the transverse and cavernous sinuses. Four patients showed conversion to an aggressive lesion from benign DAVS (4.0%); all of these cases were associated with occlusion of the ipsilateral draining vein.

Conclusions—

DAVS is a dynamic disorder, which will show chronological progression. Spontaneous angiographic obliteration or conversion into an aggressive type may occur on follow-up of untreated DAVSs.
Safety of Recombinant Activated Factor VII in Patients With Warfarin-Associated Hemorrhages of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Robinson Maisha T. , Rabinstein Alejandro A. , Meschia James F. , Freeman William D.
Published: June 2010

Background and Purpose—

Recombinant Factor VIIa decreases hematoma growth after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and rapidly decreases international normalized ratios in patients on warfarin but is also associated with an increased risk for thromboembolic complications. In this study, we assessed the risk of thromboembolic events in patients receiving recombinant Factor VIIa after ICH associated with warfarin treatment.

Methods—

We reviewed the medical charts, laboratory data, and radiological findings of consecutive patients with anticoagulation-related hemorrhages of the central nervous system who received recombinant Factor VIIa at Mayo Clinic Rochester and Mayo Clinic Florida between 2002 and 2009. The primary end point was the frequency of new thromboembolic events, including myocardial infarction, deep vein thrombosis, ischemic stroke, and pulmonary embolism.

Results—

We identified 101 patients; 54% had ICH and 30% subdural hematomas. The most common indications for anticoagulation were atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and prosthetic valve. Thirteen patients (12.8%) had new thromboembolic events (10 deep vein thromboses and 3 ischemic strokes) within 90 days after recombinant Factor VIIa administration. Eight of these adverse events occurred within 2 weeks of treatment. In patients with ICH, the rate of thromboembolic complications was 5% and all events were venous.

Conclusion—

The risk of thromboembolic events in patients who received recombinant Factor VIIa for anticoagulation-associated ICH was not higher than that seen in patients treated for spontaneous ICH in the Factor Seven for Acute Hemorrhagic Stroke (FAST) trial. Spontaneous deep vein thrombosis was the most common complication in our series.
Neonatal Cerebral Sinovenous Thrombosis From Symptom to Outcome
Authors: Berfelo Florieke J. , Kersbergen Karina J. , van Ommen C. H.(Heleen) , Govaert Paul , van Straaten H. L.M.(Irma) , Poll-The Bwee-Tien , van Wezel-Meijler Gerda , Vermeulen R. Jeroen , Groenendaal Floris , de Vries Linda S. , de Haan Timo R.
Published: June 2010

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral sinovenous thrombosis is a rare disease with severe neurological sequelae. The aim of this retrospective multicenter study was to investigate the clinical course, possible risk factors, and outcome of a cohort of neonatal patients with sinovenous thrombosis and, second, to estimate the incidence in The Netherlands.

Methods—

From January 1999 to March 2009, a review of all neonatal patients with sinovenous thrombosis from 6 tertiary neonatal intensive care units was performed. Population characteristics, clinical presentation, (prothrombotic) risk factors, neuroimaging, interventions, and neurodevelopment were evaluated. An estimated incidence was calculated based on the Netherlands Perinatal Registry.

Results—

Fifty-two neonates were included (39 boys) with a median gestational age of 39 weeks (range, 30 to 42 weeks; 5 preterm). An assisted or complicated delivery occurred in 32 of 52. Presenting symptoms developed at a median postnatal age of 1.5 days (range, 0 to 28 days) and consisted mainly of seizures (29 of 52). All sinovenous thrombosis cases were confirmed with MRI/MR venography. Multisinus thrombosis was most common followed by superior sagittal sinus thrombosis. FII G20210A mutation was present in 2 of 18 tested neonates (11%). Anticoagulation therapy (in 22 of 52) did not result in hemorrhagic complications. At follow-up (median age, 19 months; range, 3 to 72 months), moderate to severe neurological sequelae were present in 38%. The mortality was 10 of 52 (19%). A variable, although high yearly incidence of 1.4 to 12 per 100 000 term newborns was found.

Conclusions—

Neonatal sinovenous thrombosis is a multifactorial disease. The estimated incidence in The Netherlands seems higher than reported elsewhere.
Physicians’ Perspectives on Referring Obese Adolescents to Pediatric Multidisciplinary Weight Management Programs
Authors: Woolford Susan J. , Clark Sarah J. , Gebremariam Achamyeleh , Davis Matthew M. , Freed Gary L.
Published: June 2010

Objective: To identify factors that might influence physicians’ referrals of obese adolescents to pediatric multidisciplinary weight management (PMWM) programs. Design/methods: Survey of a national sample of 375 pediatricians (PDs) and 375 family physicians (FPs) explored program availability, referral history, desired services, and when in the course of treatment physicians would refer. Differences were examined via χ2 tests. Results: Response rate was 67%. More PDs than FPs reported having a PMWM program available (46% vs 10%, P < .01). More PDs (PD 83% vs FP 53%, P < .01) and female physicians (88% vs 65%, P < .01) reported having made a referral. Most physicians wanted coordinated diet, activity, and behavioral therapy (79%). Almost all physicians indicated they would refer when unsure of what else to do, or if requested by the patient/parent. Conclusions: PMWM program referrals appear limited by availability. These data also suggest physicians may be reticent to refer. Further work should examine whether this affects patient outcomes.
Parent Knowledge, Attitudes, and Household Practices Regarding SHS Exposure: A Case-Control Study of Urban Children With and Without Asthma
Authors: Halterman Jill S. , Conn Kelly M. , Hernandez Telva , Tanski Susanne E.
Published: June 2010

Impoverished children suffer disproportionately from asthma and are more likely than other children to be exposed to secondhand smoke (SHS). We conducted a case-control study to describe and compare knowledge, attitudes, and household practices regarding SHS exposure among parents of young urban children with and without asthma (response rate, 76%). Overall, 39% of children lived with ≥1 smoker (cases, 36%; controls, 43%). The majority of parents (78%) felt that cigarette smoking is very dangerous and agreed that smoke harms the health of children (97%). Cases were more likely than controls to report that smoking in a car affects children’s health (54% vs 42%) and that smoking in front of children is never allowed in their home (88% vs 79%). Additionally, more cases reported a home smoking ban (81% vs 70%). Our findings suggest that parents of children with asthma have somewhat better knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding SHS; however, gaps remain, and many urban children continue to be exposed.
Clinical Features, Risk Factors, and Complications Among Pediatric Patients With Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1)
Authors: Plessa Eleni , Diakakis Panagiotis , Gardelis John , Thirios Athanasios , Koletsi Patra , Falagas Matthew E.
Published: June 2010

Objective. The authors aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics, clinical features, risk factors for severe disease, and complications in children with laboratory-confirmed pandemic influenza A (H1N1). Methods. H1N1 was confirmed by performing reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay on oropharyngeal swab specimens. The medical charts of a subset of the evaluated patients were reviewed retrospectively; another subset was enrolled prospectively. Results. A total of 51 patients (44 [86%] > 5 years) were identified to have laboratory-confirmed H1N1. Fever was the most common presenting symptom (92%). Of the 15 hospitalized patients, 4 had asthma, and 5 were overweight or obese. All but 1 of these 9 patients developed influenza-related complications. Overall, 10 of the 15 hospitalized patients (67%) developed an influenza-related complication (6 bronchitis and 4 pneumonia). Conclusion. In this cohort, most children with confirmed H1N1 infection experience an uncomplicated viral illness. Nevertheless, underlying asthma and obesity may aggravate their clinical course.
A Prospective Observational Study of US In-office Pediatric Influenza Vaccination During the 2007 to 2009 Influenza Seasons: Use and Factors Associated With Increased Vaccination Rates
Authors: Bhatt Praful , Block Stan L. , Toback Seth L. , Ambrose Christopher S.
Published: June 2010

In the United States, annual influenza vaccine is now recommended for all children 6 months through 18 years of age. This 2-year observational study of US outpatient pediatricians’ offices captured office demographics and characteristics, recorded all influenza vaccinations administered and vaccination-related activities during the influenza season, and correlated office characteristics and activities associated with increased vaccine uptake. Offices generally offered the influenza vaccine from September through February and March; however, approximately 80% of vaccinations occurred in October through December. In 2008-2009 compared with 2007-2008, offices administered the vaccine earlier and later into the season. Estimated in-office rates of first-dose administration, 2-dose compliance, and use of the intranasal vaccine also increased. Qualitative analyses suggest that increased first-dose administration and 2-dose compliance rates are associated with smaller office size and a greater duration of vaccine availability, respectively, during both seasons.
Energy Absorption of Integrated Functionally Gradient Syntactic Foam
Authors: Chittineni Kanakaji , Woldesenbet Eyassu
Published: June 2010

Functionally gradient syntactic foams (FGSFs) are fabricated using a layer-over-layer integrated technique in five different layer sequences. Four different types of glass microballoons, with similar outer diameters but different inner diameters are used to fabricate individual layers in integrated FGSFs (IFGSFs). The volume fraction of microballoons in each IFGSF layer is kept constant at 60% to maintain uniformity in the structure. The different layers of IFGSFs are integrated before major solidification takes place. IFGSFs are investigated for flat-wise and edge-wise compression properties on a MTS-810 servo hydraulic machine. Compared to plain syntactic foams with a similar density, it is found that the energy absorption of flat-wise and edge-wise IFGSFs increase by more than 200% and 20%, respectively. Also, the IFGSFs show a dramatic increment in compressive properties compared to adhesively bonded FGSFs. Furthermore, IFGSFs are compared to one another to examine the effect of layer sequencing on flat-wise and edge-wise compressive behavior. The layer sequencing effect on crack propagation behavior of IFGSF is carefully monitored and analyzed with an optical microscope (OM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Rotational Foam Molding of Metallocene Catalyzed Polyethylene: CBA Screening and Process Characteristics
Authors: Emami M. , Takacs E. , Vlachopoulos J.
Published: June 2010

The objective of this work is to investigate the effects of different chemical blowing agents (CBAs) and processing conditions on the cellular structure of foamed metallocene polyethylene and characterize an appropriate blowing agent. An experimental study was conducted to produce metallocene polyethylene foams in dry-blending-based rotational foam molding. The critical processing parameters that optimize the foam structure have been identified through modifications of the molding conditions. The physical properties and cellular structure of the final foamed parts were also examined. The foaming performance of exothermic and endothermic CBAs was studied. It was revealed that selecting a suitable CBA is crucial as the foam structure depends significantly on the properties of the blowing agent. Exothermic blowing agents resulted in greater foam density reduction and exhibited a wider processing window compared to endothermic blowing agents. It was found that a balance between different properties of the blowing agent is required to achieve control over the foam structure.
An Elephant’s Eye View of the Mouse: American Impressions of Canadian Governance
Authors: Lee Baker Dana
Published: June 2010

Canada and the United States share a border with one of the longest peaceful existencies in the world. Yet relationships between the two countries, while seemingly routine, often lack transparency and mutual comprehension. Of particular concern in Canada is a growing impression that public discourse in the United States considers Canadian governance to be flawed. This article employs the cases of terrorism and SARS to examine discourse regarding Canadian public administration in the United States press. The results of this analysis not only demonstrate elements of the American understanding of Canada but also speak to the role of peer nations in domestic policy discourse.
The Ethnic Dimension of Religious Extremism and Terrorism in Central Asia
Authors: Omelicheva Mariya Y.
Published: June 2010

This study seeks to demonstrate and explain the variation in the extent of support for radical Islamic groups by ethnic minorities in the Central Asian states. It maintains that two related factors — the greater Islamicization of Uzbeks and Tajiks, and the escalating campaign of religious persecution of the ethnic minorities — have contributed to the greater support for Islamists among Uzbeks and Tajiks than among representatives of other ethnic groups. The research draws on social movement theory to explicate the impact of Islamic identification and religious persecution on the success of recruiting and mobilization efforts by radical Islamic groups.
Effects of a Tier 2 intervention on literacy measures: Lessons learned
Authors: Kerins Marie R. , Trotter Dawn , Schoenbrodt Lisa
Published: June 2010

Response to intervention (RTI) provides an opportunity to avoid long-term and sometimes costly intervention. The best models of the tiered approach to intervention are still under investigation. In this study, 23 first-grade students were identified as having below average reading abilities and/ or poor phonemic awareness through classroom-based and standardized assessments and then randomly divided into two groups. One group received explicit phonemic awareness training with the speech—language pathologists (SLP) and multi-sensory reading instruction from a special educator in conjunction with classroom instruction. The remaining group received exclusively classroom reading instruction. No significant differences were found when comparing results of classroom-based intervention to students receiving classroom intervention plus 16 hours of additional intensive instruction. Both groups demonstrated overall improvements in reading efficiency, including segmenting and blending. Implications are discussed comparing Tier 1 and Tier 2 approaches with children scoring below expectations using formal and informal reading measures.
Does Performance Management Affect Job Turnover Intention in the Federal Government?
Authors: Lee Geon , Jimenez Benedict S.
Published: June 2010

From a reform strategy that promises to restore citizen confidence in government, to a hydra-headed monster that has produced unintended negative consequences, performance management has indeed been a controversial topic in the field of public administration. This study examines how performance-based management practices shape organizational behavior, specifically employee job turnover intention. Using data from the 2005 Merit Principles Survey, the authors find that performance-based reward system and performance-supporting supervision are associated with a decrease in the likelihood that federal employees will leave their agencies. The implications of the findings are discussed in the study.
Posterior Thigh Muscle Injuries in Elite Track and Field Athletes
Authors: Malliaropoulos Nikolaos , Papacostas Emmanuel , Kiritsi Olga , Rad PGD-MSK , Papalada Agapi , Gougoulias Nikolaos , Maffulli Nicola
Published: June 2010

Introduction: Posterior thigh muscle injuries in athletes are common, and prediction of recovery time would be of value.

Hypothesis: Knee active range of motion deficit 48 hours after a unilateral posterior thigh muscle injury correlates with time to full recovery.

Study Design: Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods: One hundred sixty-five track and field athletes with acute, first-time, unilateral posterior thigh muscle injuries were prospectively evaluated regarding knee active range of motion deficit. This was compared with the uninjured side 48 hours after injury. A control group was also examined. Ultrasound was used to image the muscle lesion. All athletes were managed nonoperatively with the same rehabilitation protocol. The “full rehabilitation time” (interval from the injury to full athletic activities) was recorded.

Results: Range of motion of the affected leg was decreased in the 165 injured athletes compared with the uninjured side and the control group. Sonography identified abnormalities in 55% (90 of 165) of the injured athletes. The biceps femoris was the most commonly affected muscle (68 of 90 [75%]). The musculotendinous junction (proximal or distal) was involved in 93% (85 of 90) of lesions. Eighty-one percent (133 of 165) of athletes had active range of motion deficit of less than 20°, and had returned to full performance at 2 weeks. In 6 of 165 athletes (3.6%), with active range of motion deficit of more than 30°, recovery time exceeded 6 weeks, with a significant correlation between full rehabilitation time and active range of motion deficit (χ2 = 152.560; P = .0001).

Conclusion: Knee active range of motion deficit is an objective and accurate measurement, predicting recovery time in elite athletes.
Using Social Self-Identification in Social Marketing Materials Aimed at Reducing Violence Against Women on Campus
Authors: Potter Sharyn J. , Moynihan Mary M. , Stapleton Jane G.
Published: June 2010

Bystander-focused in person sexual violence prevention programs provide an opportunity for skill development among bystanders and for widening the safety net for survivors. A social marketing campaign was designed modeling prosocial bystander behavior and using content familiar to target audience members by staging and casting scenes to look similar to the people and situations that the target audience regularly encounters. We refer to this sense of familiarity as social self-identification. In this exploratory study, we attempt to understand how seeing oneself and one’s peer group (e.g., social self-identification) in poster images affects target audience members’ (e.g., college students) willingness to intervene as a prosocial bystander. The posters in the social marketing campaign were displayed throughout a midsize northeastern public university campus and neighboring local businesses frequented by students. During the last week of the 4-week poster display, the university’s homepage portal featured an advertisement displaying a current model of an iPod offering undergraduate students an opportunity to win the device if they completed a community survey. We found that among students who had seen the posters, those who indicated that the scenes portrayed in the posters looked like situations that were familiar to them were significantly more likely to contemplate taking action in preventing a situation where sexual violence had the potential to occur. Furthermore, students who indicated familiarity with the poster content were more likely to indicate that they had acted in a manner similar to those portrayed in the poster. Future directions based on findings from this exploratory study are discussed.
Promoting the priorities of practitioner research engagement
Authors: Hall Hazel
Published: June 2010

One of the aims of the Library and Information Science Research Coalition is to promote library and information science practitioner research. Successfully meeting this aim should result in greater use of the existing knowledge base and the creation of new knowledge on Library and Information Science (LIS) practice. LIS practitioner engagement in research should also be channelled to build an evidence base that demonstrates the value and impact of LIS practice. Possible means of the LIS practitioner community meeting these goals is discussed with reference to the support offered by the Library and Information Science Research Coalition.
Modeling Damage of the Hydrogen Enhanced Localized Plasticity in Stress Corrosion Cracking
Authors: Benbelaid S. , Belouchrani M.A. , Assoul Y. , Bezzazi B.
Published: June 2010

Stress corrosion cracking is an important and complex mode of failure in high-performance structural metals operating in deleterious environments, due to metallurgical, mechanical, and electrochemical factors. Depending on the material/solution system, the stress corrosion cracking mechanism may involve a combination of hydrogen embrittlement (HE) and anodic dissolution. In this article, a numerical model for predicting the mechanical behavior of hydrogen-induced damage in stress corrosion cracking is described. The methodology of modeling used in this study is based on the thermodynamics of continuum solids and elastoplastic damage. This model is based on a stress corrosion mechanism that occurs through the simultaneous interaction of hydrogen and plasticity. This mechanism is also called hydrogen-enhanced localized plasticity, which is a viable mechanism for hydrogen embrittlement. The model is applied to the fatigue damage problems of nuclear reactor pipe, and the results are compared with published fatigue life data obtained experimentally.
Turnout and the (effective) number of parties at the national and district levels: A puzzle-solving approach
Authors: Grofman Bernard , Selb Peter
Published: June 2010

Blais (2006) and Blais and Aarts (2006) in their review essays on voter turnout call attention to a striking puzzle about the link between electoral systems and turnout, namely that, ceteris paribus, proportional representation (PR) systems with many parties appear to have higher national-level turnout than single-member district (SMD) plurality systems with few parties, yet turnout does not increase with the (effective) number of parties (ENP) at the national level. To address this puzzle we turn to district-specific within-nation panel data from Switzerland and Spain. Our country-specific findings allow us to explain the national-level puzzle as essentially an ecological artefact, in that the multi-member districts found in proportional systems, on average, do exhibit higher turnout than SMDs, but turnout does not rise with district magnitude, m, once we move beyond the contrast between m = 1 and m > 1. Using a more sophisticated approach to measuring political competition that does not treat all PR systems as generating identical turnout incentives (Grofman and Selb, 2009), we seek to explain this puzzle by showing both empirically and theoretically that (1) proportionality does not necessarily increase with district magnitude, and (2) competition does not necessarily increase with district magnitude.
Development and Validation of an Instrument to Assess Perceived Social Influence on Health Behaviors
Authors: Holt Cheryl L. , Clark Eddie M. , Roth David L. , Crowther Martha , Kohler Connie , Fouad Mona , Foushee Rusty , Lee Patricia A. , Southward Penny L.
Published: June 2010

Assessment of social influence on health behavior is often approached through a situational context. The current study adapted an existing, theory-based instrument from another content domain to assess Perceived Social Influence on Health Behavior (PSI-HB) among African Americans, using an individual difference approach. The adapted instrument was found to have high internal reliability (α = .81—.84) and acceptable testretest reliability ( r = .68—.85). A measurement model revealed a three-factor structure and supported the theoretical underpinnings. Scores were predictive of health behaviors, particularly among women. Future research using the new instrument may have applied value assessing social influence in the context of health interventions.
Gardening Promotes Neuroendocrine and Affective Restoration from Stress
Authors: Van Den Berg Agnes E. , Custers Mariëtte H.G.
Published: June 2010

Stress-relieving effects of gardening were hypothesized and tested in a field experiment. Thirty allotment gardeners performed a stressful Stroop task and were then randomly assigned to 30 minutes of outdoor gardening or indoor reading on their own allotment plot. Salivary cortisol levels and self-reported mood were repeatedly measured. Gardening and reading each led to decreases in cortisol during the recovery period, but decreases were significantly stronger in the gardening group. Positive mood was fully restored after gardening, but further deteriorated during reading. These findings provide the first experimental evidence that gardening can promote relief from acute stress.
The policy impact of leadership in committees: Rapporteurs’ influence on the European Parliament’s opinions
Authors: Costello Rory , Thomson Robert
Published: June 2010

What impact do leaders in the European Parliament’s (EP) committees have on the EP’s opinions? This study formulates and tests expectations about the conditions under which rapporteurs influence the EP’s opinions and also about what factors motivate that influence. In line with the informational theory of legislative committees, the most important factor affecting the EP’s opinion is the policy position of the median MEP, not a characteristic of the rapporteur. Nonetheless, the evidence shows that rapporteurs influence the EP’s opinions when legislative proposals are subject to early agreements under the co-decision procedure and when the consultation procedure applies. Rapporteurs’ influence is motivated primarily by national interests, rather than by the interests of their EP party groups.
Cross-border mobility and European identity: The effectiveness of intergroup contact during the ERASMUS year abroad
Authors: Sigalas Emmanuel
Published: June 2010

Cross-border people mobility has long been seen as a promising method to promote European integration. In this article, I test the premise that the ERASMUS student experience abroad and direct interpersonal contact promote a European identity. The results draw from a two-wave longitudinal survey on two samples of ERASMUS students who studied in continental Europe and England, respectively. Although studying abroad led to increased socializing with other Europeans, contact with host country students remained limited. The paired sample t-tests reveal that ERASMUS does not strengthen students’ European identity; on the contrary, it can have an adverse effect on it. Nevertheless, the regression analyses show that increased socializing with Europeans has a positive, though modest, impact on European identity.
Bridging bureaucracy and democracy in Europe: A comparative study of perceived managerial excellence, satisfaction with public services, and trust in governance
Authors: Vigoda-Gadot Eran , Shoham Aviv , Vashdi Dana R
Published: June 2010

The cross-country study of public administration based on citizens’ surveys in Europe is a relatively novel approach to analyzing the social and political dynamics of the continent. The goal of this study is to examine some aspects of bureaucracy and democracy as perceived by knowledgeable citizens in six countries (Ireland, Israel, Lithuania, Norway, Slovakia, and Spain). A rationale is developed to support hypotheses about the relationship between democracy and bureaucracy. The study also proposes hypotheses about differences between the countries in terms of satisfaction with public services, trust in governance and public administration agencies, and a set of managerial-oriented variables of the public sector (i.e. perceived innovation, responsiveness, professionalism, organizational politics, leadership and vision, ethics and morality). The study’s findings indicate that various aspects of bureaucracy and democracy differ across countries and that democratic longevity may be a good explanation for these differences.
Vista, vision and visual consumption from the Age of Enlightenment
Authors: de Burgh-Woodman Helene , Brace-Govan Janice
Published: June 2010

Drawing on previous discussions of visual consumption in marketing, this paper uses two historical examples to examine visuality and the enduring effect of the Age of Enlightenment on visual consumption. Drawing on the French garden and the philosophical trope of the Molyneux Man, the manner in which the consumption experience is mediated and narrated through vision is considered. It is argued that cultural perspective and individual perception work in constant dialogue to produce an individual’s ability to consume, or ‘take in’, visual signs inherent to our world. From the Enlightenment, this interaction has characterized the contemporary consumer’s world, but, importantly for marketing communications, this becomes more significant in today’s burgeoning visual consumption experiences.
Modelling distortions in seroprevalence data using change-point fractional polynomials
Authors: Hens N , Kvitkovicova A , Aerts M , Hlubinka D , Beutels P
Published: June 2010

This paper shows how to model seroprevalence data using change-point fractional polynomials (FPs). The inclusion of a change point in the FP framework allows to detect distortions arising from common (often untestable) assumptions made in the estimation of the age-specific prevalence and force of infection from cross-sectional data. The method is motivated using seroprevalence data on the parvovirus B19 and the varicella zoster virus in Belgium.
The Work of Culture
Authors: Bennett Tony
Published: June 2010

The formulations of cultural sociology have a tendency to merge culture and the social so closely that they become indistinguishable from one another. Drawing on Foucauldian governmentality theory and actor network theory, this article argues that it is preferable to examine the processes through which culture is separated off from the social via the production of distinctive cultural assemblages.The kinds of issues that need to be taken into consideration to account for the work that goes into making culture as a publicly differentiated realm are identified. Attention then focuses on the kinds of work that culture does in being brought to act on the ‘working surfaces on the social’ that are organized in the relations between social and cultural knowledges. The argument is exemplified by considering how the assemblages of Aboriginal culture produced by Baldwin Spencer enabled the production of a new surface of social management through which the relations between white and Aboriginal Australia were organized in the context of the Aboriginal domain.
Emotion Research by the People, for the People
Authors: Picard Rosalind W.
Published: June 2010

Emotion research will leap forward when its focus changes from comparing averaged statistics of self-report data across people experiencing emotion in laboratories to characterizing patterns of data from individuals and clusters of similar individuals experiencing emotion in real life. Such an advance will come about through engineers and psychologists collaborating to create new ways for people to measure, share, analyze, and learn from objective emotional responses in situations that truly matter to people. This approach has the power to greatly advance the science of emotion while also providing personalized help to participants in the research.