bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADMA injures the glomerular filtration barrier: role of nitric oxide and superoxide
Authors: Sharma Mukut , Zhou Zongmin , Miura Hiroto , Papapetropoulos Andreas , McCarthy Ellen T. , Sharma Ram , Savin Virginia J. , Lianos Elias A.
Published: March 2009

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with decreased renal nitric oxide (NO) production and increased plasma levels of methylarginines. The naturally occurring guanidino-methylated arginines N-monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA) and asymmetric dimethyl-l-arginine (ADMA) inhibit NO synthase activity. We hypothesized that ADMA and l-NMMA compromise the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier via NO depletion. We studied the effect of ADMA on albumin permeability (Palb) in isolated glomeruli and examined whether this effect involves NO- and superoxide (O2•−)-dependent mechanisms. ADMA at concentrations found in circulation of patients with CKD decreased cGMP and increased Palbin a dose-dependent manner. A similar increase in Palbwas caused by l-NMMA but at a concentration two orders of magnitude higher than that of ADMA. NO donor DETA-NONOate or cGMP analog abrogated the effect of ADMA on Palb. The SOD mimetic tempol or the NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor apocynin also prevented the ADMA-induced increase in Palb. The NO-independent soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) activator BAY 41–2272, at concentrations that increased glomerular cGMP production, attenuated the ADMA-induced increase in Palb. Furthermore, sGC incapacitation by the heme site-selective inhibitor ODQ increased Palb. We conclude that ADMA compromises the integrity of the filtration barrier by altering the bioavailability of NO and O2•−and that NO-independent activation of sGC preserves the integrity of this barrier under conditions of NO depletion. NO-independent activation of sGS may be a useful pharmacotherapeutic approach for preservation of glomerular function in CKD thereby reducing the risk for cardiovascular events.
Pontine–Ventral Respiratory Column Interactions Through Raphé Circuits Detected Using Multi-Array Spike Train Recordings
Authors: Nuding Sarah C. , Segers Lauren S. , Baekey David M. , Dick Thomas E. , Solomon Irene C. , Shannon Roger , Morris Kendall F. , Lindsey Bruce G.
Published: March 2009

Recently, Segers et al. identified functional connectivity between the ventrolateral respiratory column (VRC) and the pontine respiratory group (PRG). The apparent sparseness of detected paucisynaptic interactions motivated consideration of other potential functional pathways between these two regions. We report here evidence for “indirect” serial functional linkages between the PRG and VRC via intermediary brain stem midline raphé neurons. Arrays of microelectrodes were used to record sets of spike trains from a total of 145 PRG, 282 VRC, and 340 midline neurons in 11 decerebrate, vagotomized, neuromuscularly blocked, ventilated cats. Spike trains of 13,843 pairs of neurons that included at least one raphé cell were screened for respiratory modulation and short-time scale correlations. Significant correlogram features were detected in 7.2% of raphé–raphé (291/4,021), 4.3% of VRC–raphé (292/6,755), and 4.0% of the PRG–raphé (124/3,067) neuron pairs. Central peaks indicative of shared influences were the most common feature in correlations between pairs of raphé neurons, whereas correlated raphé–PRG and raphé–VRC neuron pairs displayed predominantly offset peaks and troughs, features suggesting a paucisynaptic influence of one neuron on the other. Overall, offset correlogram features provided evidence for 33 VRC-to-raphé-to-PRG and 45 PRG-to-raphé-to-VRC correlational linkage chains with one or two intermediate raphé neurons. The results support a respiratory network architecture with parallel VRC-to-PRG and PRG-to-VRC links operating through intervening midline circuits, and suggest that raphé neurons contribute to the respiratory modulation of PRG neurons and shape the respiratory motor pattern through coordinated divergent actions on both the PRG and VRC.
Black Hole Interior from Loop Quantum Gravity
Authors: Modesto Leonardo
Published: March 2009

We calculate modifications to the Schwarzschild solution by using a semiclassical
analysis of loop quantum black hole. We obtain a metric inside the event horizon that coincides
with the Schwarzschild solution near the horizon but that is substantially different at the Planck
scale. In particular, we obtain a bounce of the S2 sphere for a minimum value of the radius and
that it is possible to have another event horizon close to the r = 0 point.
The Controversial Clinicobiological Role of Breast Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Casarsa Claudia , Oriana Saro , Coradini Danila
Published: March 2009

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women mainly because of the propensity of primary breast tumors to metastasize. Growing experimental evidence suggests that cancer stem cells (CSCs) may contribute to tumor progression and metastasis spread. However, despite the tremendous clinical potential of such cells and their possible therapeutic management, the real nature of CSCs remains to be elucidated. Starting from what is currently known about normal mammary stem/progenitor cells, to better define the cell that originates a tumor or is responsible for metastatic spread, this review will discuss experimental evidence of breast cancer stem cells and speculate about the clinical importance and implications of their evaluation.
On the Nature of Soil Moisture in Land Surface Models
Authors: Koster Randal D. , Guo Zhichang , Yang Rongqian , Dirmeyer Paul A. , Mitchell Kenneth , Puma Michael J.
Published: March 2009

The soil moisture state simulated by a land surface model is a highly model-dependent quantity, meaning that the direct transfer of one model’s soil moisture into another can lead to a fundamental, and potentially detrimental, inconsistency. This is first illustrated with two recent examples, one from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) involving seasonal precipitation forecasting and another from the realm of ecological modeling. The issue is then further addressed through a quantitative analysis of soil moisture contents produced as part of a global offline simulation experiment in which a number of land surface models were driven with the same atmospheric forcing fields. These latter comparisons clearly demonstrate, on a global scale, the degree to which model-simulated soil moisture variables differ from each other and that these differences extend beyond those associated with model-specific layer thicknesses or soil texture. The offline comparisons also show, however, that once the climatological statistics of each model’s soil moisture variable are accounted for (here, through a simple scaling using the first two moments), the different land models tend to produce very similar information on temporal soil moisture variability in most parts of the world. This common information can perhaps be used as the basis for successful mappings between the soil moisture variables in different land models.
Insiders, Outsiders, and the Politics of Corporate Governance
Authors: Callaghan Helen
Published: March 2009

This article argues that differences in the dispersion of corporate ownership help to explain why party positions on corporate governance vary across countries and over time. It shows that British, French, and German political debates over takeover regulation since the 1950s differ significantly along several dimensions, including the pattern of left—right competition and the timing of debate, and that these differences correspond to differences in the structure of corporate ownership. To explain the observed correlation, the article presumes that parties cater to their core constituents and so provides reasons explaining why ownership structure shapes the preferences of upscale socioeconomic groups and working-class clienteles. These empirical and theoretical contributions inform the literatures on party competition, corporate governance, varieties of capitalism, and institutional change.
Studying the Equivalence of Computer-Delivered and Paper-Based Administrations of the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices Test
Authors: Arce-Ferrer Alvaro J. , Martínez Guzmán Elvira
Published: March 2009

This study investigates the effect of mode of administration of the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices test on distribution, accuracy, and meaning of raw scores. A random sample of high school students take counterbalanced paper-and-pencil and computer-based administrations of the test and answer a questionnaire surveying preferences for computer-delivered test administrations. Administration mode effect is studied with repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance, internal consistency reliability estimates, and confirmatory factor analysis approaches. Results show a lack of test mode effect on distribution, accuracy, and meaning of raw scores. Participants indicate their preferences for the computer-delivered administration of the test. The article discusses findings in light of previous studies of the Raven Standard Progressive Matrices test.
A Comparison of Unidimensional and Three-Dimensional Differential Item Functioning Analysis Using Two-Dimensional Data
Authors: Snow Teresa K. , Oshima T.C.
Published: March 2009

Oshima, Raju, and Flowers demonstrated the use of an item response theory—based technique for analyzing differential item function (DIF) and differential test function for dichotomously scored data that are intended to be multidimensional. Their study assumed that the number of intended-to-be measured dimensions was correctly identified. In practice, however, the number of dimensions may be misidentified. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate the effects of both underestimation and overestimation of the number of intended-to-be measured dimensions on the multidimensional DIF analysis using simulated two-dimensional data with known DIF items. Results show that overestimation of the number of y traits had a consequence of decreased power. Underestimation resulted in missing a certain type of nonuniform DIF, as well as confounding the impact with DIF. Recommendations are made on how to conduct a DIF investigation with a multidimensional within-item test.
Period Correction of the QTc of Moxifloxacin With Multiple Predose Baseline ECGs Is the Least Variable of 4 Methods Tested
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Silkey Mariabeth , Schumacher Marta , Wang Lei , Raval Hiral , Caulfield John P.
Published: March 2009

This study compares 4 baseline correction methods on the effect of moxifloxacin on the QT/QTc interval: (1) day −1 time‐matched baseline electrocardiograms (ECGs), (2) 3 triplicate predose ECGs, (3) 1 triplicate predose ECG, and (4) no baseline correction. Forty‐four healthy subjects receive a single dose of moxifloxacin (400 mg), placebo, and 2 doses of an investigational agent in a 4‐period crossover fashion. For all 4 methods, the largest mean difference from placebo in the moxifloxacin study‐specific QTc is 11.97 to 13.23 ms and occurs at 3 to 4 hours postdose; the lower 90% confidence interval is greater than 5 ms from 2 to 8 hours. The average standard error of the mean is 1.36 ms for 3 triplicate predose ECGs, 1.40 ms for 1 triplicate predose ECG, 1.60 ms for day −1 time‐matched baseline ECGs, and 1.65 ms for no baseline correction. Predose baseline methods (3 or 1 triplicate ECGs) are superior to the day −1 time‐matched baseline correction or without baseline correction.
Public Administration and/or Public Sociology
Authors: Mooney Nickel Patricia
Published: March 2009

Lately, disciplinary vocabulary seems to be outpacing disciplinary transformation. Disciplinary turns of phrase are intensified in public administration not only because it is literally a governing vocabulary but also because the discipline has never been an easily definable area of scholarship or practice. Although public administration research thus far has been focused on transformations within the discipline, my focus here is outward, toward sociology as a “contributing discipline.” I explore through the lens of the disciplinary convergence of public administration and public sociology the disciplinary dispersion of a public sentimentality that hopes to diverge with the world as it is.
Managing Stakeholder Demands
Authors: LeRoux Kelly
Published: March 2009

Nonprofit social service organizations face unique challenges in attending to the needs of their various stakeholders. This article uses data from a sample of nonprofit organizations in Michigan to examine how well nonprofits manage multiple stakeholder demands. Findings indicate that nonprofits generally balance organizational time and attention to the needs of both clients and funding agencies. However, a small percentage of nonprofits devote disproportionate time to funding agencies at the expense of client-related activities. Factors that increase this likelihood include financial dependence on for-profit corporations, a racial mismatch between the board and agency clientele, and board dominance by economic elites.
The Additive Value of Positive Psychological Capital in Predicting Work Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Avey James B. , Luthans Fred , Youssef Carolyn M.
Published: March 2009

Conventional wisdom and recent research have supported the importance of employee positivity. However, empirical analysis has not yet demonstrated potential added value of recently recognized psychological capital over the more established positive traits in predicting work attitudes and behaviors. This study found that psychological capital was positively related to extrarole organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) and negatively to organizational cynicism, intentions to quit, and counterproductive workplace behaviors. With one exception, psychological capital also predicted unique variance in these outcomes beyond demographics, self-evaluation, personality, and person—organization and person—job fit. The article concludes with implications for future research and practical application.
Phase space: geography, relational thinking, and beyond
Authors: Jones Martin
Published: March 2009

Recent years have witnessed a burgeoning of work on `thinking space relationally'. According to its advocates, relational thinking challenges human geography by insisting on an open-ended, mobile, networked, and actor-centred geographic becoming. The paper discusses the importance of this `relational turn' by positioning it within the lineage of philosophical approaches to space in geography. Following this, it highlights some silences and limits, namely factors that constrain, structure, and connect space. The paper then offers a moderate relationalism by discussing the notion of `phase space'. This acknowledges relationality but insists on the confined, sometimes inertial, and always context-specific nature of geography. Some challenges for this approach are discussed.
Geographies of brands and branding
Authors: Pike Andy
Published: March 2009

This paper seeks to elucidate the geographies of brands and branding through interpreting their geographical entanglements. Focusing upon goods and services, it argues, first, that the object of the brand and the process of branding are geographical because they are entangled in inescapable spatial associations. Second, these spatial associations matter because they are geographically differentiated and uneven. Third, geographically entangled brands and branding are closely related to spatially uneven development through the articulation and reinforcement of economic and social inequalities and unequal and competitive sociospatial relations and divisions of labour. Despite their apparent pervasiveness and significance for geographical inquiry, the geographical entanglements of brands and branding have been under-investigated in Geography and hardly recognized and poorly specified in other social science research. A critical account is provided that demonstrates the entangled geographies of brands and branding in their: (1) geographical origins, provenance and sociospatial histories; (2) spatial circuits of value and meaning and uneven development; and (3) territorial and relational spaces and places. Reading the changing forms, extent and nature of the geographical entanglements of brands and branding provides a novel but relatively overlooked window to consider and illustrate the vital spaces at the intersections of economic, social, cultural and political geographies, the tensions between relational and territorial notions of space and place and the politics and limits of brands and branding. Learning from wider social science, the paper demonstrates the importance of geography by projecting more clearly specified and sophisticated treatments of space and place into accounts of brands and branding.
Ecologies of business education and the geographies of knowledge
Authors: Hall Sarah
Published: March 2009

The identification in political and corporate circles of business education as a means of (re)producing highly skilled economic elites has been reflected by growing academic interest in the sector. However, this research predominately studies business education in isolation from other practices of learning. In response, I develop geographical perspectives on knowledge and learning to situate business education within broader landscapes of corporate knowledge circulation, production and learning. Positioning business education as a topic of geographical inquiry in this way is valuable since it fosters a more critical understanding of the role of business education within capitalist space economies.
Haptic geographies: ethnography, haptic knowledges and sensuous dispositions
Authors: Paterson Mark
Published: March 2009

This paper is the first overview of the treatment of haptic knowledges in geography, responding to bodily sensations and responses that arise through the embodied researcher. After Crang’s (2003) article on ‘touchy-feely’ methods identifies the dearth of actual touching and embodied feeling in research methods, this article does three things. First, it clarifies the terminology, which is derived from a number of disciplines. Second, it summarizes developments in sensuous ethnographies within cultural geography and anthropology. Third, it suggests pathways to new research on ‘sensuous dispositions’ and non-representational theory. We thereby see just how ‘touchy-feely’ qualitative methods have, or might, become.
Injury Patterns and Injury Rates in the Circus Arts
Authors: Shrier Ian , Meeuwisse Willem H. , Matheson Gordon O. , Wingfield Kristin , Steele Russell J. , Prince François , Hanley James , Montanaro Michael
Published: March 2009

Background

Human circus arts are gaining increasing popularity as a physical activity with more than 500 companies and 200 schools. The only injury data that currently exist are a few case reports and 1 survey.

Hypothesis

To describe injury patterns and injury rates among Cirque du Soleil artists between 2002 and 2006.

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods

The authors defined an injury as any work-related condition recorded in an electronic injury database that required a visit to the show therapist. Analyses for treatments, missed performances, and injury rates (per 1000 artist performances) were based on a subset of data that contained appropriate denominator (exposure) information (began in 2004).

Results

There were 1376 artists who sustained a total of the 18 336 show- or training-related injuries. The pattern of injuries was generally similar across sex and performance versus training. Most injuries were minor. Of the 6701 injuries with exposure data, 80% required ≤7 treatments and resulted in ≤1 completely missed performance. The overall show injury rate was 9.7 (95% confidence interval, 9.4–10.0; for context, published National Collegiate Athletic Association women’s gymnastics rate was 15.2 injuries per 1000 athlete-exposures). The rate for injuries resulting in more than 15 missed performances for acrobats (highest risk group) was 0.74 (95% confidence interval, 0.65–0.83), which is much lower than the corresponding estimated National Collegiate Athletic Association women’s gymnastics rate.

Conclusion

Most injuries in circus performers are minor, and rates of more serious injuries are lower than for many National Collegiate Athletic Association sports.
Arthroscopic Repair for Chronic Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Hantes Michael E. , Venouziou Aaron I. , Liantsis Athanasios K. , Dailiana Zoe H. , Malizos Konstantinos N.
Published: March 2009

Background

Although labrum lesions in patients with chronic anterior shoulder instability may not only involve detachment of the anteroinferior labrum but a lesion of the superior glenoid labrum as well, no studies have compared the clinical outcome between patients with a lesion of the anteroinferior labrum and patients with a combined lesion of the anterior and superior labrum after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization.

Hypothesis

Arthroscopic repair of a combined lesion of the anterior and superior labrum may have inferior clinical outcome to repair of an anterior lesion only in patients with anterior shoulder instability.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Sixty-three patients operated on for anterior shoulder instability between April 2002 and June 2006 were included in this study. Patients with bone deficiency were excluded. Fixation of the detached labrum was performed using suture anchors. Thirty-eight patients had a lesion of the anterior labrum (group A), and 25 had a combined lesion of the anterior and superior labrum (group B). Patients were evaluated after a 2-year minimum follow-up with Constant and Rowe scores. Failure was defined as a redislocation or a subluxation episode.

Results

Patients in group B experienced a significantly higher number of dislocations preoperatively ( P < .05). However, there was no difference between the 2 groups regarding the failure rate postoperatively. One patient from each group had a failed result. A mean loss of 5° and 8° of external rotation at 90° of abduction was noted in patients in groups A and B, respectively ( P = .113). The Constant score was 94 in group A and 93 in group B ( P = .435). The Rowe score was 91 in group A and 90 in group B ( P = .338).

Conclusion

There are no differences in shoulder stability and function in patients with anterior shoulder instability and a lesion of the anteroinferior labrum and patients with an extended lesion of the anterior and superior labrum after arthroscopic shoulder stabilization.
Knee Medial Compartment Contact Pressure Increases with Release of the Type I Anterior Intermeniscal Ligament
Authors: Paci James M. , Scuderi Matthew G. , Werner Frederick W. , Sutton Levi G. , Rosenbaum Paula F. , Cannizzaro John P.
Published: March 2009

Background

The anterior intermeniscal ligament of the knee is at risk during knee arthroscopy, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and tibial nail insertion.

Hypothesis

Release of the anterior intermeniscal ligament, in knees with type I ligaments, will result in altered contact pressures in the medial compartment.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Five fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees with intact type I anterior intermeniscal ligaments were chosen for testing in a modified MTS machine from 0° to 60° of flexion under 2 conditions: (1) intact and (2) after sharp sectioning of the anterior intermeniscal ligament. Measurements were made using inframeniscal contact pressure sensors covering the medial compartment. Poststudy analysis was done in 10° increments between 0° and 60° of flexion, looking at peak contact pressure and the amount of contact area seeing pressure.

Results

Sectioning of the anterior intermeniscal ligament caused a statistically significant increase in the peak pressure at 20°, 30°, 40°, and 50° of knee flexion. The largest change occurred at 40° of knee flexion, when the peak pressure increased by 27.5% (3.68 MPa to 4.69 MPa). Contact area decreased, although this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Release of the anterior intermeniscal ligament results in increased peak contact pressures in the medial compartment of the knee.

Clinical Relevance

Care should be taken to avoid sacrifice of this ligament during surgery.
Treatment of Recalcitrant Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome with Open Iliotibial Band Bursectomy
Authors: Hariri Sanaz , Savidge Edgar T. , Reinold Michael M. , Zachazewski James , Gill Thomas J.
Published: March 2009

Background

Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) is an overuse injury causing lateral knee pain. There is evidence that the pathological lesion is in fact an inflamed bursa underlying the iliotibial band (ITB) rather than an inflamed ITB itself.

Hypothesis

Resection of the bursa underlying the ITB in ITBFS patients will relieve their pain and allow them to return to their preinjury activity level.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

We describe the technique of ITB bursectomy and report a minimal 20-month follow-up of patients who had ITB bursectomies performed by a single surgeon. The patients completed a survey detailing their preoperative and postoperative symptoms and activities.

Results

The senior author performed 12 consecutive cases of ITB bursectomies (12 patients). One was excluded from the study (previous microfracture). The average age at surgery was 32 years (standard deviation, 5; range, 24-41). There were 7 men and 4 women. Postoperatively, patients were able to return to their preinjury Tegner activity levels, and the visual analog pain scores decreased by an average of 6 points (P < .001). Six patients were completely satisfied with the surgical outcome, 3 were mostly satisfied, 2 were somewhat satisfied, and none were dissatisfied. Nine of 11 patients said that knowing what they know now, they would have the surgery performed again for the same problem.

Conclusion

Iliotibial band bursectomy successfully reduces knee pain in patients with ITBFS and allows them to return to their preinjury level of activity. The great majority of patients were satisfied with the results of the procedure.
Outcomes of Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation in a Diverse Patient Population
Authors: McNickle Allison G. , L'Heureux Daniel R. , Yanke Adam B. , Cole Brian J.
Published: March 2009

Background

Autologous chondrocyte implantation is indicated as a second-line treatment of large, irregularly shaped chondral defects after failure of first-line surgical intervention. This study examines the clinical results of a patient cohort undergoing autologous chondrocyte implantation and elucidates factors associated with subjective improvement after implantation.

Hypothesis

Autologous chondrocyte implantation will result in long-term functional and symptomatic improvement.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

The cohort included 137 subjects (140 knees) who underwent autologous chondrocyte implantation of the knee. Mean defect size per patient was 5.2 ± 3.5 cm2 (range, 0.8-26.6 cm2). Patients averaged 30.3 ± 9.1 years of age (range, 13.9-49.9 years) and were followed for 4.3 ± 1.8 years (range, 2.0-9.7 years). Outcomes were assessed via clinical assessment and established outcome scales, including the Lysholm scale, International Knee Documentation Committee scale, and Short Form-12.

Results

A significant improvement after surgery was observed in all outcome assessments including the Lysholm (41 to 69; P < .001) and International Knee Documentation Committee (34 to 64; P < .001) scales. Subjectively, 75% of patients indicated they were completely or mostly satisfied with the outcome and 83% would have the procedure again. Preoperatively, 32% of patients had a Tegner score of 6 or greater, compared with 82% before injury and 65% at most recent follow-up. Multivariate analysis identified age (P < .021) and receiving workers’ compensation (P < .018) as independent predictors of follow-up Lysholm score. Twenty-one patients (16%) required debridement of the autologous chondrocyte implantation site secondary to persistent symptoms, whereas 9 knees (6.4%) clinically failed and underwent a revision procedure.

Conclusion

Autologous chondrocyte implantation is a viable treatment option for chondral defects of the knee, resulting in durable functional and symptomatic improvement. Age and workers’ compensation status are independent predictors of outcome.
The Global Turn
Authors: Burawoy Michael
Published: March 2009

For too long U.S. labor sociology has been reluctant to explore the world. By taking a global turn, we have much to learn from labor scholars and labor movements in the Global South—much to learn about our own peculiarities, about the possibilities and obstacles to building links across national boundaries, and about the implications of “globalization” for both labor organizing and labor studies. In particular, the public turn taken by scholars in the Global South toward their own labor movements holds lessons for a collaboration that is always fraught from both sides. These are just some of the issues raised by the essays in this issue that examine the history of labor sociologies and labor movements in Brazil, China, India, South Africa, and South Korea.
Self-Control, Prison Victimization, and Prison Infractions
Authors: Kerley Kent R. , Hochstetler Andy , Copes Heith
Published: March 2009

Gottfredson and Hirschi’s self-control theory has been the subject of much debate and empirical testing. Although the theory was developed originally as an explanation for criminal offending, researchers recently have examined whether low self-control may increase the risk of criminal victimization. This study assesses the effects of low self-control on victimization and offending among the incarcerated. We utilize structural equation models to test the impact of low self-control on prison victimization and prison infractions based on a study involving 208 recently paroled inmates from a Midwestern state. The results indicate that risk taking is a significant predictor of prison victimization and temper is a significant predictor of infractions. We conclude that self-control theory is a potential predictor of prison infractions and victimization and that personality traits seen as generally criminogenic in the free world may have particular situational ramifications in prison.
Extreme Outsourcing in Local Government
Authors: Bradbury Mark D. , Waechter G. David
Published: March 2009

The prevailing paradigm of outsourcing in local government assumes high-level professional administrators make systematic assessments of program areas to determine whether a selected number could be delivered for a reduced cost and at a higher quality by an external provider. This article examines two fundamental deviations from this model occurring in local governments. First, a handful of newly incorporated cities have adopted a wholesale approach to contracting out, relying almost exclusively on private firms and other governmental jurisdictions for the production of core programs while employing only a handful of in-house staff. Conversely, several small towns and cities across North Carolina deliver most services and programs in house by permanent staff but contract out the highest-level administrative position, that of town or city manager. These strategies represent outsourcing at its most extreme and present important practical and paradigmatic challenges to public human resource management in contemporary subnational governance.
The New Mental Health Parity Law
Authors: French P. Edward , Goodman Doug
Published: March 2009

On October 3, 2008, Congress passed the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Act (MHPAA) as part of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. The MHPAA does not require insurance providers to offer insurance coverage for mental illness and addictions, but if they are covered, there must be parity with other health coverage. This article summarizes the MHPAA and discusses the possible consequences to public sector employers. The authors also explore the possible court challenges to the MHPAA under the Eleventh Amendment.
Toward Self-Directed Learning, Post-High School Placement, and Coordinated Support Constructing New Transition Bridges to Adult Life
Authors: Rusch Frank R. , Hughes Carolyn , Agran Martin , Martin James E. , Johnson John R.
Published: March 2009

Students without disabilities traditionally either enter postsecondary education or seek employment after high school graduation. These outcomes are not routinely experienced by youth with disabilities, however. Instead, they often face an uncertain future—one that may include unemployment or underemployment, social isolation, or dependence, despite federal legislation designed to pave the way toward successful and fulfilling adult lives. To address these inequalities, the authors propose constructing new transition bridges, including (a) teaching students to become self-directed learners before they enter high school, (b) assisting students in identifying where they would like to continue their education or work and placing these students in these student-identified destinations before they exit high school, and (c) coordinating post-placement support services with either postsecondary educational institutions or local agencies that provide employment support.
Effect of a 24+ Hour Fast on Breast Milk Composition
Authors: Zimmerman Deena R. , Goldstein Lee , Lahat Eli , Braunstein Rony , Stahi Dvorah , Bar-Haim Adina , Berkovitch Matitiahu
Published: March 2009

In this preliminary prospective study, breast milk is sampled surrounding 4 religious fast days to determine the effect of a more than 24-hour fast on breast milk composition. The participants are 48 healthy women nursing healthy babies between 1 and 6 months of age. Samples are collected within 2 days before the fast (baseline), immediately after the fast, and 24 hours after fast completion. Samples are tested for sodium, calcium, phosphorus, triglycerides, total protein, and lactose. From baseline to immediately after fast, mean sodium, calcium, and protein levels increase ( P = .013, P < .0001, and P < .0001, respectively) and mean phosphorus and lactose levels decrease ( P < .0001 and P = .003, respectively). Mean triglycerides are unchanged. Twenty-four hours after fast, parameters are no longer significantly different from baseline except for elevated mean protein levels ( P = .022) and lactose that is still reduced ( P = .017). A fast of this nature is statistically associated with certain biochemical changes in breast milk. J Hum Lact. 25(2):194-198
Barriers to Best Outcomes in Breastfeeding for Māori: Mothers' Perceptions, Whānau Perceptions, and Services
Authors: Glover Marewa , Waldon John , Manaena-Biddle Harangi , Holdaway Maureen , Cunningham Chris
Published: March 2009

This research explores the perceptions of New Zealand Māori women and their whānau (customary Māori extended family) toward barriers to achieving best outcomes in infant feeding: exclusively breastfed infants at 6 months. Interviews are undertaken with 59 Māori women who have given birth in the previous 3 years and 27 whānau members. Although mothers and whānau members feel positively toward breastfeeding and generally expect to breastfeed exclusively, these expectations are unmet in many cases because of lack of support when establishing breastfeeding; lack of support when life circumstances change; lack of timely, culturally relevant, and comprehensible information; confusion about smoking while breastfeeding; uncertainty about the safety of bed-sharing, and perceived lack of acceptability of breastfeeding in public. The relatively high rates of tobacco use by Māori create a tension for breastfeeding mothers, cited by some as a reason for ending breastfeeding prematurely. J Hum Lact. 25(3):307-316.
Is Greater Self-Neglect Severity Associated With Lower Levels of Physical Function?
Authors: XinQi Dong  , Mendes de Leon Carlos F. , Evans Denis A.
Published: March 2009

Objective: This study examined the association between severity of self-neglect and physical function in a population of community-dwelling older adults. Method: Participants were older adults ( N = 1,094) reported to the Chicago Department on Aging for suspected self-neglect from 1993 to 2005, who also participated in the Chicago Health Aging Project. The primary outcome of physical function was assessed using physical performance tests. Secondary outcomes were assessed using the Katz, Nagi, and Rosow-Breslau scales. Multiple regression models were used to assess these associations. Results: After adjusting for confounders, higher self-neglect severity scores were associated with lower physical performance testing (coefficient = —.062, p = .001). Greater self-neglect severity was also correlated with the reported number of impairments on the Katz, Nagi, and Rosow-Breslau scales (coefficients = .024, .024, and .016, respectively, p = .001). Discussion: Higher self-neglect severity is associated with lower levels of physical function among older adults.
On the Classical Meaning of Philanthrôpía
Authors: Sulek Marty
Published: March 2009

The academic study of philanthropy presupposes a comprehensive definition that guides inquiry into what, exactly, philanthropy is and why it matters. At present, though, no such well-thought-out definition exists. Scholars tend to explore various facets of philanthropy, according to their particular academic interests, but without a comprehensive understanding of its full meaning. This article attempts to correct this lack of synoptic understanding by surveying prominent instances of usage and definitions of philanthrôpía in the classical Greek era and synthesizing them into a overall framework for understanding its full classical meaning. In so doing, philanthrôpía is revealed to be a signal word, the meaning of which significantly evolved to reflect historically dominant philosophical and cultural trends in classical Greek society. This article concludes the exploration of this subject begun in an article published in the previous issue of NVSQ, titled “On the Modern Meaning of Philanthropy.”
Trends in Hospital Ownership Type and Capacity
Authors: David Guy
Published: March 2009

This article provides evidence of the growing similarity in capacity of for-profit and nonprofit hospitals in the United States. Between 1960 and 2000, the typical nonprofit hospital shrank from being 3 times as large as the average for-profit hospital to being merely one-third larger. Analysis of aggregate hospital data implies that the convergence in capacity is replicated by the growing similarity between nonprofit and for-profit hospitals in the number of admissions and average lengths of stay. An analysis of hospital-level data reveals that the convergence was driven primarily by entry, exit, and ownership switches, rather than expansions or downsizing of existing hospitals. Further research is needed to uncover the driving forces that led to this growing similarity between nonprofit and for-profit hospitals.
The Influence of Family and Culture on Physical Activity Among Female Adolescents From the Indian Diaspora
Authors: Ramanathan Subha , Crocker Peter R. E.
Published: March 2009

In this study we explored the role of personal, familial, and cultural attitudes and social norms for physical activity (PA) on actual PA behavior among female adolescents of the Indian diaspora. Six girls, 15 to 19 years of age, from a spiritual center participated in interviews and a focus group. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Participants were high in familism, and felt that PA was important for physical and mental health, and to strengthen relationships with family. Fathers and brothers were considered most influential on PA patterns. Differentiated gender roles in PA emerged: boys were deemed more aggressive and competitive, and girls were perceived to promote fun-based learning environments. The importance of religion and spirituality as influences on PA emerged among participants with strong affinities for Indian cultures. Results show that cultural heritage impacts PA norms, attitudes, and patterns, and must be considered when evaluating adolescent PA participation in multicultural societies.
The CUIDAR Early Intervention Parent Training Program for Preschoolers at Risk for Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Lakes Kimberley D. , Kettler Ryan J. , Schmidt Janeth , Haynes Marche , Feeney-Kettler Kelly , Kamptner Laura , Swanson Jim , Tamm Leanne
Published: March 2009

Researchers report mental health disparities that indicate that children and families with the highest need for services often are less likely to use them. Only a few investigators have focused on service delivery models to address underuse of services. This study examines the Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC)/University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) Initiative for the Development of Attention and Readiness (CUIDAR) model of service delivery in reducing disparities in access to and use of services and in decreasing child behavior problems in a community-based study with 169 self-referred, low-income, and predominantly minority families. The findings indicate that among minority families, CUIDAR is both more accessible and more equitably used than local, publicly funded mental health services. Among Latinos, attendance rates are higher when services are provided in Spanish. Parents report significant improvements in overall child difficulty and conduct problems. In addition, parents report high levels of satisfaction with the program.
Multiple Imputation of Missing Data in Cross-Cultural Samples
Authors: Dow Malcolm M. , Eff E. Anthon
Published: March 2009

Listwise deletion of cases with missing data prior to statistical analysis, the approach overwhelmingly used by cross-cultural survey researchers, requires the assumption that the missing data are missing completely at random. This assumption is not often likely to hold for cross-cultural sample data, and when it fails statistical analysis based only on complete-case subsamples introduces the possibility of biased estimates and standard errors. Over the past 20 or so years statisticians have made major advances in specifying the conditions under which missing data can be ignored when making inferences based on incomplete data. We review these conditions since they have a direct bearing on when the usual approaches to dealing with missing cross-cultural survey data are invalid.
Culinary tourism: Satisfaction with a culinary event utilizing importance-performance grid analysis
Authors: Smith Sylvia , Costello Carol
Published: March 2009

The aim of this research was to provide a practical method for assessing satisfaction at a culinary event. Twenty-seven culinary event attributes items were analyzed from an international culinary event. MANOVA was employed to identify differences between importance and performance measures. Importance-performance analysis (IPA) was subsequently used to assist culinary event organizers while identifying critical performance attributes in order to improve customer satisfaction. Findings revealed food and beverage prices, come/ go, convenient parking, and food tasting had high importance scores, yet low performance measures. The use of multiple regression analysis confirmed three out of the four attribute items had a predictive effect on overall satisfaction.
Purchasing vacation packages through shop-at-home television programs: An analysis of consumers' consumption motives
Authors: Walsh Gianfranco , Gwinner Kevin P.
Published: March 2009

In most developed countries non-store retailing, especially shop-at-home television, has grown in importance and today's consumers have access to a wider and more diverse range of in-home shopping media than ever before. Not surprisingly non-store shopping behavior has increasingly been recognized as an important field of investigation. While previous research focused on shopper demographics and low-involvement products, relatively little is known about why consumers purchase products through shop-at-home television and a knowledge gap exists in understanding shop-at-home consumer behavior toward complex, high-involvement services such as vacation travel. Adopting a choice motivation typology as a framework, the present study investigates the booking motives of shop-at-home travel television program viewers using a sample of 978 consumers. Based on exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, four motive factors for the willingness to purchase vacation packages via shop-at-home travel television programs were found, and subsequent cluster analyses identified four significant and distinct buyer groups. Implications for travel-marketing practice and research are discussed.
Perceived change in life satisfaction following epilepsy diagnosis
Authors: Naess Siri , Eriksen John , Tambs Kristian
Published: March 2009

Aims: To study the development in perceived life satisfaction of people with epilepsy. Methods: In 2005, members of the Norwegian Epilepsy Association responded to a version of the Self-Anchoring Striving Scale (termed Cantril’s Ladder). In this article, we compare the answers given to two questions, one related to the person’s life satisfaction today, and the other related to the person’s life satisfaction 5 years ago. The same people were asked about time since epilepsy onset. Those who reported being diagnosed during the previous 5 years were compared with those who had been diagnosed earlier, with regard to reported life satisfaction, at the present and 5 years ago. The hypothesis to be tested was that people who have been diagnosed with epilepsy report their life satisfaction as being reduced in comparison to their life satisfaction before the diagnosis. Results: The hypothesis was confirmed. The respondents in our study who had been diagnosed less than 5 years ago perceived their life satisfaction to be reduced by almost a standard deviation as compared to their life satisfaction before the diagnosis. Conclusions: People diagnosed with epilepsy perceive their life satisfaction to be reduced as a consequence of the diagnosis, and should be supported in their coping with the disease. This conclusion should be drawn with caution, owing to a low response rate and difficulties related to retrospective self-reports. Prospective population-based studies are needed to explore the causal pathways.
Direct observation and completion of treatment of tuberculosis in rural areas of China
Authors: Jianming Wang  , Hongbing Shen
Published: March 2009

Aims: To analyse the current status of directly observed therapy (DOT) and completion of treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in two rural areas of China. Methods: Two rural counties with low DOT rates were deliberately selected as study sites. Face-to-face interviews were conducted by trained investigators with a structured questionnaire to investigate the characteristics of patients and the TB service that they had received. The associations between treatment completion and potential factors were estimated by computing odds ratios (ORs), as well as their 95% confidence intervals (CIs), from an unconditional logistic regression model. Results: Among 601 patients, 2.2% were treated with direct observation by health workers, 6.2% were supervised by family members, and 91.7% were treated with self-administered therapy. The treatment completion rate was found to be significantly associated with sputum smear test and adverse reaction to anti-tuberculosis drugs, but not with direct observation by health workers (OR 1.81, 95% CI 0.23—14.38) or by family members (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.38—3.41). Frequent home visiting by health workers (!1 visit/month) could help to increase the completion rate (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.30—7.63). Conclusions: No significant difference was found in the rate of completion of TB treatment between direct observation and self-supervision groups in two rural areas with lower DOT coverage. How to build a feasible DOT strategy that is accepted by both patients and healthcare providers needs to be considered by policy-makers. Other elements apart from DOT are necessary to ensure a successful TB programme.