bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of Cardiac Monitoring in Fetuses at Risk for Congenital Heart Block
Authors: Friedman Deborah M. , Kim Mimi Y. , Copel Joshua A. , Davis Claudine , Phoon Colin K.L. , Glickstein Julie S. , Buyon Jill P.
Published: January 2008

Background—

Anti-SSA/Ro–associated third-degree congenital heart block is irreversible, prompting a search for early markers and effective therapy.

Methods and Results—

One hundred twenty-seven pregnant women with anti-SSA/Ro antibodies were enrolled; 95 completed an evaluable course in 98 pregnancies. The protocol included fetal echocardiograms performed weekly from 16 to 26 weeks’ gestation and biweekly from 26 to 34 weeks. PR intervals >150 ms were considered prolonged, consistent with first-degree block. Ninety-two fetuses had normal PR intervals. Neonatal lupus developed in 10 cases; 4 were neonatal lupus rash only. Three fetuses had third-degree block; none had a preceding abnormal PR interval, although in 2 fetuses >1 week elapsed between echocardiographic evaluations. Tricuspid regurgitation preceded third-degree block in 1 fetus, and an atrial echodensity preceded block in a second. Two fetuses had PR intervals >150 ms. Both were detected at or before 22 weeks, and each reversed within 1 week with 4 mg dexamethasone. The ECG of 1 additional newborn revealed a prolonged PR interval persistent at 3 years despite normal intervals throughout gestation. No first-degree block developed after a normal ECG at birth. Heart block occurred in 3 of 16 pregnancies (19%) in mothers with a previous child with congenital heart block and in 3 of 74 pregnancies (4%) in mothers without a previous child with congenital heart block or rash (
P
=0.067).

Conclusions—

Prolongation of the PR interval was uncommon and did not precede more advanced block. There was a trend toward more congenital heart block in fetuses of women with previously affected offspring than those without previously affected offspring. Advanced block and cardiomyopathy can occur within 1 week of a normal echocardiogram without initial first-degree block. Echodensities and moderate/severe tricuspid regurgitation merit attention as early signs of injury.
Acute Administration of Fish Oil Inhibits Triggered Activity in Isolated Myocytes From Rabbits and Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Den Ruijter Hester M. , Berecki Géza , Verkerk Arie O. , Bakker Diane , Baartscheer Antonius , Schumacher Cees A. , Belterman Charly N.W. , de Jonge Nicolaas , Fiolet Jan W.T. , Brouwer Ingeborg A. , Coronel Ruben
Published: January 2008

Background—

Fish oil reduces sudden death in patients with prior myocardial infarction. Sudden death in heart failure may be due to triggered activity based on disturbed calcium handling. We hypothesized that superfusion with ω3-polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3-PUFAs) from fish inhibits triggered activity in heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Ventricular myocytes were isolated from explanted hearts of rabbits with volume- and pressure-overload–induced heart failure and of patients with end-stage heart failure. Membrane potentials (patch-clamp technique) and intracellular calcium (indo-1 fluorescence) were recorded after 5 minutes of superfusion with Tyrode’s solution (control), ω-9 monounsaturated fatty acid oleic acid (20 μmol/L), or ω3-PUFAs (docosahexaenoic acid or eicosapentaenoic acid 20 μmol/L). ω3-PUFAs shortened the action potential at low stimulation frequencies and caused an ≈25% decrease in diastolic and systolic calcium (all
P
<0.05). Subsequently, noradrenalin and rapid pacing were used to evoke triggered activity, delayed afterdepolarizations, and calcium aftertransients. ω3-PUFAs abolished triggered activity and reduced the number of delayed afterdepolarizations and calcium aftertransients compared with control and oleic acid. ω3-PUFAs reduced action potential shortening and intracellular calcium elevation in response to noradrenalin. Results from human myocytes were in accordance with the findings obtained in rabbit myocytes.

Conclusion—

Superfusion with ω3-PUFAs from fish inhibits triggered arrhythmias in myocytes from rabbits and patients with heart failure by lowering intracellular calcium and reducing the response to noradrenalin.
Egg Consumption and Risk of Heart Failure in the Physicians’ Health Study
Authors: Djoussé Luc , Gaziano J. Michael
Published: January 2008

Background—

Reduction in dietary cholesterol is widely recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Although eggs are important sources of dietary cholesterol and other nutrients, little is known about the association between egg consumption and heart failure (HF) risk.

Methods and Results—

In a prospective cohort study of 21 275 participants from the Physicians’ Health Study I, we examined the association between egg consumption and the risk of HF. Egg consumption was assessed with the use of a simple abbreviated food questionnaire, and we used Cox regression to estimate relative risks of HF. After an average follow-up of 20.4 years, a total of 1084 new HF cases occurred in this cohort. Although egg consumption up to 6 times per week was not associated with incident HF, egg consumption of ≥7 per week was associated with an increased risk of HF. Compared with subjects who reported egg consumption of <1 per week, hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for HF were 1.28 (1.02 to 1.61) and 1.64 (1.08 to 2.49) for egg consumption of 1 per day and ≥2 per day, respectively, after adjustment for age, body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, and history of atrial fibrillation, hypertension, valvular heart disease, and hypercholesterolemia. Similar results were obtained for HF without antecedent myocardial infarction.

Conclusions—

Our data suggest that infrequent egg consumption is not associated with the risk of HF. However, egg consumption of ≥1 per day is related to an increased risk of HF among US male physicians.
Increased Arterial Stiffness in Normoglycemic Normotensive Offspring of Type 2 Diabetic Parents
Authors: Giannattasio Cristina , Failla Monica , Capra Anna , Scanziani Elisabetta , Amigoni Maria , Boffi Lucia , Whistock Christine , Gamba Pierluigi , Paleari Felice , Mancia Giuseppe
Published: January 2008

Diabetes is associated with a reduction of arterial distensibility. Limited information exists regarding whether or how early this appears in the course of the disease. We studied 54 normoglycemic, normotensive, healthy offspring of 2 parents with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 55 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects. Carotid diastolic diameter and systodiastolic change were measured by echo tracking (Wall Track System) and wall thickness by echocolor Doppler (Sonos 5500, Philips). Pulse pressure was measured by a semiautomatic device positioned on the brachial artery and arterial distensibility calculated by Reneman formula. Blood pressure, blood glucose, glycohemoglobin, and insulin sensitivity (homeostasis model assessment index) were normal or only slightly elevated and by and large similar in the 2 groups. Compared with control subjects, offspring of diabetic parents showed similar carotid diameters at diastole and a reduced increase in carotid diameter at systole (−16%), a reduced carotid artery distensibility (−30%), and an increased pulse pressure (+21.8%), all differences being statistically significant (
P
<0.05) and persisting in subgroups with elevated or normal body mass index values (<25 and ≥25 kg/m
2
). Carotid artery wall thickness was not different between the 2 groups. Thus, subjects with predisposition to diabetes show carotid artery stiffening even in the absence of blood pressure alterations, as well as substantial alterations of glucose metabolism, body mass index, and changes in carotid wall thickness. This suggests that, in diabetes, alterations in arterial mechanical properties represent an early phenomenon, which may occur in the absence of metabolic and blood pressure alterations.
Benefit of Low-Fat Over Low-Carbohydrate Diet on Endothelial Health in Obesity
Authors: Phillips Shane A. , Jurva Jason W. , Syed Amjad Q. , Syed Amina Q. , Kulinski Jacquelyn P. , Pleuss Joan , Hoffmann Raymond G. , Gutterman David D.
Published: January 2008

Obesity is associated with impaired endothelial-dependent flow-mediated dilation, a precursor to hypertension and atherosclerosis. Although dieting generally improves cardiovascular risk factors, the direct effect of different dietary strategies on vascular endothelial function is not known. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that a low-fat (LF) diet improves endothelial function compared with an isocaloric low-carbohydrate (LC) diet. Obese (n=20; body mass index: 29 to 39; mean systolic blood pressure: 107 to 125 mm Hg) and otherwise healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to either the American Heart Association modeled LF (30% fat calories) diet or an isocaloric LC Atkins’ style diet (20 g of carbohydrates) for 6 weeks (4-week weight loss and 2-week maintenance phase). Brachial flow-mediated dilation and dilation to nitroglycerin were measured with ultrasound using automated edge detection technology (baseline, week 2, and week 6). Blood pressure, weight loss, and cholesterol profiles were measured throughout the study. Weight loss was similar in LF (100±4 to 96.1±4 kg;
P
<0.001) and LC (95.4±4 to 89.7±4 kg;
P
<0.001) diets. Blood pressure decreased similarly in both groups (LF: 8/5 mm Hg; LC: 12/6 mm Hg) at 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, the percentage of flow-mediated dilation improved (1.9±0.8;
P
<0.05) in the LF diet but was reduced in the LC diet (−1.4±0.6;
P
<0.05) versus baseline. Dilation to nitroglycerin and lipid panels was similar at 0, 2, and 6 weeks. Despite similar degrees of weight loss and changes blood pressure, LF diets improved brachial artery flow-mediated dilation over LC diets. LF diets may confer greater cardiovascular protection than LC diets.
Trophoblasts Reduce the Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proatherogenic Response
Authors: Hering Lydia , Herse Florian , Verlohren Stefan , Park Joon-Keun , Wellner Maren , Qadri Fatimunnisa , Pijnenborg Robert , Staff Anne C. , Huppertz Berthold , Muller Dominik N. , Luft Friedrich C. , Dechend Ralf
Published: January 2008

Maternal spiral artery remodeling is the consequence of controlled trophoblast invasive interaction with the maternal cellular environment and is fundamentally important for successful placentation. In preeclampsia, trophoblast invasion is shallow, remodeling is incomplete, and vessels develop an inflammatory appearance, termed “acute atherosis.” We noted that, in our preeclampsia, human renin-human angiotensinogen transgenic rat model, complement component 3 (C3), and tumor necrosis factor-α were upregulated and heavily expressed in atherotic uteroplacental vessels. We next used coculture involving human trophoblasts, rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and human VSMCs to observe VSMC-trophoblast regulatory interactions. Tumor necrosis factor-α induced complement C3 and interleukin-6 expression in VSMCs. We found that trophoblasts were able to reduce VSMC C3 and interleukin-6 expression after the VSMCs were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α. However, a direct VSMC-trophoblast cell-cell contact was necessary for this anti-inflammatory response. We also studied double-transgenic VSMCs that express inflammatory components and exhibit accelerated proliferation (“synthetic” phenotype). Trophoblasts could not downregulate C3 in these cells. We then examined uteroplacental tissues from preeclamptic and control patients. In control deciduas, only traces of C3 staining were observed, and vessels were thin walled without thrombus formation. In preeclampsia, the decidual vessels showed atherosis, thrombus formation, and C3 expression. Our data suggest that fetally derived trophoblasts require direct cell-cell contact with maternally derived VSMCs to downregulate VSMC C3 and interleukin-6 expression and to avoid atherosis. The findings also implicate C3 in the placental vasculopathy observed in preeclampsia.
Renal Redox-Sensitive Signaling, but Not Blood Pressure, Is Attenuated by Nox1 Knockout in Angiotensin II–Dependent Chronic Hypertension
Authors: Yogi Alvaro , Mercure Chantal , Touyz Joshuah , Callera Glaucia E. , Montezano Augusto C.I. , Aranha Anna B. , Tostes Rita C. , Reudelhuber Timothy , Touyz Rhian M.
Published: January 2008

We demonstrated previously that, in mice with chronic angiotensin II–dependent hypertension, gp91phox-containing NADPH oxidase is not involved in the development of high blood pressure, despite being important in redox signaling. Here we sought to determine whether a gp91phox homologue, Nox1, may be important in blood pressure elevation and activation of redox-sensitive pathways in a model in which the renin-angiotensin system is chronically upregulated. Nox1-deficient mice and transgenic mice expressing human renin (TTRhRen) were crossed, and 4 genotypes were generated: control, TTRhRen, Nox1-deficient, and TTRhRen Nox1-deficient. Blood pressure and oxidative stress (systemic and renal) were increased in TTRhRen mice (P<0.05). This was associated with increased NADPH oxidase activation. Nox1 deficiency had no effect on the development of hypertension in TTRhRen mice. Phosphorylation of c-Src, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and focal adhesion kinase was significantly increased 2- to 3-fold in kidneys from TTRhRen mice. Activation of c-Src, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and focal adhesion kinase but not of extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 or extracellular signal regulated kinase 5, was reduced in TTRhRen/Nox1-deficient mice (P<0.05). Expression of procollagen III was increased in TTRhRen and TTRhRen/Nox1-deficient mice versus control mice, whereas vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 was only increased in TTRhRen mice. Our findings demonstrate that, in Nox1-deficient TTRhRen mice, blood pressure is elevated despite reduced NADPH oxidase activation, decreased oxidative stress, and attenuated redox signaling. Our results suggest that Nox1-containing NADPH oxidase plays a key role in the modulation of systemic and renal oxidative stress and redox-dependent signaling but not in the elevation of blood pressure in a model of chronic angiotensin II–dependent hypertension.
IRT-LR-DIF With Estimation of the Focal-Group Density as an Empirical Histogram
Authors: Woods Carol M.
Published: January 2008

Item response theory–likelihood ratio–differential item functioning (IRT-LR-DIF) is used to evaluate the degree to which items on a test or questionnaire have different measurement properties for one group of people versus another, irrespective of group-mean differences on the construct. Usually, the latent distribution is presumed normal for both groups, but previous research shows that results are biased if the true distribution is not approximately normal. This article introduces a variation of IRT-LR-DIF, called empirical histogram–differential item functioning (EH-DIF), in which the focal-group latent density is estimated simultaneously with the item parameters as an empirical histogram (EH). A simulation study shows that if the focal-group density is nonnormal, Type I error rates and focal-group estimates of the item parameters, mean, and SD are more accurate using EH-DIF than standard IRT-LR-DIF methods that presume normality. A pseudoempirical example is analyzed to illustrate EH-DIF.
Strategic Destination Planning: Analyzing the Future of Tourism
Authors: Formica Sandro , Kothari Tanvi H.
Published: January 2008

Events and trends affecting the tourism industry are becoming more complex and fast-paced. In response to these radical changes in the external environment, destination managers are striving for new approaches to predict future forces driving change. With this goal in mind, the current study was conducted to determine future forces that are likely to affect the future of tourism in the tristate area of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware from 2006 to 2010. The data for the study were gathered using the nominal group technique for scenario thinking, with informants from a variety of tourism businesses in the region. The findings of the study confirm that the tourism industry will be facing major challenges and experiencing swift changes. The global economy, changing market demographics, and emerging technology are forcing destination managers to adopt and implement proactive strategies to survive the competitive tourism environment.
Factors Affecting Convention Participation Decision-Making: Developing a Measurement Scale
Authors: Yoo Joanne Jung-Eun , Chon Kaye
Published: January 2008

The study developed a measurement scale to examine factors affecting convention participation decision-making. The scale development process started with a review of extant literature and personal interviews, followed by data collection through a Web survey of selected association members. Data were subjected to exploratory factor analysis and unidimensionality tests via subsequent confirmatory factor analysis. These procedures yielded a five-factor measurement scale with acceptable levels of reliability and validity. Five underlying dimensions of convention participation decision-making were labeled: (a) destination stimuli, (b) professional and social networking opportunities, (c) educational opportunities, (d) safety and health situation, and (e) travelability. The implications of the scale are discussed for future research as well as convention marketing strategy.
Gender Similarities and Differences in the Treatment, Relapse, and Recovery Cycle
Authors: Grella Christine E. , Scott Christy K. , Foss Mark A. , Dennis Michael L.
Published: January 2008

This study explores the influence of gender on changes in recovery status among participants in a longitudinal study. The study sample ( N = 1,202; 60% female) is recruited on referral to treatment, and annual interviews are conducted from Years 2 to 6 following intake. At each annual observation, participants are classified into one of four statuses (recovery, treatment, incarcerated, and using), and the transitional probabilities and correlates of transitioning from one status to another are estimated. About 80% of the participants changed status at least once over the follow-up period. Women are one third less likely to transition from recovery to using; the predictors of transitioning to different statuses vary by gender. The implications of gender as a moderator of the recovery process are discussed.
The Interaction of Co-Occurring Mental Disorders and Recovery Management Checkups on Substance Abuse Treatment Participation and Recovery
Authors: Rush Brian R. , Dennis Michael L. , Scott Christy K. , Castel Saulo , Funk Rodney R.
Published: January 2008

This article examines the effectiveness of quarterly Recovery Management Checkups (RMCs) for people with substance disorders by level of co-occurring mental disorders (34% none, 27% internalizing disorders, and 39% internalizing and externalizing) across two randomized experiments with 92% to 97% follow-up. The 865 participants are 82% African American, 53% female, and age 37 on average. RMC involves identification of those in need of treatment, motivational interviews, and treatment linkage assistance. It is effective in linking participants in need to treatment, with equal or better outcomes among those with more mental disorders. The data support the utility of monitoring and re-intervention for clients with co-occurring disorders.
Measuring Physical Activity in Older Adults
Authors: Resnick Barbara , King Abby , Riebe Deborah , Ory Marcia
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to use data from three Behavior Change Consortium intervention studies to consider the practicality of use of two surveys of physical activity (PA) relevant for older adults, provide support for the validity of these surveys, and provide guidance to researchers for decisions on use of one survey as opposed to the other. The samples included 218 participants in the Community Health Advice by Telephone Study, 150 participants in the Study of Exercise and Nutrition in Older Rhode Islanders, and 150 participants from the Testing the Effectiveness of the Exercise Plus Program. PA surveys included the Yale PA Survey and the Community Health Activities Model Program for Seniors PA Questionnaire. Older adults were able to complete either survey, although for frailer participants, an interview format is recommended. The Community Health Activities Model Program for Seniors PA Questionnaire was more likely to elicit information about moderate-intensity physical activities and was more likely to be related to vitality. Conversely, the Yale PA Survey may more comprehensively describe overall PA and provide information about moderate-intensity physical activity.
Thermo Elastic Analysis of a Type 3 Cryogenic Tank Considering Curing Temperature and Autofrettage Pressure
Authors: Kang Sang-Guk , Kim Myung-Gon , Kim Chun-Gon , Lee Jung-Ryul , Kong Cheol-Won
Published: January 2008

In this study, effects of curing temperature and autofrettage pressure on a Type 3 cryogenic propellant tank, which is composed of composite hoop/helical layers and a metal liner, were investigated by thermo elastic analysis using finite element method. The temperature field of a Type 3 tank was obtained by solving the heat transfer problem and, in turn, was used as the nodal temperature boundary conditions during the elastic analyses for curing temperature and autofrettage pressure effects. Progressive failure analysis was also introduced in this procedure. As a result, it was shown that the higher the curing temperature was, the more residual compressive stress and tensile stress were induced in composites and metal liner, respectively. On the contrary, autofrettage pressure brought the reduction of these residual thermal stresses caused by cryogenic environments to the tank structure and these trends were verified from the composite/aluminum ring specimen tests at cryogenic temperature, which is suitable for preliminary tests of filament wound structures. This tradeoff for curing temperature and autoprettage pressure must be considered in the design and manufacturing stages for a Type 3 cryogenic tank.
Silane Coupling Agents in Polymer-based Reinforced Composites: A Review
Authors: Shokoohi Shirin , Arefazar Ahmad , Khosrokhavar Ramin
Published: January 2008

Fibril or particulate fillers used to reinforce polymeric composites are often inorganic, so, as two dissimilar materials cannot compatibilize with each other, the problem of adherence always exists. To solve this problem a third material can help as a coupling agent. A coupling agent should have the ability to adhere to both surfaces by means of different functional groups. Silane coupling agents are frequently used because of several outstanding aspects they have. This review is a survey on these coupling agents used in composites.
EthyleneVinyl Acetate/Natural Rubber/ Organoclay Nanocomposites: Effect of Sulfur and Peroxide Vulcanization
Authors: Munusamy Y. , Ismail H. , Mariatti M. , Ratnam C.T.
Published: January 2008

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)/natural rubber (SMR L)/organoclay thermoplastic elastomer nanocomposites were melt compounded in an internal mixer, Haake Rheometer, at 120°C at a rotor speed of 50 rpm. The thermoplastic elastomer nanocomposites were dynamically vulcanized using sulfur and peroxide systems. In this article we demonstrate the effect of different vulcanizing systems on the processing properties, tensile properties, crosslink density, morphology, thermal degradation and swelling behavior of the EVA/SMR L/organoclay nanocomposites vulcanizates. The peroxide system showed better enhancement in tensile properties and resistance towards swelling compared to the sulfur system. However, the thermal stability of sulfur vulcanizates was better than that for peroxide vulcanizates. Results also indicate that the presence of organoclay increases the crosslink density in sulfur vulcanizates, whereas in peroxide system, crosslink density was not influenced by the organoclay loading. The optimum organoclay loading for both vulcanizing systems were achieved at 2phr loading. Results from scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies showed that at 2 phr organoclay loading, nanostructures of individual silicate layers were achieved, whereas, at 8 phr organoclay loading, agglomeration was observed.
Inequality in the Creative City: Is There Still a Place for “Old-Fashioned” Institutions?
Authors: Donegan Mary , Lowe Nichola
Published: January 2008

Creative class theory, now a mainstay of local economic development policy, has a dark side: Cities that have a larger creative talent pool are also likely to have greater income inequality. Richard Florida, in acknowledging this disturbing trend, has assigned a new role to the creative class—helping low-wage service sector employees harness and express their creative energy and talent. In this article, the authors explore the complex relationship between creative workers and earnings inequality in the context of the broader urban economy. Drawing on this analysis and an expansive body of literature on urban income inequality, the authors propose an alternative set of policy actions aimed at mediating creativity and inequality through a deepening of traditional labor market institutions and legislative supports. In contrast to claims that these are obsolete solutions in the new economy, the authors argue they are necessary for the long-term sustainability of the creative economy.
Intermediate Steel-Industry Suppliers in the Pittsburgh Region: A Cluster-Based Analysis of Regional Economic Resilience
Authors: Treado Carey Durkin , Giarratani Frank
Published: January 2008

The experience of intermediate steel-industry suppliers in the Pittsburgh region offers valuable insight into how traditional industrial clusters can serve as a source of economic resilience in regions like Pittsburgh, where a “signature” industry contracts or relocates. The authors find that intermediate steel-industry suppliers in Pittsburgh remain an important part of the region's economic base, serving as a significant source of export income from national and international markets. Survey results offer a description of the cluster's characteristics. An important subset of firms in this cluster relies on key contacts in the region such as suppliers, partners, and business networks for collaboration on product development or marketing. By recognizing and supporting local linkages of these kinds, policy initiatives can help to strengthen such clusters and contribute to a region's economic resilience.
The Fox and the Hedgehog Go to Work
Authors: Sewell Graham
Published: January 2008

The author argues that an ironic approach to collusion can help shift the focus of resistance away from the relatively rare events surrounding implacable opposition or total unanimity to the quotidian aspects of workplace politics. Collusion is characterized as an outcome of organizational politics conducted between the traditionally opposed parties of radical industrial sociology (i.e., managers and workers) under the guidance of an ironic mode of cognition. Irony is depicted as a foxlike way of gaining “a perspective on perspectives,” which provides a means of understanding stalemate, accommodation, and collusion by showing how opposing ideological positions are indebted. It also illuminates the moments when collusion breaks down and resisting parties become implacably opposed hedgehogs (one position prevails over the other), leading to overt conflict and resistance.
Transitions of Care: Optimal Communication Between Hospital and Hospice
Authors: Supiano Katherine P. , Gregory Jennifer
Published: January 2008

In this article, the key elements of a successful transition of terminally ill patients from the inpatient hospital to home hospice care setting are described. This article describes the role and responsibilities inpatient palliative care teams and receiving hospice agencies have for communicating with patients and families and preparing them for hospice care. This article explains one approach to educating the varied members of the health care team and describes how to collaborate on care plans to facilitate an effective and satisfying transfer of care.
Vestibular Stimulation for ADHD
Authors: Clark David L. , Arnold L. Eugene , Crowl Lindsay , Bozzolo Hernan , Peruggia Mario , Ramadan Yaser , Bornstein Robert , Hollway Jill A. , Thompson Susan , Malone Krista , Hall Kristy L. , Shelton Sara B. , Bozzolo Dawn R. , Cook Amy
Published: January 2008

Objective: This research evaluates effects of vestibular stimulation by Comprehensive Motion Apparatus (CMA) in ADHD. Method: Children ages 6 to 12 (48 boys, 5 girls) with ADHD were randomized to thrice-weekly 30-min treatments for 12 weeks with CMA, stimulating otoliths and semicircular canals, or a single-blind control of equal duration and intensity, each treatment followed by a 20-min typing tutorial. Results: In intent-to-treat analysis ( n = 50), primary outcome improved significantly in both groups ( p = .0001, d = 1.09 to 1.30), but treatment difference not significant ( p = .7). Control children regressed by follow-up (difference p = .034, d = 0.65), but overall difference was not significant ( p = .13, d = .47). No measure showed significant treatment differences at treatment end, but one did at follow-up. Children with IQ-achievement discrepancy ≥ 1 SD showed significantly more CMA advantage on three measures. Conclusion: This study illustrates the importance of a credible control condition of equal duration and intensity in trials of novel treatments. CMA treatment cannot be recommended for combined-type ADHD without learning disorder. (J. of Att. Dis. 2008; 11(5) 599-611)
Using Programme Theory to Evaluate Complicated and Complex Aspects of Interventions
Authors: Rogers Patricia J.
Published: January 2008

This article proposes ways to use programme theory for evaluating aspects of programmes that are complicated or complex. It argues that there are useful distinctions to be drawn between aspects that are complicated and those that are complex, and provides examples of programme theory evaluations that have usefully represented and address both of these. While complexity has been defined in varied ways in previous discussions of evaluation theory and practice, this article draws on Glouberman and Zimmerman's conceptualization of the differences between what is complicated (multiple components) and what is complex (emergent). Complicated programme theory may be used to represent interventions with multiple components, multiple agencies, multiple simultaneous causal strands and/or multiple alternative causal strands. Complex programme theory may be used to represent recursive causality (with reinforcing loops), disproportionate relationships (where at critical levels, a small change can make a big difference — a `tipping point') and emergent outcomes.
Evaluating Complex, Area-Based Initiatives in a Context of Change
Authors: Spicer Neil , Smith Penny
Published: January 2008

Complex, area-based initiatives are a widely adopted policy response to problems of health inequalities and social exclusion in industrialized countries such as the UK and the US.This article explores the problems of evaluating such initiatives in a context of rapid national and local policy change by drawing on the Children's Fund, a UK government initiative that established local partnerships in each English local authority to promote children's social inclusion. It is suggested that independent local evaluations commissioned by the partnerships have had limited influence on programme design and implementation, and indeed have been highly contested in their use.The importance of dialogic engagement between evaluators and stakeholders is highlighted.
A Sociology of the Demonic?
Authors: Harrington Austin
Published: January 2008

This article examines some aspects of the neglected work of Alfred Weber, younger brother of the vastly better appreciated Max Weber. Working under conditions of `inner exile' in Nazi Germany, Alfred Weber composed a series of writings dating from the years of the Second World War on conceptions of transcendence in Western civilization and their relevance to a sociological revaluation of the time-honoured claims of Judaeo-Christian monotheism. These writings compare closely with Karl Jaspers's existentialist conception of transcendence and `limit-experience' from the same period and also particularly with the later philosophical writings of Georg Simmel on the concept of life and the meaning of absolute value orientations from the standpoint of historical immanence. This distinctive conception of `immanent transcendence' — first named as such by Simmel and later reaffirmed by Alfred Weber — is explored in this article in relation to a range of questions about the normative import of theological figures of thought and language for the formation of modern social-scientific thinking and reasoning. The claim is defended that Alfred Weber's oeuvre should remain of interest to contemporary social theorists, despite its many weaknesses and frequent moments of obscurity.
Mortuary practices in Bam after the earthquake
Authors: Garazhian Omran , Papoli Yazdi Leila
Published: January 2008

On 26 December 2003, an earthquake in Bam, south-eastern Iran, resulted in an estimated death toll of 40,000. This article suggests that post-disaster burial practices provide alternative avenues for research, notably the changes in burial styles, grave markers and other material culture associated with burials. This article is the result of ethnoarchaeological research conducted on eight cemeteries in Bam, at intervals of 2, 6 and 17 months after the earthquake. The cemeteries chosen span a time period of 200 years prior to the disaster to 17 months after it, in order to track a wide range of long-term patterns. The post-disaster burial patterns are compared with those patterns prior to the disaster. We hope to demonstrate that the patterns present can be used to interpret burial practices under conditions such as natural disasters in archaeological contexts.
Conceiving sex
Authors: Geller Pamela L.
Published: January 2008

There has always been sex in bioarchaeology. Researchers believe that biological sex, as a fundamental category of skeletal analysis, is dualistic, innate, and unchanging. To highlight the shortcomings in bioarchaeology's analysis of sex, I stress several important ideas derived from feminist-inspired scholarship. In the past 15 years, many of these scholars have worked to demystify sex as a fixed, dichotomous entity by historicizing the concept and detailing cross-cultural understandings. I also tease out biomedicine's comprehension of sex, as evidenced by discourse and practice. Biomedicine provides the larger epistemic frame for bioarchaeologists' sexing criteria, as well as the meanings that many investigators attach to discernible, biological difference. Ultimately, drawing on feminist-inspired theories allows for critical reflection as well as exploration of alternative issues. Such integration supplies fertile ground upon which biologically oriented scholars may sow the seeds of needed disciplinary changes.
Building biographies and households
Authors: Nanoglou Stratos
Published: January 2008

This article concerns the built landscape of Neolithic Thessaly and western Macedonia, Greece, and the identities that may have been constituted through its inhabitation. It focuses on the buildings as material entities and it specifically attempts to highlight the bearings of buildings upon people's lives, tracing the invocation of their materiality in the discourse of architecture and beyond. It is suggested that in this way we leave open the possibility that structures different from our own were performed in the past.
Visual essentialism and the object of visual culture
Authors: Bal Mieke
Published: January 2008

The double question whether visual culture studies is a discipline or an interdisciplinary movement, and which methods are most suited to practice in this field, can only be addressed by way of the object. This article probes the difficulty of defining or delimiting the object of study without the reassuring and widespread visual essentialism that, in the end, can only be tautological.
Depression and the logic of separation: situating Pierre Fédida’s ‘La Relique et le travail du deuil’ (The relic and the work of mourning)
Authors: Stone-Richards M.
Published: January 2008

This article introduces the work of psychoanalyst Pierre Fédida on the work of mourning, separation and depression. Fédida’s work is first examined in relation to works by Freud, Lagache, Mannoni and Laplanche. After explaining the importance of anthropology in the conceptualization of mourning, attention is then directed to clinical interpretation illustrated by Georges Rodenbach ( Bruges-la-morte) and Chantal Akerman ( Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles). Attention is drawn to the role of substitutive formations, leading to an understanding of the mobility of psychic life such that the presence of unanalyzable psychotic kernels suggests not only limits to analytic experience but a corresponding presence in culture, too. From this, certain suggestions on temporality and depression - living the impossible death - lead, to a question relating to the renovation of cultural histories and studies. What should be the issue - visual culture, or a philosophical anthropology of culture and visuality where crisis and resistance become forms of the unanalyzability of the time of the other?
The New York Times, Norman Rockwell and the new patriotism
Authors: Frascina Francis
Published: January 2008

Between 2 November and 1 December 2001, The New York Times reproduced five Norman Rockwell paintings, which had been digitally manipulated to evoke ‘September 11’ and its aftermath. These full-page adverts for the newspaper were signifiers of revisionist cultural values, selective sentiment, familial security, and particular visions of the nation-state. This article explores the images as: expressions of mourning, trauma and the new patriotism; an ideological narrative within media manufacture of consent; contributions to dominant versions of collective memory and politicized memorials of the present.
Comparison of kernel estimators of conditional distribution function and quantile regression under censoring
Authors: Gannoun Ali , Saracco Jérôme , Yu Keming
Published: January 2008

We considera regression model in which the variable of interest is censored. We present various nonparametric estimators of the conditional distribution function and of conditional quantiles. In a simulation study, we compare the performance of these estimators. Moreover, the local linear estimator of conditional quantile is applied on a dataset dealing with the effect of age on survival time of kidney transplant patients.
Parameter instability in quantile regression
Authors: Furno Marilena
Published: January 2008

The paper analyzes the behavior of a test for structural break based on quantile regression estimates. It considers the case of an estimated break in conjunction with independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) and non-i.i.d. errors. It compares the null and the alternative models, where the null imposes stability, while the alternative allows the regression coefficients to change in response to the break. The test relies on the increase of the objective function and the worsening of the fit when unnecessary constraints are imposed. An example with serially correlated real data and a Monte Carlo study taking into account non-normal and non-i.i.d. errors analyze the behavior of the test.
The Stalled Career: Addressing an Organizational Undiscussable
Authors: Kormanik Martin B.
Published: January 2008

The problem and the solution. Conditions in the United States have created a situation in which some middle-aged White males are experiencing a stalled career; they perceive they have plateaued in career progression, while at the same time women and minority peers continue advancing.There has been no research describing the stalled career experience or its impact on the workplace.This phenomenological study explores the stalled career phenomenon by asking White males who have experienced the nonevent work transition of a stalled career to describe their experiences.The analytical framework for this exploration into adult development is transitions theory. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
The Next Generation of Career Success: Implications for HRD
Authors: McDonald Kimberly S. , Hite Linda M.
Published: January 2008

The problem and the solution. This exploratory qualitative study investigated young professionals' definitions of career success and the strategies they employ to achieve that success. There were three over-arching themes that emerged from the data. Two reflect how young professionals perceive career success.They see it as individualistic and as a multidimensional concept that is likely to change throughout their work lives.The third theme, attaining work—life balance, is integral to their definition of career success as well as to their strategies for attaining success. Implications for human resource development are provided.
Behavioral Medicine Review: Psychological Risks for Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Terre Lisa
Published: January 2008

Despite their ubiquity in primary care, psychological disorders often are overlooked as cues to heightened risk for metabolic syndrome (MetS), potentially leading to the suboptimal management of patients with these comorbid conditions. Accordingly, this review discusses psychological dysfunction as an under-appreciated MetS hazard and the strategic implications for cardiometabolic risk reduction in primary care.
A single point-mutation within the melanophilin gene causes the lavender plumage colour dilution phenotype in the chicken
Authors: Vaez Mohsen , Follett Sarah A , Bed'hom Bertrand , Gourichon David , Tixier-Boichard Michèle , Burke Terry
Published: January 2008

Background

The lavender phenotype in the chicken causes the dilution of both black (eumelanin) and red/brown (phaeomelanin) pigments. Defects in three genes involved in intracellular melanosomal transport, previously described in mammals, give rise to similar diluted pigmentation phenotypes as those seen in lavender chickens.

Results

We have used a candidate-gene approach based on an expectation of homology with mammals to isolate a gene involved in pigmentation in chicken. Comparative sequence analysis of candidate genes in the chicken identified a strong association between a mutation in the MLPH gene and the diluted pigmentation phenotype. This mutation results in the amino acid change R35W, at a site also associated with similar phenotypes in mice, humans and cats.

Conclusion

This is the first time that an avian species with a mutation in the MLPH gene has been reported.
A pig multi-tissue normalised cDNA library: large-scale sequencing, cluster analysis and 9K micro-array resource generation
Authors: Bonnet Agnès , Iannuccelli Eddie , Hugot Karine , Benne Francis , Bonaldo Maria F , Soares Marcelo B , Hatey François , Tosser-Klopp Gwenola
Published: January 2008

Background

Domestic animal breeding and product quality improvement require the control of reproduction, nutrition, health and welfare in these animals. It is thus necessary to improve our knowledge of the major physiological functions and their interactions. This would be greatly enhanced by the availability of expressed gene sequences in the databases and by cDNA arrays allowing the transcriptome analysis of any function.

The objective within the AGENAE French program was to initiate a high-throughput cDNA sequencing program of a 38-tissue normalised library and generate a diverse microarray for transcriptome analysis in pig species.

Results

We constructed a multi-tissue cDNA library, which was normalised and subtracted to reduce the redundancy of the clones. Expressed Sequence Tags were produced and 24449 high-quality sequences were released in EMBL database. The assembly of all the public ESTs (available through SIGENAE website) resulted in 40786 contigs and 54653 singletons. At least one Agenae sequence is present in 11969 contigs (12.5%) and in 9291 of the deeper-than-one-contigs (22.8%). Sequence analysis showed that both normalisation and subtraction processes were successful and that the initial tissue complexity was maintained in the final libraries. A 9K nylon cDNA microarray was produced and is available through CRB-GADIE. It will allow high sensitivity transcriptome analyses in pigs.

Conclusion

In the present work, a pig multi-tissue cDNA library was constructed and a 9K cDNA microarray designed. It contributes to the Expressed Sequence Tags pig data, and offers a valuable tool for transcriptome analysis.
Anti-Nogo-A antibody treatment does not prevent cell body shrinkage in the motor cortex in adult monkeys subjected to unilateral cervical cord lesion
Authors: Beaud Marie-Laure , Schmidlin Eric , Wannier Thierry , Freund Patrick , Bloch Jocelyne , Mir Anis , Schwab Martin E , Rouiller Eric M
Published: January 2008

Background

After unilateral cervical cord lesion at the C7/C8 border interrupting the dorsolateral funiculus in adult monkeys, neutralization of Nogo-A using a specific monoclonal antibody promoted sprouting of corticospinal (CS) axons rostral and caudal to the lesion and, in parallel, improved functional recovery. In monkeys lesioned but not treated with the anti-Nogo-A antibody, the CS neurons in the contralesional primary motor cortex (M1) survived to the axotomy, but their soma shrank. Because the anti-Nogo-A treatment induces regeneration and/or sprouting of CS axons, it may improve access to neurotrophic factors. The question therefore arises as to whether anti-Nogo-A treatment prevents the soma shrinkage observed in the contralesional M1?

Results

Using the marker SMI-32, a quantitative and qualitative anatomical assessment of the pyramidal neurons in the layer V (thus including the CS cells) in M1 was performed and compared across three groups of animals: intact monkeys (n = 5); monkeys subjected to the cervical cord lesion and treated with a control antibody (n = 4); monkeys with the cervical lesion and treated with anti-Nogo-A antibody (n = 5). SMI-32 positive neurons on the side contralateral to the lesion were generally less well stained than those on the ipsilesional hemisphere, suggesting that they expressed less neurofilaments. Nevertheless, in all three groups of monkeys, the amount of SMI-32 positive neurons in both hemispheres was generally comparable, confirming the notion that most axotomized CS neurons survived. However, shrinkage of CS cell body area was observed in the contralesional hemisphere in the two groups of lesioned monkeys. The cell surface shrinkage was found to be of the same magnitude in the monkeys treated with the anti-Nogo-A antibody as in the control antibody treated monkeys.

Conclusion

The anti-Nogo-A antibody treatment did not preserve the axotomized CS cells from soma shrinkage, indicating that the anti-Nogo-A antibody treatment affects morphologically the axotomized CS neurons mainly at distal levels, especially the axon collateralization in the cervical cord, and little or not at all at the level of their soma.