bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of vibrational energy transfer in two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy of amide I and amide II modes in solution
Authors: Bloem Elin , Dijkstra Arend G. , Jansen Thomas la Cour , Knoester Jasper
Published: August 2008

Population transfer between vibrational eigenstates is important for many phenomena in chemistry. In solution, this transfer is induced by fluctuations in molecular conformation as well as in the surrounding solvent. We develop a joint electrostatic density functional theory map that allows us to connect the mixing of and thereby the relaxation between the amide I and amide II modes of the peptide building block N-methyl acetamide. This map enables us to extract a fluctuating vibrational Hamiltonian from molecular dynamics trajectories. The linear absorption spectrum, population transfer, and two-dimensional infrared spectra are then obtained from this Hamiltonian by numerical integration of the Schrödinger equation. We show that the amide I/amide II cross peaks in two-dimensional infrared spectra in principle allow one to follow the vibrational population transfer between these two modes. Our simulations of N-methyl acetamide in heavy water predict an efficient relaxation between the two modes with a time scale of 790 fs. This accounts for most of the relaxation of the amide I band in peptides, which has been observed to take place on a time scale of 450 fs in N-methyl acetamide. We therefore conclude that in polypeptides, energy transfer to the amide II mode offers the main relaxation channel for the amide I vibration.
Mechanisms of reversible photodegradation in disperse orange 11 dye doped in PMMA polymer
Authors: Embaye Natnael B. , Ramini Shiva K. , Kuzyk Mark G.
Published: August 2008

We use amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) and linear absorption spectroscopy to study the mechanisms of reversible photodegradation of 1-amino-2-methylanthraquinone (disperse orange 11-DO11) in solid poly(methyl methacrylate). Measurements as a function of intensity, concentration, and time suggest that ASE originates in a state (be it a tautomer or a vibronic level) that can form a dimer or some other aggregate upon relaxation, which through fluorescence quenching leads to degradation of the ASE signal. Whatever the degradation route, a high concentration of DO11 is required and the polymer plays a key role in the process of opening a new reversible degradation pathway that is not available at lower concentrations or in liquid solutions. We construct an energy level diagram that describes all measured quantities in the decay and recovery processes and propose a hypothesis of the nature of the associated states.
Boron segregation in crystallized MgO/amorphous-Co40Fe40B20 thin films
Authors: You C. Y. , Ohkubo T. , Takahashi Y. K. , Hono K.
Published: August 2008

We have investigated the crystallization process of an amorphous Co40Fe40B20 ribbon and a MgO/amorphous-Co40Fe40B20 thin film to simulate the segregation of B in the magnetic tunneling junctions that use CoFeB ferromagnetic electrodes and a MgO tunneling barrier. Both types of samples show the same crystallization sequence: a primary crystallization of bcc-FeCo from an amorphous precursor followed by boride crystallization at a higher annealing temperature. Three-dimensional atom probe analysis has shown that very little boron is dissolved in the bcc-FeCo crystals (∼1 at. %). A transmission electron microscopy observation of an annealed MgO/Co40Fe40B20 bilayer thin film has shown clear evidence of MgO serving as heterogeneous nucleation sites for bcc-FeCo grains. Energy filtering transmission electron microscopy has shown strong boron segregation at the MgO/FeCo interface after the crystallization of the MgO/amorphous-Co40Fe40B20 bilayer film.
A double Gerdien instrument for simultaneous bipolar air conductivity measurements on balloon platforms
Authors: Nicoll K. A. , Harrison R. G.
Published: August 2008

A bipolar air conductivity instrument is described for use with a standard disposable meteorological radiosonde package. It is intended to provide electrical measurements at cloud boundaries, where the ratio of the bipolar air conductivities is affected by the presence of charged particles. The sensors are two identical Gerdien-type electrodes, which, through a voltage decay method, measure positive and negative air conductivities simultaneously. Voltage decay provides a thermally stable approach and a novel low current leakage electrometer switch is described which initiates the decay sequence. The radiosonde supplies power and telemetry, as well as measuring simultaneous meteorological data. A test flight using a tethered balloon determined positive (σ+) and negative (σ−) conductivities of σ+=2.77±0.2fSm−1 and σ−=2.82±0.2fSm−1, respectively, at 400m aloft, with σ+∕σ−=0.98±0.04.
Repetition rate operation of an improved magnetically insulated transmission line oscillator
Authors: Fan Yu-Wei , Zhong Hui-Huang , Li Zhi-Qiang , Shu Ting , Yang Han-Wu , Zhou Heng , Yuan Cheng-Wei , Zhou Wei-Hong , Luo Ling
Published: August 2008

In order to investigate the performances of repetition rate (rep-rate) operation of an improved magnetically insulated transmission line oscillator (MILO), a series of experiments are carried out on the improved MILO device, which is driven by a 40Ω, 50ns rep-rate pulser, TORCH-01. Polymer velvet and graphite cathodes are tested, respectively, in the experiments, whose diameters and lengths are the same. The results of experimental comparison between them are presented in the paper. Both cathodes are tested at electric field strengths of about 300kV∕cm. The applied voltage has 60ns duration with a rise time of 10ns. This paper focuses on the performance of the voltage and current characteristics, the shot-to-shot reproducibility, the pressure evolution of the diode, and the lifetime of the cathodes, not upon the radiated microwave power. The experimental results show that the graphite cathode is superior to the velvet cathode in the lifetime and the shot-to-shot reproducibility during the rep-rate operation, and it is a promising cathode for the MILO device under the rep-rate conditions.
Self-aligned top-gate amorphous gallium indium zinc oxide thin film transistors
Authors: Park Jaechul , Song Ihun , Kim Sunil , Kim Sangwook , Kim Changjung , Lee Jaecheol , Lee Hyungik , Lee Eunha , Yin Huaxiang , Kim Kyoung-Kok , Kwon Kee-Won , Park Youngsoo
Published: August 2008

We have demonstrated a self-aligned top-gate amorphous gallium indium zinc oxide thin film transistor (a-GIZO TFT). It had a field effect mobility of 5 cm2/V s, a threshold voltage of 0.2 V, and a subthreshold swing of 0.2 V/decade. Ar plasma was treated on the source/drain region of the a-GIZO active layer to reduce the series resistance. After Ar plasma treatment, the surface of the source/drain region was divided into In-rich and In-deficient regions. The a-GIZO TFT also had a constant sheet resistance of 1 kΩ/◻ for a film thickness of over 40 nm. The interface between the source/drain Mo metal and the Ar plasma-treated a-GIZO indicated a good Ohmic contact and a contact resistivity of 50 μΩ cm2.
Thermally activated charge transfer in a Prussian blue derivative probed by resonant inelastic x-ray scattering
Authors: Jarrige I. , Cai Y. Q. , Ishii H. , Hiraoka N. , Bleuzen A.
Published: August 2008

Charge-transfer excitation is at the source of the photoinduced magnetism observed in several Prussian blue molecule-based magnets. Using resonant inelastic x-ray scattering and x-ray absorption spectroscopy, we probe directly the thermally activated charge transfer in a photomagnetic Fe-Co cyanide, Cs0.7Co4[Fe(CN)6]2.9[◻]1.1.16H2O, where [◻] represents [Fe(CN)6] vacancies. The temperature dependence of both Co and Fe valence ratios is estimated for the first time in one cooling run, thus yielding a more complete picture of the temperature-induced cooperative electronic modifications. This novel approach, benefiting from relatively short acquisition times, opens the possibility for realtime characterization of the photoinduced magnetism in molecule-based magnets.
Quasiparticle cooling of a single Cooper pair transistor
Authors: Ferguson A. J.
Published: August 2008

A superconducting tunnel junction is used to directly extract quasiparticles from one of the leads of a single Cooper pair transistor. The consequent reduction in quasiparticle density causes a lower rate of quasiparticle tunneling onto the device. This rate is directly measured by radio-frequency reflectometry. Local cooling may be of direct benefit in reducing the effect of quasiparticles on coherent superconducting nanostructures.
An immunotoxin with greatly reduced immunogenicity by identification and removal of B cell epitopes
Authors: Onda Masanori , Beers Richard , Xiang Laiman , Nagata Satoshi , Wang Qing-cheng , Pastan Ira
Published: August 2008

Recombinant immunotoxins are hybrid proteins composed of an Fv that binds to a tumor antigen fused to a bacterial or plant toxin. Immunotoxin BL22 targets CD22 positive malignancies and is composed of an anti-CD22 Fv fused to a 38-kDa fragment of
Pseudomonas
exotoxin A (PE38). BL22 has produced many complete remissions in drug-resistant Hairy cell leukemia, where many treatment cycles can be given, because neutralizing antibodies do not form. In marked contrast, only minor responses have been observed in trials with immunotoxins targeting solid tumors, because only a single treatment cycle can be given before antibodies develop. To allow more treatment cycles and increase efficacy, we have produced a less immunogenic immunotoxin by identifying and eliminating most of the B cell epitopes on PE38. This was accomplished by mutation of specific large hydrophilic amino acids (Arg, Gln, Glu, Lys) to Ala, Ser, or Gly. The new immunotoxin (HA22–8X) is significantly less immunogenic in three strains of mice, yet retains full cytotoxic and anti-tumor activities. Elimination of B-cell epitopes is a promising approach to the production of less immunogenic proteins for therapeutic purposes.
A Cdo–Bnip-2–Cdc42 signaling pathway regulates p38α/β MAPK activity and myogenic differentiation
Authors: Kang Jong-Sun , Bae Gyu-Un , Yi Min-Jeong , Yang Youn-Joo , Oh Ji-Eun , Takaesu Giichi , Zhou Yi Ting , Low Boon Chuan , Krauss Robert S.
Published: August 2008

The p38α/β mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway promotes skeletal myogenesis, but the mechanisms by which it is activated during this process are unclear. During myoblast differentiation, the promyogenic cell surface receptor Cdo binds to the p38α/β pathway scaffold protein JLP and, via JLP, p38α/β itself. We report that Cdo also interacts with Bnip-2, a protein that binds the small guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) Cdc42 and a negative regulator of Cdc42, Cdc42 GTPase-activating protein (GAP). Moreover, Bnip-2 and JLP are brought together through mutual interaction with Cdo. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments with myoblasts indicate that the Cdo–Bnip-2 interaction stimulates Cdc42 activity, which in turn promotes p38α/β activity and cell differentiation. These results reveal a previously unknown linkage between a cell surface receptor and downstream modulation of Cdc42 activity. Furthermore, interaction with multiple scaffold-type proteins is a distinctive mode of cell surface receptor signaling and provides one mechanism for specificity of p38α/β activation during cell differentiation.
Microtubule cross-linking triggers the directional motility of kinesin-5
Authors: Kapitein Lukas C. , Kwok Benjamin H. , Weinger Joshua S. , Schmidt Christoph F. , Kapoor Tarun M. , Peterman Erwin J.G.
Published: August 2008

Although assembly of the mitotic spindle is known to be a precisely controlled process, regulation of the key motor proteins involved remains poorly understood. In eukaryotes, homotetrameric kinesin-5 motors are required for bipolar spindle formation. Eg5, the vertebrate kinesin-5, has two modes of motion: an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)–dependent directional mode and a diffusive mode that does not require ATP hydrolysis. We use single-molecule experiments to examine how the switching between these modes is controlled. We find that Eg5 diffuses along individual microtubules without detectable directional bias at close to physiological ionic strength. Eg5's motility becomes directional when bound between two microtubules. Such activation through binding cargo, which, for Eg5, is a second microtubule, is analogous to known mechanisms for other kinesins. In the spindle, this might allow Eg5 to diffuse on single microtubules without hydrolyzing ATP until the motor is activated by binding to another microtubule. This mechanism would increase energy and filament cross-linking efficiency.
Ku80 removal from DNA through double strand break–induced ubiquitylation
Authors: Postow Lisa , Ghenoiu Cristina , Woo Eileen M. , Krutchinsky Andrew N. , Chait Brian T. , Funabiki Hironori
Published: August 2008

The Ku70/Ku80 heterodimer, or Ku, is the central component of the nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway of double strand break (DSB) repair. Because Ku forms a ring through which the DSB threads, it likely becomes topologically attached to DNA during repair. The mechanism for its removal was unknown. Using a method to identify proteins recruited to DSBs in Xenopus laevis egg extract, we show that DSB-containing DNAs accumulate members of the Skp1–Cul1–F-box complex and K48-linked polyubiquitylated proteins in addition to known repair proteins. We demonstrate that Ku80 is degraded in response to DSBs in a ubiquitin-mediated manner. Strikingly, K48-linked polyubiquitylation, but not proteasomal degradation, is required for the efficient removal of Ku80 from DNA. This removal is DNA length dependent, as Ku80 is retained on duplex oligonucleotides. Finally, NHEJ completion and removal of Ku80 from DNA are independent from one another. We propose that DSB-induced ubiquitylation of Ku80 provides a mechanism to efficiently eliminate Ku from DNA for pre- and postrepair processes.
An Outbreak of Varicella with Likely Breakthrough Disease in a Population of Pediatric Cancer Patients
Authors: Adler Amanda L. , Casper Corey , Boeckh Michael , Heath Joan , Zerr Danielle M.
Published: August 2008

Background.

Varicella is highly contagious, and immunocompromised patients are at increased risk of severe illness, including disseminated disease, pneumonia, and encephalitis. We describe an outbreak of varicella with likely breakthrough disease in a population of pediatric cancer patients in October 2004.

Setting.

A 250-bed tertiary care pediatric facility with a 33-bed oncology unit, outpatient clinics, and affiliated group housing and schoolroom spaces.

Methods.

We defined varicella as an acute illness with a maculopapulovesicular rash, without other apparent cause. We defined breakthrough disease as varicella with onset more than 42 days after vaccination. Cancer patients were considered to be nonimmune if serologic test results were negative for varicella-zoster virus. Family members were considered to be nonimmune if they had no history of infection with wild-type varicella-zoster virus or of varicella vaccination.

Results.

In a period of approximately 16 days, varicella was detected in 7 children (the index case, 5 secondary cases, and 1 tertiary case). Of the 7 identified cases, 4 appeared to be cases of breakthrough disease in previously vaccinated children. The outbreak resulted in the exposure of 82 families at a pediatric group housing facility; 28 children at the schoolroom; and77patients, 150 family members, and 9 staff members at 3 outpatient clinics.

Conclusions.

This outbreak highlights the important role that breakthrough varicella can play in healthcare centers with affiliated group housing. Formal recommendations on the management of exposed individuals who have been vaccinated should be made in such settings, especially if immunocompromised hosts are present.
Trust models in ubiquitous computing
Authors: Krukow Karl , Nielsen Mogens , Sassone Vladimiro
Published: August 2008

We recapture some of the arguments for trust-based technologies in ubiquitous computing, followed by a brief survey of some of the models of trust that have been introduced in this respect. Based on this, we argue for the need of more formal and foundational trust models.
Summer depth selection in crustacean zooplankton in nutrient‐poor boreal lakes is affected by recent residential development
Authors: GÉLINAS MALORIE , PINEL‐ALLOUL BERNADETTE
Published: August 2008

1. Strong vertical gradients in light, water temperature, oxygen, algal concentration and predator encounters during summer in stratified lakes may influence patterns of depth selection in crustacean zooplankton, especially Daphnia species.

2. To test how crustacean depth selection varies among lakes along a gradient of catchment disturbance by recent residential development and land use change, we calculated the weighted mean depth distribution of the biomass of crustaceans by day and night in eight nutrient‐poor boreal lakes.

3. Generally, the greatest biomass of crustaceans was located at the metalimnion or at the lower boundary of the euphotic zone during thermal stratification in July. The crustacean zooplankton avoided warm surface layers and tended to stay in colder deep waters by both day and night. They also remained at greater depths in lakes with a more extensive euphotic zone.

4. There was some evidence of upward nocturnal migrations of large Daphnia and copepods in some lakes, and one case of downward migration in a lake inhabited by chaoborid larvae.

5. Multivariate regression trees (MRT) were used to cluster crustaceans and Daphnia species in homogeneous groups based on lake natural and disturbance factors. For crustaceans, the depth of the euphotic zone, the sampling depth (epilimnion, metalimnion and hypolimnion), time (day or night) of sampling and the biomass of chlorophyll a were the main driving factors. For Daphnia species, the drainage area, the sampling depth, the cleared land surface area within the catchment and the concentration of total dissolved phosphorus were the main factors.
Sex‐specific behavioural effects of environmental enrichment in a transgenic mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Stam Nathan C. , Nithianantharajah Jess , Howard Monique L. , Atkin Julie D. , Cheema Surindar S. , Hannan Anthony J.
Published: August 2008

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterised by motor neuron degeneration, muscle wasting and paralysis. While twin studies support a role for both genetic and environmental factors in ALS, the nature of environmental modifiers is unknown. We therefore compared onset and progression of disease symptoms in female and male transgenic ALS mice (expressing the human SOD1G93A gene mutation) and their wild‐type littermates, housed in environmentally enriched versus standard conditions. Environmental enrichment significantly improved motor performance, as measured using the accelerating rotarod, in particular for female mice. This enhanced motor coordination was observed for both SOD1G93A and wild‐type mice, suggesting this effect is independent of genotype. Female SOD1G93A mice housed with environmental enrichment were found to reach overt end‐stage disease sooner than their standard‐housed littermates. However, male SOD1G93A mice did not show significantly accelerated disease progression. This evidence for environmental modulation of ALS pathogenesis in transgenic mice provides insights into activity‐dependent aspects of the disease process, and may help identify molecular targets for pharmacological modulators as future therapeutics.
THE HARM OF IMMORALITY
Authors: Bloomfield Paul
Published: August 2008

A central problem in moral theory is how it is to be defended against those who think that there is no harm in being immoral, and that immorality can be in one's self‐interest, assuming the perpetrator is not caught and punished. The argument presented here defends the idea that being immoral prevents one from having self‐respect. If it makes sense to think that one cannot be happy without self‐respect, then the conclusion follows that one cannot be both immoral and happy. Immorality is harmful because its self‐disrespecting nature keeps immoralists from being happy. This is the harm of immorality.
SHOULD A B‐THEORETIC ATHEIST FEAR DEATH?
Authors: Burley Mikel
Published: August 2008

This article discusses Robin Le Poidevin's proposal that a commitment to the B‐theory of time provides atheists with a reason to relinquish the fear of death. For the purposes of the article, I grant Le Poidevin's assertion that the B‐theory gives us a sense in which our lives are ‘eternally real’; but I deny that the B‐theorist is entitled to regard this as sufficient to furnish a reason to cease fearing death. This is because, according to the most prevalent B‐theoretic conception of our emotional attitudes, A‐theoretic (and not B‐theoretic) beliefs are sufficient to ground these attitudes. I discuss this B‐theoretic account of our emotions, which I call the Mellor–MacBeath model, and explain how it relates to the fear of death. I argue that, according to this model, the fear of death – in so far as it is a fear of one's personal annihilation – is warranted, and hence that, if Le Poidevin's proposal is to stand, then we must be given either a new B‐theoretic account of the connection between beliefs and emotions, or an account of why the fear of death is unlike other emotional attitudes.
HOW TO RECONCILE ESSENCE WITH CONTINGENT EXISTENCE
Authors: McLeod Stephen K.
Published: August 2008

To reconcile true claims of de re necessity with the supposedly contingent existence of the concrete objects those claims are typically about, Kripkean essentialists invoke weak necessity. The claim that a is necessarily F is held to be equivalent to the claim that necessarily, if a exists then a is F. This strategy faces a barrage of serious objections a proper subset of which shows that the strategy fails to achieve its intended purpose. Relief can be provided via recourse to a markedly non‐Kripkean version of essentialism.1
Voting Paradoxes under Proportional Representation: Evidence from Eight Danish Elections
Authors: Kurrild‐Klitgaard Peter
Published: August 2008

Voter preferences for eight general elections for the Danish parliament are analysed using survey data to investigate the possible presence of five types of social choice paradoxes that may occur in list systems of proportional representation. Two serious paradoxes fail to manifest themselves, while three others occur with different frequencies. One paradox always occurs – namely, for the social ordering of political parties based on pair‐wise comparisons to be significantly different from that of the allocation of seats according to a principle of proportional representation. This result challenges the common view that a party receiving more seats than another must be presumed to be the one preferred by a majority.
The Imago Dei and Election: Reading Genesis 1:26–28 and Old Testament Scholarship with Karl Barth
Authors: MACDONALD NATHAN
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  Barth's treatment of the imago dei within his interpretation of the Genesis creation story (CD III/1) divides biblical scholars and dogmaticians. In an attempt to bridge the impasse Barth's relational interpretation is re‐examined. A narrow focus on the small print exegesis of Genesis 1:26–28 has often led to Barth being misread. In contrast, attention is given to Barth's hermeneutical principles and his exegesis is placed within the wider context of his understanding of the creation story. Even in terms of his own hermeneutic Barth's reading of the imago is shown to be problematic. This hermeneutic can, however, be applied to provide a reading of the imago as a relationship to God and the world analogous to Israel's election. Such a reading is exegetically defensible and theologically suggestive.
Strategies used by nurses when managing the emotional needs of patients
Authors: Fulton John Anthony
Published: August 2008

This paper explores the ways in which nurses in acute care settings can address the emotional needs of their patients and uses psychoanalytical concepts to provide a level of explanation. It is acknowledged that dealing with the emotional needs of patients is a key function of the nurse's role; however, there is much in the literature, particularly that from a psychoanalytical perspective, that would suggest that, in practice, defences are often used as a way of avoiding involvement with patient. This qualitative study used observational techniques as a means of collecting data from two settings in a large teaching hospital, one an acute surgical ward and the second setting was award specializing in haematological conditions. In the two settings, nurse–patient interactions differed. In the haematological ward, the emotional needs were acknowledged and addressed, whereas in the acute surgical ward institutional defences predominated, which prevented close patient involvement. The emotional needs were often passed onto the medical staff or nurse specialists, which could prevent nurses developing the requisite skills. Certain important conclusions were elicited from the data. As with any qualitative analysis, this was in keeping with a particular research framework and another framework, or indeed another researcher may have drawn different conclusions. The main conclusions drawn were the following: the nurses working in the haematological setting had developed many of the skills necessary to deal with patients’ emotional needs. In the surgical setting, the organizational system did not allow the nurses to engage sufficiently to build and develop these particular skills.
Attitudes of health sciences students towards interprofessional teamwork and education
Authors: Curran Vernon R. , Sharpe Dennis , Forristall Jennifer , Flynn Kate
Published: August 2008

Relatively little is known about the specific attributes of health professional students which may influence their attitudes towards both interprofessional teamwork and interprofessional education. A survey was distributed to all pre‐licensure health professional students from medicine, nursing, pharmacy and social work programmes at our institution. Respondents were asked to rate their attitudes towards interprofessional healthcare teams and interprofessional education using validated and reliable scales reported in the literature. Information on the respondents’ gender, profession, year of study and prior experience with interprofessional education was also collected. There was no significant difference between attitudes of medicine and nursing students towards interprofessional teamwork; however, both these student groups report significantly less positive attitudes towards interprofessional teams than pharmacy and social work students. Medicine students reported significantly less positive attitudes towards interprofessional education than nursing, pharmacy and social work students. Female students and senior undergraduate students reported significantly more positive attitudes towards interprofessional teamwork and interprofessional education, while students reporting prior experience with interprofessional education reported significantly more positive attitudes towards interprofessional teamwork. Profession, gender and year of study appear to be attributes which were related to more positive attitudes towards both interprofessional teamwork and education.
Embedding interprofessional learning in pre‐registration education in health and social care: evidence of cultural lag
Authors: Colyer Hazel M.
Published: August 2008

The aim of this study is to investigate the emergent concept of cultural lag through analysis and evaluation of academic staff's engagement with an established pre‐registration interprofessional learning (IPL) programme. By cultural lag is meant the apparent inability of some practitioners to commit wholeheartedly to the philosophy of IPL notwithstanding the current political and professional context.

The theoretical framework adopted for this study constructs the move from uniprofessional to interprofessional education as a psychosocial transition, a process of psychological adaptation to a different social world, which may be characterized or revealed by specific language and behaviours.

A qualitative survey of faculty academic staff was conducted electronically during the 2005/2006 academic year to determine the level of involvement with the programme and attitudes towards interprofessional learning. The sample comprised all 178 permanent members of academic staff and the final response was 63 (35%). Thematic, content analysis suggests that the whole meaning of the data is that academic staff see IPL as a means of promoting multi‐professional working and improved professional relationships, which has the potential to promote more person‐centred services and enhance care.

During the analysis, it was noted that there seemed to be some dissonance between the overall approval rating for IPL and the way in which respondents expressed themselves. Some of the language used and reported behaviours are analysed and interpreted as reaction to loss and indicative of the process of psychosocial transition.

It is concluded that there are signs of the phenomenon of cultural lag among the respondents. The study begins to articulate its characteristics and may be helpful in shedding some light on the attitudes and behaviours of staff who are either ambivalent or hostile to interprofessional education. It is suggested that developing and delivering interprofessional education could pose a considerable cultural challenge that cannot be ignored during curriculum development and must be taken account of when planning and managing educational change.
The Psychology of Enfranchisement: Engaging and Fostering Inclusion of Members through Voting and Decision‐Making Procedures
Authors: Gonzalez Celia M. , Tyler Tom R.
Published: August 2008

Democratic systems have many advantages. They elicit perceptions of appropriateness and legitimacy, they engage the psychological investment and commitment of those participating in the system and invite the voluntary cooperation of these persons. We argue that these advantages are conferred in large part through two features of democratic institutions and societies: the participative nature of procedures used to elect leaders, and the fairness of decision‐making procedures used by these leaders once in power. In particular, we emphasize the capacity of these procedures to engage community members and foster their inclusion, because they convey that members' concerns are taken seriously and that they are valued by the group that developed and employed those procedures, as well as by the leaders that utilize them. Implications for creating a sense of social inclusion in members of the population, and for encouraging public confidence among those who feel marginalized, in climates of distrust, and during times of crisis are discussed.
Electoral Simultaneity: Expressing Equal Respect
Authors: Thompson Dennis F.
Published: August 2008

The principle of simultaneity—that citizens should vote as far as possible at the same time—is more significant than is usually appreciated. It is based on a fundamental value of democratic theory, and it has substantial implications for electoral practice. It also invites further normative and empirical research.

The most important value that simultaneity expresses is a form of equality—equal respect. First, if citizens have only information they would have had if they were voting at the same time, the value of each citizen's choice is no greater than that of any other citizen. Second, when citizens go to the polls on the same day, publicly participating in a common experience of civic engagement, they demonstrate their willingness to contribute to the democratic process on equal terms. Taking simultaneity seriously has implications for electoral practices. It would limit the practice of media projections of election results, including the reporting of exit polls, and the calling of elections before all the polls close. It also casts doubt on the increasingly widespread use of early voting—absentee ballots and voting by mail. Early voting weakens the value of the experience of participating in a civic activity. Voting alone may be worse than bowling alone.
Race and Redistricting: What the Print Media Conveys to the Public about the Role of Race
Authors: Ergun Damla , Deason Grace , Borgida Eugene , Charles Guy‐Uriel
Published: August 2008

In a series of voting rights cases, the U.S. Supreme Court held that race‐based redistricting, particularly the intentional formation of majority–minority districts (districts in which voters of color constitute a majority of eligible voters) may be unconstitutional if race was the predominant factor in the formation of the district. The Court stated that “redistricting legislation that is so bizarre on its face that it is unexplainable on grounds other than race” may violate the Constitution because of the messages such districts send to the public (

Shaw v. Reno, 1993
). Yet neither the Court nor social scientists have examined whether the existence of race‐conscious majority–minority districts sends messages to voters and what the nature of these messages may be. This research begins to address this scientific issue. In a quantitative content analysis, we examined messages about racial redistricting conveyed to citizens via the print media. Our sample consisted of 355 newspaper articles about redistricting included in the Lexis–Nexis database between 1990 and 2005. We found that newspaper coverage of racial districting contains messages to citizens about the motives involved in redistricting, the individuals and groups who are responsible for it, and its actual and expected effects. This finding is consistent with the Supreme Court's assumption that districts, particularly bizarrely shaped ones, convey distinct messages to voters. The specific messages communicated varied in important ways across the articles. Newspapers in states subject to Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act because of their history of discrimination against voters of color covered racial redistricting differently than states not subject to Section 5. We discuss the legal and theoretical implications of these findings for understanding the role of race in legislative redistricting efforts.
The Public Administration of Elections
Authors: Montjoy Robert S.
Published: August 2008

The performance of election systems in the United States depends heavily on complex networks of people, tasks, organizations, and relationships, as well as the voting technology that has received so much attention since the presidential election of 2000. Public administration has much to contribute to our understanding of these systems. This article provides an overview of the field, highlighting linkages to theoretical approaches in public administration and emphasizing the importance of management in a brief case study.
The New Public Management, Homeland Security, and the Politics of Civil Service Reform
Authors: Riccucci Norma M. , Thompson Frank J.
Published: August 2008

This article examines the George W. Bush administration’s efforts to apply New Public Management reforms to the Department of Homeland Security. The primary focus is the administration’s attempt to implement the law. The managerial strategy that Department of Homeland Security and Office of Personnel Management executives used to carry out the law in the massive new department receives attention, with a special focus on the approach used in dealing with the federal courts. The article suggests five general lessons concerning civil service deregulation at the federal level. The case reaffirms the notion that successful administrative reform requires a keen appreciation for the politics that shape it.
Mesenchymal stem cells and cardiac repair
Authors: Nesselmann Catharina , Ma Nan , Bieback Karen , Wagner Wolfgang , Ho Anthony , Konttinen Yrjö T. , Zhang Hao , Hinescu Mihail E. , Steinhoff Gustav
Published: August 2008

Introduction

MSC isolation, characterization and standardization

Mechanisms of cardiac repair

Ex vivo manipulation of MSCs

Pre‐clinical application on cardiovascular disease

Clinical application: where are we?

Summary

Accumulating clinical and experimental evidence indicates that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising cell types in the treatment of cardiac dysfunction. They may trigger production of reparative growth factors, replace damaged cells and create an environment that favours endogenous cardiac repair. However, identifying mechanisms which regulate the role of MSCs in cardiac repair is still at work. To achieve the maximal clinical benefits, ex vivo manipulation can further enhance MSC therapeutic potential. This review focuses on the mechanism of MSCs in cardiac repair, with emphasis on ex vivo manipulation.
Control of lymphocyte development and activation by negative regulatory transmembrane adapter proteins
Authors: Simeoni Luca , Lindquist Jonathan A. , Smida Michal , Witte Vanessa , Arndt Boerge , Schraven Burkhart
Published: August 2008

Summary: Signals emanating from antigen receptors critically regulate immune cell activation, survival, and differentiation. Transmembrane adapter proteins (TRAPs), a group of molecules that organize signaling complexes at the plasma membrane, play a pivotal role in propagating and fine‐tuning antigen receptor‐mediated signaling. During the last years, it has been demonstrated that most of the TRAPs possess inhibitory functions, including linker for activation of T cells (LAT), the best characterized adapter that links the T‐cell receptor (TCR) to Ca2+ flux and mitogen‐activated protein kinase activation. Indeed, it appears that LAT may assemble inhibitory complexes that trigger negative feedback loops, thus terminating T‐cell activation. Additionally, recent data demonstrate that SIT [Src homology 2 domain‐containing phosphatase 2 (SHP2)‐interacting TRAP] fine‐tunes TCR‐mediated signaling events and negatively regulates T‐cell development and homeostasis. The experimental evidence suggests that TRAPs play a crucial role also in establishing tolerance. In fact, loss of SIT, LAX, or NTAL (non‐T cell activation linker)/linker for activation of B cells (LAB) resulted in the spontaneous development of autoimmune diseases. Moreover, we recently showed that in addition to the inhibition of Src‐family kinases, PAG (phosphoprotein associated with glycosphingolipid‐enriched domains) is also involved in the negative regulation of Ras activation. Collectively, these data demonstrate that TRAPs are important modulators of immune cell activation and function. Finally, it appears that TRAPs possess redundant yet not completely overlapping functions.
Parent perceptions of child sleep: a study of 10 000 Swedish children
Authors: Palmstierna Peder , Sepa Anneli , Ludvigsson Johnny
Published: August 2008

Aim: To gather normative data on parent‐reported child sleep and investigate what influences it.

Methods: Subjective sleep report data on night wakings, sleep quality, bedtime and risetime were gathered from parents of around 10 000 children from birth to age 5 in a cohort questionnaire study. The data were analysed for trends, and sleep measures were compared with background factors such as child temperament, foreign origin, family situation, parents' age and education and night feedings.

Results: The population trends were towards improved sleep with increasing age. Individual sleep patterns show some stability. Reports of frequent night wakings and low sleep quality (LSQ) were strongly associated with each other within and between the age groups (odds ratio [OR] 2.8–60.2, p < 0.001). Perception of poor child sleep was influenced by child temperament at ages 1 and 3 (OR 2.2–4.4, p < 0.001), foreign origin at age 1 (OR 2.1–2.3, p < 0.001), and to some extent, parents' age and education at ages 1–3 (OR 1.4–2.1, p < 0.05 or stronger), but not by single parent status or infant night feedings. Reporting multiple or unspecific causes of night wakings was associated with reporting LSQ (OR 1.8–4.7, p < 0.05 or stronger).

Conclusion: With increasing age, fewer wakings, improved sleep quality and a more uniform sleep schedule seem normal. However, frequent wakings and low quality sleep at early ages seem surprisingly stable. A difficult temperament and foreign origin were associated with lower quality sleep and more frequent wakings in early ages, whereas being a single parent was not. Finally, night feeding does not seem to condition children to frequent wakings.
Elevated Lp(a) with a small apo(a) isoform in children: risk factor for the development of premature coronary artery disease
Authors: Dirisamer Albert , Widhalm Harald , Aldover‐Macasaet Elsie , Molzer Sylvia , Widhalm Kurt
Published: August 2008

Background: levels of Lp(a) and low‐molecular‐weight apolipoprotein(a) isoform are strongly associated with the development of early cardiovascular disease. Certain types of apo(a) isoforms in combination with elevated levels of Lp(a) may be important in the determining of premature coronary artery disease. Therefore, we investigated the association of familial history of premature coronary artery disease and apo(a) size and Lp(a) levels in children and adolescents with hypercholesterolemia using a novel method determining apo(a) isoforms.

Methods and results: Isoforms were classified in six phenotype patterns: S1–S4, B, F and according to their K‐IV repeats. Apo(a) isoforms were divided into two groups: low‐molecular‐ and high‐molecular apo(a) isoforms. In subjects with double‐banded apo(a) isoforms containing a small‐ and a large‐isoform Lp(a) each contribution was based on the intensity of staining of the two bands. The percentage of patients with elevated levels of Lp(a) and a small apo(a) isoform (i.e. elevated small‐isoform Lp(a)) was 46% in the risk group and 20% in the control group, p < 0.05. The percentage number of children and adolescents with elevated Lp(a) levels was higher in the risk group, reaching statistical significance (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Elevated levels of small‐isoform Lp(a) might be a strong and independent risk factor for the development of premature coronary artery disease in children and adolescents with hypercholesterolemia.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Soluble fms‐like Tyrosine Kinase‐1 in Septic Shock Patients Treated With Direct Hemoperfusion With a Polymyxin B‐immobilized Fiber Column
Authors: Ebihara Itaru , Hirayama Kouichi , Kaneko Shuzo , Nagai Miho , Ogawa Yujiro , Fujita Shogo , Usui Joichi , Mase Kaori , Yamagata Kunihiro , Kobayashi Masaki
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  Sepsis is characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to a microbial pathogen. In sepsis, capillary permeability is a tightly regulated feature of microcirculation in all organ beds and is fundamentally altered. We investigated the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level as a vascular permeability factor and the soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (Flt‐1) level as an antagonist of the VEGF receptors. Serum VEGF and soluble Flt‐1 levels in 21 patients with septic shock, who were treated with direct hemoperfusion with a polymyxin B‐immobilized fiber column (DHP‐PMX), were measured by enzyme‐linked immunoassay. The VEGF and the soluble Flt‐1 levels were more elevated in patients with septic shock than in controls. Between 14 survivors and 7 non‐survivors, there was no significant difference in VEGF level before the DHP‐PMX therapy, but the soluble Flt‐1 level of survivors was significantly lower than that of non‐survivors. Although there was no significant difference between starting and ending VEGF levels in survivors, in non‐survivors the VEGF level at the end of DHP‐PMX therapy was significantly lower than that at the start. In survivors, the soluble Flt‐1 level at the end of DHP‐PMX therapy was significantly lower than that at the start. On the other hand, in non‐survivors, there was no significant difference between the ending and starting soluble Flt‐1 levels. The soluble Flt‐1 level may be a suitable marker of disease severity and mortality.
Long‐term Clinical Outcomes of Synchronized Therapy With Plasmapheresis and Intravenous Cyclophosphamide Pulse Therapy in the Treatment of Steroid‐resistant Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Yamaji Ken , Kim Young‐Joon , Tsuda Hiroshi , Takasaki Yoshinari
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  In recent years, the vital prognosis of the patients with lupus nephritis (LN) has improved dramatically as a result of steroid therapy and the administration of immunosuppressants including cyclophosphamide, but recurrent cases and complications associated with these therapies are a concern. In this study, a long‐term retrospective evaluation was performed over a period of five years concerning the clinical characteristics, remission rate and relapse rate by dividing 38 patients with LN into three groups receiving either plasmapheresis (PP), intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy (IVCY), or both PP and IVCY (synchronized PP–IVCY) as the treatments added to steroid therapy. The complete remission rates of PP, IVCY and PP–IVCY were 5/9 (55.6%), 8/16 (50.0%) and 9/13 (69.2%), respectively. The relapsing rates of PP, IVCY and PP–IVCY were 3/9 (33.3%), 3/16 (18.8%) and 1/13 (7.7%), respectively. Synchronized PP–IVCY therapy might be superior to PP or IVCY in achieving complete remission of LN, and in minimizing the risk of relapse of impaired renal function.
The interaction model of client health behavior: A model for advanced practice nurses
Authors: Mathews Susan K. , Secrest Janet , Muirhead Lisa
Published: August 2008

Purpose: To present the Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior (IMCHB) as a model to guide nurse practitioners (NPs) in their practice.

Data sources: Selected research‐based articles on Cox’s IMCHB and selected text and writings on the NP movement and nursing practice models.

Conclusions: Many NPs practice in a medical setting where the boundaries between medicine and nursing are blurred. The IMCHB offers a nursing model to guide NPs in their practice.

Implications for practice: A nursing model that examines the elements of client uniqueness and assesses the interaction between NP and client can achieve positive health outcomes.
An uncommon skin condition illustrates the need for caution when prescribing for friends
Authors: Ares Ella
Published: August 2008

Purpose:A dual‐focused case study written to discuss the legal and medical hazards of informally writing prescriptions for friends or family members and to provide knowledge of early‐stage mycosis fungoides (MF), its course, and treatment.

Data sources:A review of the prescribing practices of clinicians, the cognitive processes needed in diagnosis and treatment, the current ethical guidelines, and a review of MF, its course, and treatments.

Conclusions:Treating acquaintances and family informally places clinicians at risk for liability and patients at risk for inaccurate diagnosis and treatment. This case illustrates the potential hazard of casually treating a friend for what looks like a benign condition. Resembling atopic dermatitis in its early stages, MF is the most common of a rare group of skin lymphomas. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a better prognosis. Had this clinician complied with the request of her friend, his diagnosis would have been missed and timely treatment delayed.

Implications for practice:No matter what the prior relationship may have been, once a clinician treats a patient, a legally binding relationship begins, requiring the due standard of care. Nurse practitioners (NPs) need to be aware of the potential for error when treating acquaintances. Available NP standards of practice and ethical guidelines should address informal treatment situations.