bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Missing Heritability in the Tails of Quantitative Traits? A Simulation Study on the Impact of Slightly Altered True Genetic Models
Authors: Pütter Carolin , Pechlivanis Sonali , Nöthen Markus M. , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Wichmann Heinz-Erich , Scherag André
Published: October 2011

Objective: Genome-wide association studies have identified robust associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms and complex traits. As the proportion of phenotypic variance explained is still limited for most of the traits, larger and larger meta-analyses are being conducted to detect additional associations. Here we investigate the impact of the study design and the underlying assumption about the true genetic effect in a bimodal mixture situation on the power to detect associations. Methods: We performed simulations of quantitative phenotypes analysed by standard linear regression and dichotomized case-control data sets from the extremes of the quantitative trait analysed by standard logistic regression. Results: Using linear regression, markers with an effect in the extremes of the traits were almost undetectable, whereas analysing extremes by case-control design had superior power even for much smaller sample sizes. Two real data examples are provided to support our theoretical findings and to explore our mixture and parameter assumption. Conclusions: Our findings support the idea to re-analyse the available meta-analysis data sets to detect new loci in the extremes. Moreover, our investigation offers an explanation for discrepant findings when analysing quantitative traits in the general population and in the extremes.
Discrimination Against Latina/os
Authors: Lee Debbiesiu L. , Ahn Soyeon
Published: October 2011

This meta-analysis synthesizes the findings of 60 independent samples from 51 studies examining racial/ethnic discrimination against Latina/os in the United States. The purpose was to identify individual-level resources and outcomes that most strongly relate to discrimination. Discrimination against Latina/os significantly results in outcomes pertaining to health, mental health, education, and employment. Mental health indicators have the strongest correlations with discrimination. Among the individual resources resulting from this meta-analysis—personal constructs and strengths, social support, acculturation, enculturation, acculturative stress, and active coping skills—personal constructs and strengths (e.g., self-esteem and self-efficacy) have the strongest correlations with discrimination and outcomes. These findings are significantly moderated by sample age, ethnicity, and regionality. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Major Life Decisions of Gifted Adults in Relation to Overall Life Satisfaction
Authors: Perrone-McGovern Kristin M. , Ksiazak Tracy M. , Wright Stephen L. , Vannatter Aarika , Hyatt Claudine C. , Shepler Dustin , Perrone Philip A.
Published: October 2011

In this study, major life decisions of gifted adults were examined in relation to life satisfaction. Participants were 57 gifted adults who have been participating in a longitudinal study over the last two decades. Qualitative data were collected via written and online surveys, and were analyzed by a research team using phenomenological, postpositivist, consensus-seeking methods. Participants’ decisions were categorized according to their developmental stage at the time of the decision. Their perspectives regarding major life decisions, life satisfaction, career, romantic relationships, family relationships, and personal well-being are described and discussed in relation to existing knowledge and literature on gifted adults. Suggestions for counselors and educators are provided, based on the findings of this study.
Re-fitting for a different purpose: A case study of item writer practices in adapting source texts for a test of academic reading
Authors: Green Anthony , Hawkey Roger
Published: October 2011

The important yet under-researched role of item writers in the selection and adaptation of texts for high-stakes reading tests is investigated through a case study involving a group of trained item writers working on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). In the first phase of the study, participants were invited to reflect in writing, and then audio-recorded in a semantic-differential-based joint discussion, on the processes they employed to generate test material. The group were next observed at a simulated item writers’ editing meeting to refine their texts and items for an IELTS reading test module. The participants’ written descriptions and recorded discussions provided rich data on how source texts were perceived, selected and adapted for the Test. The study reports findings from textual analyses using indices of readability and lexical density from the original material sourced by the item writers and their adapted versions for the test. Results from qualitative and quantitive analyses are discussed in terms of the implications for the IELTS reading module of editing actions such as: reducing redundancy and technical language, changing styles, deciding on potentially sensitive issues and relationships between texts and test items. The important issue of text authenticity in tests such as IELTS is also broached.
Urban geographies I
Authors: Jacobs Jane M.
Published: October 2011

This review essay revisits recent scholarship within urban geography that has been shaped by relational theory, looking specifically at the scholarship on urban policy mobilities and urban assemblages. As will be shown, current urban geographies of relationality operate with irreconcilable grammars.
Effects of omethoate on certain oxidative biomarkers in various tissues of frogs (Rana ridibunda) at acute exposure
Authors: Isnas Musa , Yegin Esref , Celik Ismail
Published: October 2011

The study aimed mainly to assess effects of omethoate on certain oxidative stress biomarkers in various tissues of frogs ( Rana ridibunda). Biomarkers selected for stress monitoring were malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant defense system (ADS) constituent such as reduced glutathione (GSH) level, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the liver, brain, heart and kidney tissues of frogs exposed to 10 and 20 ppm dosages of omethoate for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. Results showed that the administrations of omethoate promote MDA content in the tissues of the frogs treated with both dosages of omethoate. With regard to the ADS, GSH-Px, GST, SOD activities and GSH levels decreased after 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours in the tissues of treatment groups compared with controls. Collective results demonstrated that the exposures to omethoate of frogs induced an increase in MDA joined with fluctuated ADS. This may reflect the potential role of these parameters as useful biomarkers for assessment of aquatic pollution.
Phytoremediation of lead in urban polluted soils in the north of Iran
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Armin
Published: October 2011

Evaluation of toxic metal concentration in soil and plants in environment are the most important subject according to the health of ecosystem. This study was carried out by investigating the density of lead in urban polluted soils with tree species such as buttonwood in Rasht City. To this aim, 120 samples of leaves and surface roots of trees from polluted sites and controlled sites were collected and then lead concentration in each sample was determined by atomic absorption instrument (Varian model 220). Results indicated that the lead concentration and translocation factor in buttonwood is 14.39 ppm and 3.49, respectively. This species is recently used for phytoremediation of lead in the same conditions. The highest lead concentration is in the aerial organs (shoots and leaves) of trees. Plant species can transfer lead to their aerial organs in order to have the least accumulation of this element in their underground organs.
Protective role of caffeic acid on lambda cyhalothrin-induced changes in sperm characteristics and testicular oxidative damage in rats
Authors: Abdallah Fatma Ben , Fetoui Hamadi , Zribi Nassira , Fakhfakh Feiza , Keskes Leila
Published: October 2011

The synthetic pyrethroids are expected to cause deleterious effects on most of the organs and especially on the male reproductive system. The current study was performed to assess the adverse effect of lambda cyhalothrin (LC) on reproductive organs and fertility in male rats and to evaluate the protective role of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) in alleviating the detrimental effect of LC on male fertility. A total of 48 male rats were divided into 4 groups (12 rats each): control group received distilled water ad libitum and 1 ml of vehicle solution given intraperitoneally (i.p.); CAPE-treated group received a single i.p. dose of CAPE (10 μmol kg−1 day−1); LC-treated group received 668 ppm of LC through drinking water; and CAPE + LC-treated group received an i.p. injection of CAPE (10 μmol kg−1 day−1) 12 h before the LC administration. The experiment was conducted for 10 consecutive weeks. LC caused a significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione- S-transferase activities, and sperm abnormalities and a significant reduction in testicular glutathione concentration, sperm count, sperm motility, and a live sperm percentage. Conversely, treatment with CAPE improved the reduction in the sperm characteristics, LC-induced oxidative damage of testes and the testicular histopathological alterations. Results indicate that LC exerts significant harmful effects on the male reproductive system and that CAPE reduced the deleterious effects of LC on male fertility.
Genotoxicity of heavy metals to the larvae of Chironomuskiiensis Tokunaga after short-term exposure
Authors: Al-Shami Salman A , Rawi Che Salmah Md , Ahmad Abu Hassan , Nor Siti Azizah Mohd
Published: October 2011

The genotoxic effects of increasing concentrations (below lethal concentration [LC50]) of cadmium ([Cd] 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/L), copper ([Cu] 0.2, 2 and 20 mg/L) and zinc ([Zn] 0.5, 5 and 50 mg/L) on Chironomus kiiensis were evaluated using alkaline comet assay after exposure for 24 h. Both the tail moment and the olive tail moment showed significant differences between the control and different concentrations of Cd, Cu and Zn (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.05). The highest concentration of Cd was associated with higher DNA damage to C. kiiensis larvae compared with Cu and Zn. The potential genotoxicity of these metals to C. kiiensis was Cd > Cu > Zn.
Assessment of the antimutagenic effect of Doash tea extract fractions
Authors: Khan Jehan A , Jalal Jalaluddin A , Ioanndes C , Moselhy Said S
Published: October 2011

Origanum majorana L (Doash) is one of the traditional remedy that is used as a tea and to treat ailments, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The present study has attempted to evaluate the inhibitory action of Doash fractions on the bioactivation of selected food mutagens and direct-acting mutagens. Four Sallmonella bacterial strains (TA98, TA97, TA100 and TA1530) were used in the present study. These strains contain different mutations in the histidine operon, allowing the bacteria to detect different types of mutation. The two strains (TA98 and TA97) are capable of detecting frameshift mutations, while TA100 and TA1530 are able to detect base-pair substitutions. The liver homogenate and other subcellular fractions were prepared. Identification of Doash fractions was conducted using the high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry system. The results of the present study demonstrated that the Doash tea fraction components have the ability to reduce the in vitro mutagencity of several promutagens, which were employed in this study. Fraction No. 5 (with the highest content of solid) was the most potent inhibitor of the mutagenicity of all promutagens employed in this study. The antimutagenic effect of Doash tea extract, and its various fractions, was pronounced, indicating that the metabolism of cytochrome P450 1A2 isozyme is likely to be inhibited.
Self-Compassion
Authors: Reyes Darcel
Published: October 2011

This concept analysis uses a modification of the evolutionary method (Rodgers, 1989) to identify the antecedent, attributes, and consequences of self-compassion. The antecedent to self-compassion is suffering, experienced in six possible realms: an event, a situation, an emotional response, a psychological state, spiritual alienation, or a physical response to illness or pain. Suffering has three dimensions: intrapersonal, interpersonal, and contextual. Suffering manifests as a pattern of decreased self-care, decreased ability to relate to others, and diminished autonomy. The attributes of self-compassion are self-kindness, mindfulness, commonality, and wisdom. The consequences of self-compassion are the opposite of the antecedent: self-compassion manifests as a pattern of increased self-care capacity, compassion for others, and increased relatedness, autonomy, and sense of self. Ideal, borderline and contrary cases of self-compassion provide examples of the concept. The article concludes with a discussion of implications of the concept of self-compassion for nursing practice and research.
Monolithic design of a compliant template orientation stage for step imprint lithography
Authors: Shao J-Y , Ding Y-C , Liu H-Z , Li X-M , Tian H-M , Xiao B-H
Published: October 2011

The parallel surface contact between a template and a wafer is of critical importance for pattern fidelity in step imprint lithography. The passive compliant stage, which has a much simpler structure than an active control one, is an effective orientation-adjusting mechanism. For a perfect passive compliant stage, the orientation-adjusting process should bring about the smallest possible additional lateral motion to maintain the overlay precision. In the present paper, based on the analysis of a compliant wafer stage and the influence of the rotation axis on position shift, a monolithic template orientation stage with four groups of passive compliant mechanisms is proposed to satisfy the above requirements. This compliant template orientation stage can be regarded as two four-bar linkages that interfere with each other, with the connecting line of two flexible hinges in each group passing through the centre of the template, ensuring that the rotation axis is located in the centre of the template during the whole orientation-adjusting process. The performance of the designed compliant template orientation stage is researched using the finite element analysis method and experiments. The results indicate that this compliant template stage can ensure the parallel surface contact between a template and a wafer while minimizing relative lateral motion during the imprinting process.
Simple heuristic for the constrained two-dimensional cutting problem
Authors: Cui Y , Chen Q
Published: October 2011

This paper presents a heuristic for the constrained two-dimensional cutting problem in which a guillotine divides a plate into rectangular pieces. The objective of the proposed heuristic is to maximize the pattern value (that is, the total value of the pieces produced from the plate) while observing the constraint that the number produced of a piece can not exceed the demand for that piece. The algorithm uses a simple recursion approach to consider a set of cutting patterns with specified geometric features, and uses a bound technique to discard unpromising branches. It can give solutions competitive with those of other heuristic algorithms. Its solutions to some benchmark instances are better than those currently reported in the literature.
Coexistence of anti-RNA polymerase III and anti-U1RNP antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: two cases without features of scleroderma
Authors: Satoh M , Vazquez-Del Mercado M , Krzyszczak ME , Li Y , Ceribelli A , Burlingame RW , Webb TT , Sobel ES , Reeves WH , Chan EKL
Published: October 2011

Anti-RNA polymerase III (RNAP III) antibodies are highly specific for scleroderma (SSc) and associated with diffuse SSc and renal crisis. Coexistence of anti-RNAP III and other SSc autoantibodies is rarely documented. We report three cases with coexisting anti-RNAP III and anti-U1RNP. Autoantibodies in 3829 sera from rheumatology clinics were screened by immunoprecipitation. Anti-RNAP III-positive sera were also examined by immunofluorescence and anti-RNAP III ELISA. In total, 35 anti-RNAP III-positive sera were identified by immunoprecipitation, in which three had coexisting anti-U1RNP. All three were anti-RNAP III ELISA positive. Two had anti-RNAP I dominant (vs. RNAP III) reactivity and showed strong nucleolar staining. A case with anti-U1/U2RNP (U2RNP dominant) had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)–SSc overlap syndrome; however, the remaining two cases had SLE without signs of SSc. All three cases of anti-RNAP III + U1RNP fulfilled ACR SLE criteria but none in the group with anti-RNAP III alone ( p = 0.0002). In contrast, only one case in the former group had sclerodermatous skin changes and Raynaud's phenomenon, vs. 92% with scleroderma in the latter ( p < 0.05). Although anti-RNAP III is highly specific for SSc, cases with coexisting anti-U1RNP are not so uncommon among anti-RNAP III positives (8%, 3/35) and may be SLE without features of SSc.
A frequentist approach to estimating the force of infection for a respiratory disease using repeated measurement data from a birth cohort
Authors: Mwambi H , Ramroop S , White LJ , Okiro EA , Nokes DJ , Shkedy Z , Molenberghs G
Published: October 2011

This article aims to develop a probability-based model involving the use of direct likelihood formulation and generalised linear modelling (GLM) approaches useful in estimating important disease parameters from longitudinal or repeated measurement data. The current application is based on infection with respiratory syncytial virus. The force of infection and the recovery rate or per capita loss of infection are the parameters of interest. However, because of the limitation arising from the study design and subsequently, the data generated only the force of infection is estimable. The problem of dealing with time-varying disease parameters is also addressed in the article by fitting piecewise constant parameters over time via the GLM approach. The current model formulation is based on that published in White LJ, Buttery J, Cooper B, Nokes DJ and Medley GF. Rotavirus within day care centres in Oxfordshire, UK: characterization of partial immunity. Journal of Royal Society Interface 2008; 5: 1481—1490 with an application to rotavirus transmission and immunity.
Change point detection in risk adjusted control charts
Authors: Assareh Hassan , Smith Ian , Mengersen Kerrie
Published: October 2011

Precise identification of the time when a change in a clinical process has occurred enables experts to identify a potential special cause more effectively. In this article, we develop change point estimation methods for a clinical dichotomous process in the presence of case mix. We apply Bayesian hierarchical models to formulate the change point where there exists a step change in the odds ratio and logit of risk of a Bernoulli process. Markov Chain Monte Carlo is used to obtain posterior distributions of the change point parameters including location and magnitude of changes and also corresponding probabilistic intervals and inferences. The performance of the Bayesian estimator is investigated through simulations and the result shows that precise estimates can be obtained when they are used in conjunction with the risk-adjusted CUSUM and EWMA control charts. In comparison with alternative EWMA and CUSUM estimators, more accurate and precise estimates are obtained by the Bayesian estimator. These superiorities enhance when probability quantification, flexibility and generaliability of the Bayesian change point detection model are also considered. The Deviance Information Criterion, as a model selection criterion in the Bayesian context, is applied to find the best change point model for a given dataset where there is no prior knowledge about the change type in the process.
The spiral of scientific culture and cultural well-being: Brazil and Ibero-America
Authors: Vogt Carlos
Published: October 2011

The set of factors, events and actions of mankind in the social processes dedicated to the production the dissemination, the teaching and the publication of scientific knowledge constitutes the conditions for the development of a particular type of culture, quite commonplace in the contemporary world, which may be called scientific culture. In this article, we intend to present the representation of the dynamics of this area of knowledge in the form of a spiral: The Spiral of Scientific Culture. Also, we introduce the term cultural well-being – the kind of comfort, other than the social well-being, which has to do with society’s relationships with the technosciences, involving values and attitudes, habits and information, and presupposing an actively critical participation on the part of that society in the totality of these relationships.
Multiple cutaneous mast cell tumors in a pig
Authors: Martínez Jorge , Martínez Vicente , Grau-Roma Llorenç , López Javier , Segalés Joaquim
Published: October 2011

Cutaneous tumors are not usually observed in pigs, and mast cell tumors, in particular, have been rarely described. The current report describes numerous, pink to red, elevated, 1–5-cm nodules in the skin of a 6-month-old slaughter pig. The histopathology of the nodules revealed well-demarcated, but poorly differentiated, populations of round cells that extended from the dermis into subcutaneous tissues. The presence of eosinophils and the observation, at high magnification, of cells with cytoplasmic metachromatic granules, after toluidine blue staining, confirmed the diagnosis of multiple cutaneous mast cell tumors.
On the dynamic behavior of piezoelectric active repair by the boundary element method
Authors: Alaimo A. , Milazzo A. , Orlando C.
Published: October 2011

The dynamic behavior of piezoelectric active repair bonded on cracked structures is analyzed in this article. The boundary element code used to perform the simulations is implemented in the framework of piezoelectricity in order to model the coupling between the elastic and the electric fields, which represents the most important feature of piezoelectric media. The fracture mechanics problem, i.e. the crack, as well as the bonding layer between the host structure and the active patch is modeled by means of the multidomain technique provided with an interface spring model. More particularly, the spring interface model allows considering the bonding layer as a zero-thickness elastic ply characterized by normal and tangential stiffness constants. The crack is also modeled as an elastic interface characterized by vanishing stiffness. The dual reciprocity method (DRM) has been used in the present time-dependent application for the approximation of the domain inertia terms. Numerical analyses have been carried out in order to characterize the dynamic repairing mechanism of the assembled structure by means of the computation of the dynamic stress intensity factors and discussions are presented to highlight the effect of the inertial forces on the fracture mechanics behavior of the overall assembled structure.
A Screening Matrix for an Initial Line of Inquiry
Authors: Nordness Philip D. , Swain Kristine D. , Haverkost Ann
Published: October 2011

The Screening for Understanding: Initial Line of Inquiry was designed to be used in conjunction with the child study team planning process for dealing with continuous problem behaviors prior to conducting a formal functional behavioral assessment. To conduct the initial line of inquiry a one-page reproducible screening matrix was used during child study team meetings to identify variables that may be influencing a child’s behavior and to devise interventions that can be used to increase prosocial target behaviors.
Integrating Literature Circles Into a Cotaught Inclusive Classroom
Authors: Whittaker Catharine R.
Published: October 2011

Literature circles or book clubs are small, heterogeneous groups of students who have chosen to read and discuss the same book together. The research on literature circles suggests that they hold great promise for increasing students’ enjoyment of reading and honing their literacy skills. When evidence-based strategies are embedded into a literature circles framework and coteachers use multiple coteaching arrangements to teach and monitor literacy strategies, all students in an inclusive classroom can benefit. Through description and vignettes, this article explains how to introduce literature circles, manage the schedule and coteacher involvement, and provide students with guidance in the literature circles process. In addition, there are suggestions for supporting all levels of learners within a variety of coteaching configurations and evaluating student progress.
Urban Seventh Grade Students
Authors: Dowdell Elizabeth Burgess
Published: October 2011

The health of adolescents and the adults they will become can be linked to the health-related behaviors they adopt as children. To replicate a pilot study with a more culturally diverse population a descriptive, correlational study was undertaken with 379 seventh grade students. Key findings from this study include (a) students exposed or involved in violence (e.g., fighting and carrying a weapon) were more likely to report smoking cigarettes, (b) nearly a quarter (24%) of students have smoked cigarettes at some time, and (c) almost half of the students (48%) reported having at least one alcoholic drink. Middle school can be critical time in the life of an adolescent who may be faced with opportunities to experiment with and participate in health risk behaviors. School nurses, practitioners, and other health care professionals are in an ideal position to assess the type of and level of participation by an adolescent in a health risk behavior.
School-Based Interventions for Overweight and Obesity in Minority School Children
Authors: Johnson Teresa , Weed L. Diane , Touger-Decker Riva
Published: October 2011

The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity in the United States has resulted in a number of school-based health interventions. This article provides a review of research that addressed childhood overweight and obesity in minority, U.S. elementary schools. All studies reported some benefits in health behaviors and/or anthropometric measures. Effectiveness was greater when program objectives were specific, implemented across the school environments, extended into the community, and were culturally relevant. Because minority school children are disproportionately affected by overweight and obesity and poor health behaviors, and since schools may be the primary setting to address childhood overweight and obesity in communities, school nurses can be an advocate for school-based programs and facilitate success.
The Impact of the Adult–Child Relationship on School Adjustment for Children at Risk of Serious Behavior Problems
Authors: Tsai Shu-Fei , Cheney Douglas
Published: October 2011

This study investigated the effect of the adult-child relationship on students’ social outcomes, academic competence and school engagement in a two-year Tier 2 intervention, the Check, Connect and Expect program. One hundred and three students from 2nd through 5th grade, their classroom teachers, and nine school-based coaches participated in this study. Students were identified as at-risk of developing emotional and behavior problems based on Systematic Screening for Behavior Disorders (SSBD; Walker & Severson, 1992). Results indicated that teacher-reported social skills, academic competence and school engagement were negatively associated with SSBD maladaptive behaviors, and were positively associated with coach-student and teacher-student relationships. The teacher-student relationship had a major influence on students’ behavior outcomes, academic competence, and school engagement. However, the coach-student relationship only had unique effect on students’ social skill outcomes based on these data. These findings suggest that close teacher-student relationship can lead the developmental trajectory of children at risk toward positive school adjustment.
Neurological Complications of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Ullery Brant W. , Wang Grace J. , Low David , Cheung Albert T.
Published: October 2011

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has decreased the morbidity and mortality associated with open surgical repair of descending thoracic aortic diseases, but important complications unique to the procedure remain. Spinal cord ischemia and infarction is a recognized complication caused by endovascular coverage or injury to spinal cord collateral vessels. Stroke is a consequence of thromboembolism or coverage of aortic arch branch vessels with insufficient collateral circulation. Understanding the risk factors and the pathophysiology of neurological complications of TEVAR are important for the successful anesthetic and surgical management and treatment of patients undergoing endovascular procedures involving the thoracic aorta.
Difficulties in diagnosing pulmonary embolism in the obese patient: A literature review
Authors: Hawley Philip C , Hawley Miles P
Published: October 2011

Several of the signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism, such as dyspnea, tachypnea, and tachycardia, are common in the obese population, so these patients are frequently suspected of having a pulmonary embolism. Establishing an accurate diagnosis in this situation is often difficult. We performed a review of the literature examining the difficulty of diagnosing pulmonary embolism in obese patients. Several factors compromise the ability of clinicians to accurately diagnose pulmonary embolism in obese patients. When patients weigh over 350 lbs (159 kg), thoracic imaging often cannot be performed because of the weight limitations of the scanning equipment. If equipment is available that can scan these patients, image quality is often poor. The literature that is available to guide the clinician in this difficult clinical scenario is sparse. Access to radiology equipment that can image morbidly obese patients is improving, but questions about image quality remain. Further research on both imaging and outcomes is needed.
Keeping It “Reals”
Authors: George Courtney
Published: October 2011

This article argues that David Simon’s HBO series Treme engages with scholarly debates about the historical narratives of the New Orleans jazz tradition by suggesting that there is not one authentic narrative but instead many conflicting narratives. Through the characters of Antoine Batiste, Delmond Lambreaux, Davis McAlary, and Sonny and Annie, Treme questions how race and class segregation and the outsider tourist consumption of New Orleans music have affected the production and perceptions of jazz. Through these complex depictions that are both fictionalized and historicized, I argue that Treme meditates on the overall nature of authenticity as both pluralistic and subjective, while creating television performances that offer meaningful commentary about social and political narratives in post-Katrina New Orleans.
Whitewashing Diversity
Authors: Perlman Allison
Published: October 2011

This article examines the relationship between conservative discourse, racial politics, and broadcasting policy in the United States. It explores how conservative media personalities, pundits, and activists in 2009 claimed that efforts to increase broadcast diversity were, in actuality, attempts by liberals to reinstate the Fairness Doctrine—a policy that had required broadcasters to air both sides of controversial issues—through “the backdoor.” Reframing media diversity policies as masquerades to silence conservative voices, conservatives both denied the existence of barriers to participation for people of color and extended a narrative of conservative victimization. In contextualizing and analyzing the crusade against the “stealth Fairness Doctrine,” this article demonstrates how media policy discourse has operated as a site where conservative claims of injury occlude the continued existence of structural barriers to people of color and deny the importance of racial difference in the United States.
Results of a feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) for WATCH IT: a programme for obese children and adolescents
Authors: Bryant Maria , Farrin Amanda , Christie Deborah , Jebb Susan A , Cooper Ashley R , Rudolf Mary
Published: October 2011

Background In the evaluation of childhood obesity interventions, few researchers undertake a rigorous feasibility stage in which the design and procedures of the evaluation process are examined. Consequently, phase III studies often demonstrate methodological weaknesses.

Purpose Our aim was to conduct a feasibility trial of the evaluation of WATCH IT, a community obesity intervention for children and adolescents. We sought to determine an achievable recruitment rate; acceptability of randomisation, assessment procedures, and dropout rate; optimal outcome measures for the definitive trial; and a robust sample size calculation.

Method Our goal was to recruit 70 participants over 6 months, randomise them to intervention or control group, and retain participation for 12 months. Assessments were taken prior to randomisation and after 6 and 12 months. Procedures mirrored those intended for a full-scale trial, but multiple measures of similar outcomes were included as a means to determine those most appropriate for future research. Acceptability of the research and impact of the research on the programme were ascertained through interviewing participants and staff.

Results We recruited 70 participants and found that randomisation and data collection procedures were acceptable. Self-referral ( via media promotion) was more effective than professional referral. Blinding of assessors was sustained to a reasonable degree, and optimal outcome measures for a full-scale trial were identified. Estimated sample size was significantly greater than sample sized reported in published trials. There was some negative impact on the existing programme as a result of the research, a lesson for designers of future trials.

Limitations We successfully recruited socially disadvantaged families, but the majority of families were of White British nationality. The composition of the participants was an added valuable lesson, suggesting that recruitment strategies to obtain a more heterogeneous ethnic sample warrant consideration in future research.

Conclusions This study provided us with confidence that we can run a phase III multi-centre trial to test the effectiveness of WATCH IT. Importantly, it was invaluable in informing the design not only of that trial but also of future evaluations of childhood obesity treatment interventions.
Data and safety monitoring policy for National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases clinical trials
Authors: Dixon Dennis O , Weiss Susanna , Cahill Kelly , Fox Lawrence , Love Joni , McNamara James , Soto-Torres Lydia E
Published: October 2011

Background Historically, four divisions of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) that manage clinical trials and oversee data and safety monitoring have operated fairly autonomously with respect to their approaches to Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) operations. We recognized the need for a revised policy on DSMB operations in an effort to encourage greater harmonization of procedures across the four divisions.

Purpose The purpose of this article is to describe the considerations that motivated the development of the new policy, summarize current DSMB policies and ongoing harmonization efforts across the four divisions, and offer some recommendations for DSMB operations in the hope that other organizations may benefit from our experience.

Methods From 2005 to 2009, a working group undertook a review of DSMB responsibilities, policies, and operations. We analyzed and summarized the final policy document that the working group produced, gathered data describing current DSMB activities, and developed a tabular, cross-sectional overview highlighting how divisions are harmonizing their DSMB operations.

Results In 2010, there were 44 DSMBs in NIAID monitoring 169 protocols, and those DSMBs conducted 209 reviews of the protocols. Review and analysis of DSMB practices across the four divisions have led to recommendations for efficient and successful DSMB operations: adopt an inclusive approach, whereby the trial investigators assist in the process of forming and utilizing DSMBs; structures other than DSMBs can often provide many of the features of DSMBs but with greater flexibility in membership, access to interim data, and scheduling; the trial protocol should specify what safety and other concerns should trigger a DSMB review and what data should be included in prespecified reviews; present data in thoughtful and user-friendly ways that answer specific questions; allow sufficient time to plan for working with the DSMB.

Limitations We recognize that NIAID’s specific circumstances and DSMB policy may not apply to the operation of DSMBs in every organization. Nevertheless, we believe that useful lessons can be learned from our experiences and efforts toward harmonization.

Conclusions Homogeneity in DSMB operations and management has appeal as a matter of organizational policy and efficiency. Some limited flexibility, as long as it honors fundamental principles of independence, confidentiality of interim trial results, and clear lines of reporting and approval, may be appropriate on occasion. NIAID’s 2009 institute-level policy established a collective understanding of the important contribution that DSMBs make to the responsible conduct of clinical trials. Thinking will continue to evolve, leading to further policy refinements and the continued assurance of patient safety in our clinical trials.
AAV8 vector expressing IL24 efficiently suppresses tumor growth mediated by specific mechanisms in MLL/AF4-positive ALL model mice
Authors: Tamai Hayato , Miyake Koichi , Yamaguchi Hiroki , Takatori Miyuki , Dan Kazuo , Inokuchi Koiti , Shimada Takashi
Published: October 2011

Mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL)/AF4-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a common type of leukemia in infants, which is associated with a high relapse rate and poor prognosis. IL24 selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells and exerts immunomodulatory and antiangiogenic effects. We examined the effects of adeno-associated virus type 8 (AAV8) vector-mediated muscle-directed systemic gene therapy in MLL/AF4-positive ALL using IL24. In a series of in vitro studies, we examined the effects of AAV8-IL24–transduced C2C12 cell-conditioned medium. We also examined the effects of AAV8-IL24 in MLL/AF4 transgenic mice. The results revealed the effects of AAV8-IL24 in MLL/AF4-positive ALL both in vitro and in vivo. With regard to the mechanism of therapy using AAV8-IL24 in MLL/AF4-positive ALL, we demonstrated the antiangiogenicity and effects on the ER stress pathway and unreported pathways through inhibition of S100A6 and HOXA9, which is specific to MLL/AF4-positive ALL. Inhibition of S100A6 by IL24 was dependent on TNF-α and induced acetylation of p53 followed by activation of the caspase 8–caspase 3 apoptotic pathway. Inhibition of HOXA9 by IL24, which was independent of TNF-α, induced MEIS1 activation followed by activation of the caspase 8–caspase 3 apoptotic pathway. Thus, gene therapy using AAV8-IL24 is a promising treatment for MLL/AF4-positive ALL.
The association between residential area characteristics and mental health outcomes among men and women in Belgium
Authors: Pattyn Elise , Van Praag Lore , Verhaeghe Mieke , Levecque Katia , Bracke Piet
Published: October 2011

Aim

Recently, interest has grown in the association between contextual factors and health outcomes. This study questions whether mental health complaints vary according to the socio-economic characteristics of the residential area where people live. The gender-specific patterns are studied.

Methods

Complaints of depression and generalized anxiety were measured by means of the relevant subscales of the Symptoms Checklist 90-Revised. Multilevel models were estimated with PASW statistics 18, based on a unique dataset, constructed by merging data from the Belgian Health Interview Surveys from 2001 and 2004 with data from 264 municipalities derived from Statistics Belgium and the General Socio-Economic Survey.

Main findings

The results of this exploratory study indicate that the local unemployment rate is associated with complaints of depression among women.

Conclusion

This study suggests that policy should approach the male and female population differently when implementing mental health prevention campaigns.
Systemic remodeling of the redox regulatory network due to RNAi perturbations of glutaredoxin 1, thioredoxin 1, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
Authors: Kippner Linda E , Finn Nnenna A , Shukla Shreya , Kemp Melissa L
Published: October 2011

Background

Cellular clearance of reactive oxygen species is dependent on a network of tightly coupled redox enzymes; this network rapidly adapts to oxidative conditions such as aging, viral entry, or inflammation. Current widespread use of shRNA as a means to perturb specific redox couples may be misinterpreted if the targeted effects are not monitored in the context of potential global remodeling of the redox enzyme network.

Results

Stable cell lines containing shRNA targets for glutaredoxin 1, thioredoxin 1, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were generated in order to examine the changes in expression associated with altering cytosolic redox couples. A qRT PCR array revealed systemic off-target effects of altered antioxidant capacity and reactive oxygen species formation. Empty lentiviral particles generated numerous enzyme expression changes in comparison to uninfected cells, indicating an alteration in antioxidant capacity irrespective of a shRNA target. Of the three redox couples perturbed, glutaredoxin 1, attenuation produced the most numerous off-target effects with 10/28 genes assayed showing statistically significant changes. A multivariate analysis extracted strong co-variance between glutaredoxin 1 and peroxiredoxin 2 which was subsequently experimentally verified. Computational modeling of the peroxide clearance dynamics associated with the remodeling of the redox network indicated that the compromised antioxidant capacity compared across the knockdown cell lines was unequally affected by the changes in expression of off-target proteins.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that targeted reduction of redox enzyme expression leads to widespread changes in off-target protein expression, changes that are well-insulated between sub-cellular compartments, but compensatory in both the production of and protection against intracellular reactive oxygen species. Our observations suggest that the use of lentivirus can in itself have off-target effects on dynamic responses to oxidative stress due to the changes in species concentrations.
Quantification of the whole-body burden of radiographic osteoarthritis using factor analysis
Authors: Nelson Amanda E , DeVellis Robert F , Renner Jordan B , Schwartz Todd A , Conaghan Philip G , Kraus Virginia B , Jordan Joanne M
Published: October 2011

Introduction

Although osteoarthritis (OA) commonly involves multiple joints, no widely accepted method for quantifying whole-body OA burden exists. Therefore, our aim was to apply factor analytic methods to radiographic OA (rOA) grades across multiple joint sites, representing both presence and severity, to quantify the burden of rOA.

Methods

We used cross-sectional data from the Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project. The sample (n = 2092) had a mean age of 65 ± 11 years, body mass index (BMI) 31 ± 7 kg/m2, with 33% men and 34% African Americans. A single expert reader (intra-rater κ = 0.89) provided radiographic grades based on standard atlases for the hands (30 joints, including bilateral distal and proximal interphalangeal [IP], thumb IP, metacarpophalangeal [MCP] and carpometacarpal [CMC] joints), knees (patellofemoral and tibiofemoral, 4 joints), hips (2 joints), and spine (5 levels [L1/2 to L5/S1]). All grades were entered into an exploratory common factor analysis as continuous variables. Stratified factor analyses were used to look for differences by gender, race, age, and cohort subgroups.

Results

Four factors were identified as follows: IP/CMC factor (20 joints), MCP factor (8 joints), Knee factor (4 joints), Spine factor (5 levels). These factors had high internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α range 0.80 to 0.95), were not collapsible into a single factor, and had moderate between-factor correlations (Pearson correlation coefficient r = 0.24 to 0.44). There were no major differences in factor structure when stratified by subgroup.

Conclusions

The 4 factors obtained in this analysis indicate that the variables contained within each factor share an underlying cause, but the 4 factors are distinct, suggesting that combining these joint sites into one overall measure is not appropriate. Using such factors to reflect multi-joint rOA in statistical models can reduce the number of variables needed and increase precision.
Type III neuregulin 1 regulates pathfinding of sensory axons in the developing spinal cord and periphery
Authors: Hancock Melissa L. , Nowakowski Dan W. , Role Lorna W. , Talmage David A. , Flanagan John G.
Published: October 2011

Sensory axons must develop appropriate connections with both central and peripheral targets. Whereas the peripheral cues have provided a classic model for neuron survival and guidance, less is known about the central cues or the coordination of central and peripheral connectivity. Here we find that type III Nrg1, in addition to its known effect on neuron survival, regulates axon pathfinding. In type III Nrg1–/– mice, death of TrkA+ nociceptive/thermoreceptive neurons was increased, and could be rescued by Bax elimination. In the Bax and type III Nrg1 double mutants, axon pathfinding abnormalities were seen for TrkA+ neurons both in cutaneous peripheral targets and in spinal cord central targets. Axon guidance phenotypes in the spinal cord included penetration of axons into ventral regions from which they would normally be repelled by Sema3A. Accordingly, sensory neurons from type III Nrg1–/– mice were unresponsive to the repellent effects of Sema3A in vitro, which might account, at least in part, for the central projection phenotype, and demonstrates an effect of type III Nrg1 on guidance cue responsiveness in neurons. Moreover, stimulation of type III Nrg1 back-signaling in cultured sensory neurons was found to regulate axonal levels of the Sema3A receptor neuropilin 1. These results reveal a molecular mechanism whereby type III Nrg1 signaling can regulate the responsiveness of neurons to a guidance cue, and show that type III Nrg1 is required for normal sensory neuron survival and axon pathfinding in both central and peripheral targets.
Intermediation Reduces Punishment (and Reward)
Authors: Coffman Lucas C
Published: October 2011

This paper shows moral decision making is not well predicted by the overall fairness of an act but rather by the fairness of the consequences that follow directly. In laboratory experiments, third-party punishment for keeping money from a poorer player decreases when an intermediary actor is included in the transaction. This is true for completely passive intermediaries, even though intermediation decreases the payout of the poorest player and hurts equity, and because intermediation distances the transgressor from the outcome. A separate study shows rewards of charitable giving decrease when the saliency of an intermediary is increased. (JEL A13, D63, D64)