bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uterine and fetal blood flow indexes and fetal growth assessment after chronic estrogen suppression in the second half of baboon pregnancy
Authors: Aberdeen Graham W. , Baschat Ahmet A. , Harman Chris R. , Weiner Carl P. , Langenberg Patricia W. , Pepe Gerald J. , Albrecht Eugene D.
Published: December 2009

Although estrogen regulates important aspects of maternal cardiovascular physiology, the role of estrogen on uteroplacental and fetal blood flow is incompletely understood. This study tested the hypothesis that chronically suppressing endogenous estrogen production during the second half of baboon pregnancy alters uterine and fetal blood flow dynamics assessed by ultrasonography. Pregnant baboons were untreated or treated daily with the aromatase inhibitor letrozole or letrozole plus estradiol on days 100– 160 of gestation (term = 184 days). Blood flow dynamics were determined by Doppler ultrasonography on day 60 and longitudinally between days 110 and 160 of gestation. Letrozole decreased maternal serum estradiol and estrone concentrations by 95% ( P < 0.001). Fetal growth biometrical parameters increased ( P < 0.001) between days 110 and 160 of gestation and were similar in untreated and letrozole-treated animals. Uterine, umbilical, and fetal middle cerebral artery pulsatility index and resistance index declined ( P < 0.01) by 30–50% and uterine artery volume flow increased sixfold ( P < 0.001) between days 60 and 160, but values were similar in untreated, letrozole-treated, and letrozole plus estradiol-treated baboons. Thus uterine and fetal artery blood flow indexes, uterine artery volume flow, and fetal growth were maintained at normal levels despite chronic estrogen suppression in the second half of baboon pregnancy. This suggests that elevated levels of endogenous estrogen are not required to maintain low impedance blood flow within the uteroplacental vascular bed during the second half of nonhuman primate pregnancy.
Transforming growth factor-β modulates the expression of nitric oxide signaling enzymes in the injured developing lung and in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Bachiller Patricia R. , Nakanishi Hidehiko , Roberts Jesse D.
Published: December 2009

Nitric oxide signaling has an important role in regulating pulmonary development and function. Expression of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (PKGI), both critical mediators of nitric oxide (NO) signaling, is diminished in the injured newborn lung through unknown mechanisms. Recent studies suggest that excessive transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) activity inhibits injured newborn lung development. To explore mechanisms that regulate pulmonary NO signaling, we tested whether TGF-β decreases sGC and PKGI expression in the injured developing lung and pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC). We found that chronic oxygen-induced lung injury decreased pulmonary sGCα1and PKGI immunoreactivity in mouse pups and that exposure to a TGF-β-neutralizing antibody prevented this reduction of sGC and PKGI protein expression. In addition, TGF-β1decreased expression of NO signaling enzymes in freshly isolated pulmonary microvascular SMC/myofibroblasts, suggesting that TGF-β has a direct role in modulating NO signaling in the pup lung. Moreover, TGF-β1decreased sGC and PKGI expression in pulmonary artery and aortic SMC from adult rats and mice, suggesting a general role for TGF-β in modulating NO signaling in vascular SMC. Although other cytokines decrease sGC mRNA stability, TGF-β did not modulate sGCα1or PKGIβ mRNA turnover in vascular SMC. These studies indicate for the first time that TGF-β decreases NO signaling enzyme expression in the injured developing lung and pulmonary vascular SMC. Moreover, they suggest that TGF-β-neutralizing molecules might counteract the effects of injury on NO signaling in the newborn lung.
Muscarinic receptor-mediated bronchoconstriction is coupled to caveolae in murine airways
Authors: Schlenz Heike , Kummer Wolfgang , Jositsch Gitte , Wess Jürgen , Krasteva Gabriela
Published: December 2009

Cholinergic bronchoconstriction is mediated by M2and M3muscarinic receptors (MR). In heart and urinary bladder, MR are linked to caveolin-1 or -3, the structural proteins of caveolae. Caveolae are cholesterol-rich, omega-shaped invaginations of the plasma membrane. They provide a scaffold for multiple G protein receptors and membrane-bound enzymes, thereby orchestrating signaling into the cell interior. Hence, we hypothesized that airway MR signaling pathways are coupled to caveolae as well. To address this issue, we determined the distribution of caveolin isoforms and MR subtype M2R in murine and human airways and investigated protein-protein associations by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) analysis in immunolabeled murine tissue sections. Bronchoconstrictor responses of murine bronchi were recorded in lung-slice preparations before and after caveolae disruption by methyl-β-cyclodextrin, with efficiency of this treatment being validated by electron microscopy. KCl-induced bronchoconstriction was unaffected after treatment, demonstrating functional integrity of the smooth muscle. Caveolae disruption decreased muscarine-induced bronchoconstriction in wild-type and abolished it in M2R−/−and M3R−/−mice. Thus M2R and M3R signaling pathways require intact caveolae. Furthermore, we identified a presumed skeletal and cardiac myocyte-specific caveolin isoform, caveolin-3, in human and murine bronchial smooth muscle and found it to be associated with M2R in situ. In contrast, M2R was not associated with caveolin-1, despite an in situ association of caveolin-1 and caveolin-3 that was detected. Here, we demonstrated that M2R- and M3R-mediated bronchoconstriction is caveolae-dependent. Since caveolin-3 is directly associated with M2R, we suggest caveolin-3 as novel regulator of M2R-mediated signaling.
Role of protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 in barrier function of pulmonary endothelium
Authors: Grinnell K. L. , Casserly B. , Harrington E. O.
Published: December 2009

Pulmonary edema is mediated in part by disruption of interendothelial cell contacts. Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTP) have been shown to affect both cell-extracellular matrix and cell-cell junctions. The SH2 domain-containing nonreceptor PTP, SHP2, is involved in intercellular signaling through direct interaction with adherens junction proteins. In this study, we examined the role of SHP2 in pulmonary endothelial barrier function. Inhibition of SHP2 promoted edema formation in rat lungs and increased monolayer permeability in cultured lung endothelial cells. In addition, pulmonary endothelial cells demonstrated a decreased level of p190RhoGAP activity following inhibition of SHP2, events that were accompanied by a concomitant increase in RhoA activity. Furthermore, immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed enhanced actin stress fiber formation and diminished interendothelial staining of adherens junction complex-associated proteins upon SHP2 inhibition. Finally, immunoprecipitation and immunoblot analyses demonstrated increased tyrosine phosphorylation of VE-cadherin, β-catenin, and p190RhoGAP proteins, as well as decreased association between p120-catenin and VE-cadherin proteins. Our findings suggest that SHP2 supports basal pulmonary endothelial barrier function by coordinating the tyrosine phosphorylation profile of VE-cadherin, β-catenin, and p190RhoGAP and the activity of RhoA, signaling molecules important in adherens junction complex integrity.
Heat Shock Cognate Protein 70 Is Essential for Akt Signaling in Endothelial Function
Authors: Shiota Masayuki , Kusakabe Hiromi , Izumi Yasukatsu , Hikita Yuko , Nakao Takafumi , Funae Yoshihiko , Miura Katsuyuki , Iwao Hiroshi
Published: December 2009

Objective—

Heat shock protein 70s (Hsp70s) are molecular chaperones that protect cells from damage in response to various stress stimuli. However, the functions and mechanisms in endothelial cells (ECs) have not been examined. Herein, we investigate the role of Hsp70s, including heat shock cognate protein 70 (Hsc70), which is constitutively expressed in nonstressed cells (ie, ECs).

Methods and Results—

The Hsp70 inhibitor, KNK437, significantly decreased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)–induced cell migration and tube formation in vitro. KNK437 inhibited the phosphorylation of VEGF-induced Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In a mouse hind limb model of vascular insufficiency, intramuscular inhibition of Hsp70s attenuated collateral and capillary vessel formation. Silencing the Hsc70 gene by short interfering RNA abolished VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation and VEGF-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration and tube formation. As the molecular mechanisms, Hsc70 knockdown reduced the expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase.

Conclusion—

Collectively, Hsc70 plays a significant role in ECs via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway. Hsc70 may provide the basis for the development of new therapeutic strategies for angiogenesis.
Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein Maintains the Contractile Phenotype of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by Interacting With α
7
β
1
Integrin
Authors: Wang Li , Zheng Jingang , Du Yaoyao , Huang Yaqian , Li Jing , Liu Bo , Liu Chuan-ju , Zhu Yi , Gao Yuansheng , Xu Qingbo , Kong Wei , Wang Xian
Published: December 2009

Rational
:

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) switching from a contractile/differentiated to a synthetic/dedifferentiated phenotype has an essential role in atherosclerosis, postangioplastic restenosis and hypertension. However, how normal VSMCs maintain the differentiated state is less understood.

Objective
:

We aimed to indentify the effect of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a normal vascular extracellular matrix, on modulation of VSMCs phenotype.

Methods and Results
:

We demonstrated that COMP was associated positively with the expression of VSMC differentiation marker genes during phenotype transition. Knockdown of COMP by small interfering (si)RNA favored dedifferentiation. Conversely, adenoviral overexpression of COMP markedly suppressed platelet-derived growth factor-BB-elicited VSMC dedifferentiation, characterized by altered VSMC morphology, actin fiber organization, focal adhesion assembly, and the expression of phenotype-dependent markers. Whereas α
7
integrin coimmunoprecipitated with COMP in normal rat VSMCs and vessels, neutralizing antibody or siRNA against α
7
integrin inhibited VSMC adhesion to COMP, which indicated that α
7
β
1
integrin is a potential receptor for COMP. As well, blocking or interference by siRNA of α
7
integrin completely abolished the effect of COMP on conserving the contractile phenotype. In accordance, ectopic adenoviral overexpression of COMP greatly retarded VSMC phenotype switching, rescued contractility of carotid artery ring, and inhibited neointima formation in balloon-injured rats.

Conclusions
:

Our data suggest that COMP is essential for maintaining a VSMC contractile phenotype and the protective effects of COMP are mainly mediated through interaction with α
7
β
1
integrin. Investigations to identify the factors affecting the expression and integrity of COMP may provide a novel therapeutic target for vascular disorders.
Using Prevention Science to Promote Children’s Mental Health: The Founding of the Missouri Prevention Center
Authors: Herman Keith C. , Reinke Wendy M. , Stormont Melissa , Puri Rohini , Agarwal Geetika
Published: December 2009

Decades of research have demonstrated, now convincingly, that emotional and behavioral syndromes and many of their antecedent risks can be prevented. Much of this progress can be traced to the founding and expansion of the relatively young field called prevention science, an interdisciplinary field that emerged in the early 1990s to address the need for an integrated model for prevention-related research. The present article is intended to provide a specific example of prevention science in action for counseling psychologists. To illustrate key preventive science principles, the authors describe the formation and activities of the Missouri Prevention Center, a program that uses prevention science to promote children’s mental health. In particular, the authors use research produced by the center to highlight the various phases of prevention intervention research. They conclude with implications for counseling psychologists.
Differential Relationships Between WISC-IV and WIAT-II Scales: An Evaluation of Potentially Moderating Child Demographics
Authors: Konold Timothy R. , Canivez Gary L.
Published: December 2009

Considerable debate exists regarding the accuracy of intelligence tests with members of different groups. This study investigated differential predictive validity of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Fourth Edition. Participants from the WISC-IV—WIAT-II standardization linking sample ( N = 550) ranged in age from 6 through 16 years ( M = 11.6, SD = 3.2) and varied by the demographic variables of gender, race/ethnicity (Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic), and parent education level (8-11, 12, 13-15, and 16 years). Full Scale IQ and General Ability Index scores from the WISC-IV were used to predict scores on Mathematics, Oral Language, Reading, Written Language, and the total composite on the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test—Second Edition. Differences in prediction were evaluated between demographic subgroups via Potthoff’s technique. Of the 30 simultaneous tests, 25 revealed no statistically significant between group differences. The remaining statistically significant differences were found to have little practical or clinical influence when effect size estimates were considered. Results are discussed in the context of other ability measures that were previously investigated for differential validity as well as educational implications for clinicians.
Factor Structure Analysis of the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Scale on International Students
Authors: Ng Kok-Mun , Chuang Wang  , Kim Do-Hong , Bodenhorn Nancy
Published: December 2009

The authors investigated the factor structure of the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence (SSREI) scale on international students. Via confirmatory factor analysis, the authors tested the fit of the models reported by Schutte et al. and five other studies to data from 640 international students in the United States. Results show that although Gignac, Palmer, Manocha, and Stough’s modified hypothesized nested model fit the sample data, this model was not parsimonious. As a result, this study proposed a new model that also fitted the data. Results further indicate convergent and concurrent criterion-related validities and reliability of the model. The findings support the use of the modified SSREI for international students.
Initial Scale Development: Sample Size for Pilot Studies
Authors: Johanson George A. , Brooks Gordon P.
Published: December 2009

Pilot studies are often recommended by scholars and consultants to address a variety of issues, including preliminary scale or instrument development. Specific concerns such as item difficulty, item discrimination, internal consistency, response rates, and parameter estimation in general are all relevant. Unfortunately, there is little discussion in the extant literature of how to determine appropriate sample sizes for these types of pilot studies. This article investigates the choice of sample size for pilot studies from a perspective particularly related to instrument development. Specific recommendations are made for researchers regarding how many participants they should use in a pilot study for initial scale development.
Moderators of the curvilinear relation between extent of telecommuting and job and life satisfaction: The role of performance outcome orientation and worker type
Authors: Virick Meghna , DaSilva Nancy , Arrington Kristi
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study is to determine factors that are related to employee satisfaction with telecommuting. Recent research supports the notion of a curvilinear relation between extent of telecommuting and job satisfaction. Drawing on control theory, we find that performance outcome orientation (degree to which objective criteria are used in employee evaluation) moderates the curvilinear relation between extent of telecommuting and job satisfaction. We also find support for a curvilinear (inverted U) relation between extent of telecommuting and life satisfaction, with worker type (defined by work drive and work enjoyment) moderating that relation.
Barack Obama’s Faustian Bargain and the Fight for America’s Racial Soul
Authors: Metzler Christopher J.
Published: December 2009

This article provides the theoretical and conceptual grounding for understanding how critical race theory (CRT), as a discourse of liberation, can be used as a methodological and epistemological tool to expose the ways that race and racism affect the lives of Blacks in the United States, post-Obama. To that extent, the goal is threefold. First, CRT is adequately defined by situating it within a specific sociohistorical context. Further, an argument is presented for why there is a need for CRT in current racial discourse. In doing so, a discussion is presented of why the term postracial is meaningless as a critique. Finally, the current racial discourse in the Obama presidency is examined, including his attempt to discuss race in a nuanced way that placates Whites and panders to Blacks, some of whom are so caught up in the symbolism of his presidency that they are willing to collude with many Whites who do not want a Black president but a president who happens to be Black. But the devil is in the details. As such, the case is made that Obama’s racial bargaining—as in the metaphorical Faustian bargain—is dangerous and tantamount to a deal with the devil.
Literary Liberation of the Tibetan Past: The Alternative Voice in Alai’s Red Poppies
Authors: Baranovitch Nimrod
Published: December 2009

In 2000, the novel Red Poppies, by the Chinese-Tibetan writer Alai, won the Mao Dun Prize, China’s most prestigious literary award. Yet, to date, few have paid serious attention to the sociopolitical implications of the book, and those who have are unanimously critical, suggesting that it repeats the standard Han Chinese narrative about “Old Tibet.” This article offers a new reading of Alai’s novel, arguing that notwithstanding its many obvious overlaps with the Han Chinese narrative, the novel also contains a subtext with an alternative narrative. Identifying several references to Tibet and its history that challenge the hegemonic Han Chinese narrative, the author proposes that the main agenda in Red Poppies is to undo the hellish stigma that the Chinese government and the Han majority have attached to “Old Tibet” and the concomitant narrative about the “liberation” of Tibet by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. The author also analyzes the reasons for the multiplicity of narratives in the novel and the implications of its publication in China.
Commentary: Update on Animal Models for NTP Studies
Authors: King-Herbert Angela P. , Sills Robert C. , Bucher John R.
Published: December 2009

Based on recommendations of participants at the National Toxicology Program (NTP) workshop ‘‘Animal Models for the NTP Cancer Bioassay: Strains and Stocks—Should We Switch?’’ some modifications to the NTP rodent cancer bioassay were made. The B6C3F1 remains the mouse model used in the cancer bioassay. The use of multiple strains of mice will be explored through a new branch within the NTP, the Host Susceptibility Branch. Several rat models were evaluated; the Harlan Sprague Dawley rat is currently being used in the NTP studies.
Security Governance and Sport Mega-events: Toward an Interdisciplinary Research Agenda
Authors: Giulianotti Richard , Klauser Francisco
Published: December 2009

In the post-9/11 context, security issues have become increasingly central to the hosting of sport mega-event (SMEs). Security budgets for events like the Olympic Games now run into billions of dollars. This article seeks to advance the emerging field of SME security research in substantive and analytical terms. We identify three sets of issues and problems that are taking shape within this field: first, comparative issues in relationship to the Global North and Global South, notably given the growing number of SMEs set to be staged in the Global South; second, various risks and security strategies that are specific to different SMEs, including perceived terrorist threats, spectator violence, and broader risks associated with poverty, social divisions, and urban crime; and third, the security legacies that follow from SMEs, such as new surveillance technologies, new security-focused social policies, and security-influenced urban redevelopment. We argue that future research into SME security governance should be underpinned by a synthetic theoretical framework. This framework brings together three particular strands: first, a sociological approach that explores the _security field,_ drawing in part on Bourdieu; second, critical urban geographical theory, which contextualizes security strategies in relationship to new architectures of social control and consumption in urban settings; and third, different strands of risk theory, notably in regard to reflexive modernization, governmentality, and cultural sociological questions.
Residual household waste: from pay-per-bag to pay-per-kilogram. An evaluation study for Flanders
Authors: De Jaeger Simon
Published: December 2009

To be in line with the polluter-pays principle, an increasing number of Flemish municipalities have introduced a weight-based pricing system for residual household waste. Municipalities using this new pricing scheme are keen to ascribe decreasing waste production to the introduction of the new system. In order to evaluate the real impact of the weight-based pricing, an extension to the standard difference-in-differences evaluation techniques is proposed. The main idea is to use historical observations on waste production to determine which version of the difference-in-differences technique is most suitable to assess the impact of a policy action on waste quantities. The method is easy to apply, which makes it a very useful tool for both scientists and policy makers. Surprisingly, empirical results for Flanders indicate that, on average, municipalities using the weight-based system do not perform better than other municipalities.
Optimisation research of petroleum hydrocarbon biodegradation in weathered drilling wastes from waste pits
Authors: Steliga Teresa , Jakubowicz Piotr , Kapusta Piotr
Published: December 2009

The aim of this article is to discuss the problem of drilling waste remediation. Analyses and research showed that material stored in waste pits could be classified as soil with a high level of petroleum impurities (total petroleum hydrocarbons [TPH] = 102,417—132,472 mg kg—1 dry mass). While preparing the complex technology of soil decontamination (which included primary reclamation, basic bioremediation and inoculation with biopreparations based on indigenous bacteria and fungi), laboratory tests indicated the use of an ex-situ method was fundamental. Remediation was controlled with a chromatographic method of qualitative and quantitative determination of petroleum hydrocarbons. Based on analytical data, there was the possibility to determine the effectiveness of consecutive purifying phases. Laboratory tests, following 135 days of basic bioremediation stimulated by optimum conditions to activate the growth of indigenous micro-organisms, resulted in a decrease in the TPH content, which was in the range of 52.3—72.5%. The next phase of soil decontamination lasted 135 days and involved the use of inoculation with biopreparations based on indigenous micro-organisms and fungi. This process enabled a TPH decrease of 93.8— 94.3%. Laboratory biodegradation research was done with the use of the biomarker C30-17α(H)21β(H)-hopane to normalize analyte (TPH, Σ n-C8— n-C22 and Σ n-C23— n-C36) concentrations. The calculated first-order biodegradation constants enable estimation of the purification stage dynamics and the effectiveness of the applied biopreparations. Furthermore, they represent the biodegradation degree of individual n -alkanes in subsequent stages of the soil purification process.
The pathway of in-situ ammonium removal from aerated municipal solid waste bioreactor: nitrification/denitrification or air stripping?
Authors: Hao Yong-Jun , Min Ji  , Chen Ying-Xu , Wu Wei-Xiang , Hao Yong-Jun , Zhang Shu-Guang , Liu Han-Qiao
Published: December 2009

In-situ ammonium removal from municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill is an attractive method due to its economic advantages. In this study, two simulated MSW bioreactors with different degrees of initial bio-stabilization were utilized to investigate the effects of intermittent aeration mode and the addition of activated sludge on the removal of ammonium. The results showed that up to 90% of ammonium could be removed and the amount of NOx—N produced was less than 1% of NH4+-N removed in both reactors. The pH values increased rapidly and finally arrived at a high level of 8.5—8.8. The efficiency of ammonium removal was improved by increasing the continuous aeration time, but it was not affected by the addition of activated sludge. A portion of liquid escaped from the reactors in the form of vapour, and as high as 195—258 mg L—1 of NH4 +-N was detected in the vapour collector. According to calculation, nitrification was inhibited by the high level of free ammonia in the bioreactors. As a result, air stripping was enhanced and became the primary pathway of ammonium removal. Therefore, controlling free ammonia concentration was essential in ammonium removal from the aerated MSW bioreactor.
Exploitation of biological wastes for the production of value-added hydrolases by Streptomyces sp. MSWC1 isolated from municipal solid waste compost
Authors: Mokni-Tlili Sonia , Ben Abdelmalek Imen , Jedidi Naceur , Belghith Hafedh , Gargouri Ali , Abdennaceur Hassen , Marzouki Mohamed Nejib
Published: December 2009

Actinomycetes with the ability to degrade natural polysaccharides were isolated during a screening programme from soil, farmyard manure and municipal solid waste compost. One of the most potent isolates was identified as Streptomyces sp. MSWC1 using morphological and biochemical properties along with 16S rDNA partial sequence analysis. The highest enzyme production by Streptomyces was observed for the xylanase and chitinase activity on different carbon sources with an optimum of 12,100 IU ml—1 and 110 IU ml—1 at 3 days’ culture on 1% of xylan and chitin, respectively. To meet the demand of industry, low-cost medium is required for the production of hydrolases by Streptomyces sp. Strain MSWC1 grown on manure, compost, and a natural carbon source was used to evaluate the re-utilisation of biological wastes for the production of value-added products. Despite the presence of a high amount of toxic heavy metals in the compost, Streptomyces produced interesting enzymes that have been biochemically characterized.
Distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans in ash from different units in a municipal solid waste incinerator
Authors: Chung Tay-Lung , Liao Chiu-Jung , Chang-Chien Guo-Ping
Published: December 2009

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated- p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) are some of the major organic contaminants emitted in municipal solid waste incinerators (MSWIs). The distribution of PAHs and PCDD/Fs in different MSWI unit ashes, including bottom residue (BR), fly ash pit (FAP), fabric filter (FF), semi-dryer absorber (SDA), economizer (EC) and super heater (SH), has seldom been discussed. Average PAHs content in ash samples from BR, FAP, FF, SDA, EC and SH were found to be 0.020, 0.237, 0.234, 0.125, 0.037 and 0.034 µg TEQ g—1, respectively. In addition, the range of total emission factor from different unit ashes varied between 0.30—13.85 mg TEQ tonne—1 of waste, low molecular weight compounds (2~3-ring) being the dominant species. Furthermore, PAHs in ashes were mainly found in BR (41%) and FAP (31%). The FAP ash included 18% of PAHs coming from FF ash. On the other hand, PCDD/Fs content in BR, FAP, FF, SDA, EC and SH was found to be 0.0329, 1.1589, 1.2807, 0.1476, 0.6868 and 0.0921 ng I-TEQ g—1, respectively. PCDD/ Fs emission factors in this study ranged between 1.029—67.740 µg I-TEQ tonne—1 of waste, most PCDD/Fs being present in FAP (55%). The FAP ash included 33% of PCDD/Fs coming from FF ash. Therefore, PCDD/Fs content in FAP and FF exceeded the legal limit of 1 ng I-TEQ g —1; therefore, a solidification process is necessary before landfilling in Taiwan.
Increased Risk of Death Among Children With Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome and Infantile Spasms
Authors: Autry Andrew R. , Trevathan Edwin , Van Naarden Braun Kim , Yeargin-Allsopp Marshalyn
Published: December 2009

The magnitude and causes of death among a cohort of children with epilepsy were determined. A follow-up study with a population-based cohort of 10-year-old children in the metropolitan Atlanta area with epilepsy was conducted. The National Death Index and linkage to State of Georgia death certificates were used to identify deaths. The authors estimated the expected numbers of deaths by applying mortality rates adjusted by age, race, and sex for the entire state of Georgia to the population for the follow-up period. Among the 688 children who were in the final epilepsy cohort, 64 deaths occurred; 20.6 deaths were expected (mortality ratio adjusted for age, race, and sex = 3.11). The mortality ratios for children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and infantile spasms were 13.92 and 11.91, respectively. Children and adolescents with epilepsy, especially those with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or infantile spasms, have an increased risk of death.
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Long-Term Outcomes of Late-Onset (Type III) Multiple Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Pollard Laura M. , Williams Nolan R. , Espinoza Lesby , Wood Tim C. , Spector Elaine B. , Schroer Richard J. , Holden Kenton R.
Published: December 2009

We report 4 children with late-onset (type III) multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, also known as glutaric aciduria type II, which is an autosomal recessive disorder of fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. The underlying deficiency is in the electron transfer flavoprotein or electron flavoprotein dehydrogenase. Clinical presentations include fatal acute neonatal metabolic encephalopathies with/without organ system anomalies (types I and II) and late-onset acute metabolic crises, myopathy, or neurodevelopmental delays (type III). Two patients were identified in childhood following a metabolic crisis and/or neurodevelopmental delay, and 2 were identified by newborn metabolic screening. Our cases will illustrate the difficulty in making a biochemical diagnosis of late-onset (type III) multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency from plasma acylcarnitines and urine organic acids in both symptomatic and asymptomatic children. However, they emphasize the need for timely diagnosis to urgently implement prophylactic treatment for life-threatening metabolic crises with low protein/fat diets supplemented with riboflavin and carnitine.
Collective Efficacy in the School Context: Does It Help Explain Victimization and Bullying Among Greek Primary and Secondary School Students?
Authors: Sapouna Maria
Published: December 2009

Collective efficacy, defined as informal social controls that operate under social norms of trust, is an emerging theoretical concept that has been applied to explain violence rates in neighborhoods, affiliation with deviant peers, partner violence, and adolescent delinquency. This study employed a multilevel design to examine the association between collective efficacy at the class-level and individual-level bullying perpetration and victimization using survey data from 1,729 Greek students, aged 11 to 14 years. School class collective efficacy was defined as cohesion and trust among class members combined with their willingness to intervene in the case of aggressive or bullying incidents. Our findings indicate that individual-level victimization is more frequent in classes with lower levels of collective efficacy. We conclude that the notion of collective efficacy might also prove useful in explaining bullying involvement.
Intimate Partner Aggression Perpetrated and Sustained by Male Afghanistan, Iraq, and Vietnam Veterans With and Without Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Teten Andra L. , Schumacher Julie A. , Taft Casey T. , Stanley Melinda A. , Kent Thomas A. , Bailey Sara D. , Dunn Nancy Jo , White Donna L.
Published: December 2009

Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) consistently evidence higher rates of intimate partner aggression perpetration than veterans without PTSD, but most studies have examined rates of aggression among Vietnam veterans several years after their deployment. The primary aim of this study was to examine partner aggression among male Afghanistan or Iraq veterans who served during Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and compare this aggression to that reported by Vietnam veterans with PTSD. Three groups were recruited, OEF/OIF veterans with PTSD ( n = 27), OEF/OIF veterans without PTSD ( n = 31), and Vietnam veterans with PTSD ( n = 28). Though only a few comparisons reached significance, odds ratios suggested that male OEF/OIF veterans with PTSD were approximately 1.9 to 3.1 times more likely to perpetrate aggression toward their female partners and 1.6 to 6 times more likely to report experiencing female perpetrated aggression than the other two groups. Significant correlations among reports of violence perpetrated and sustained suggested many men may have been in mutually violent relationships. Taken together, these results suggest that partner aggression among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with PTSD may be an important treatment consideration and target for prevention.
Motivating Change in Relationships
Authors: Lambert Nathaniel M. , Fincham Frank D. , Stillman Tyler F. , Graham Steven M. , Beach Steven R.H.
Published: December 2009

The objective of the current studies was to test whether praying for a relationship partner would increase willingness to forgive that partner. In Study 1 ( N = 52), participants assigned to pray for their romantic partner reported greater willingness to forgive that partner than those who described their partner to an imagined parent. In Study 2 ( N = 67), participants were assigned to pray for a friend, pray about any topic, or think positive thoughts about a friend every day for 4 weeks. Those who prayed for their friend reported greater forgiveness for their friend than did those in the other two conditions, even when we controlled for baseline forgiveness scores. Participants who prayed for their friend also increased in selfless concern during the 4 weeks, and this variable mediated the relationship between experimental condition and increased forgiveness. Together, these studies provide an enhanced understanding of the relationship benefits of praying for a partner and begin to identify potential mediators of the effect.
1995 Feels So Close Yet So Far
Authors: Zauberman Gal , Levav Jonathan , Diehl Kristin , Bhargave Rajesh
Published: December 2009

Why does an event feel more or less distant than another event that occurred around the same time? Prior research suggests that characteristics of an event itself can affect the estimated date of its occurrence. Our work differs in that we focused on how characteristics of the time interval following an event affect people’s feelings of elapsed time (i.e., their feelings of how distant an event seems). We argue that a time interval that is punctuated by a greater number of accessible intervening events related to the target event (event markers) will make the target event feel more distant, but that unrelated intervening events will not have this effect. In three studies, we found support for the systematic effect of event markers. The effect of markers was independent of other characteristics of the event, such as its memorability, emotionality, importance, and estimated date, a result suggesting that this effect is distinct from established dating biases.
Wishful Thinking in the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election
Authors: Krizan Zlatan , Miller Jeffrey C. , Johar Omesh
Published: December 2009

In elections, political preferences are strongly linked to the expectations of the electoral winner—people usually expect their favorite candidate to win. This link could be driven by wishful thinking (a biasing influence of preferences), driven by a biasing influence of expectations on one’s wishes, or produced spuriously. To examine these competing possibilities in the 2008 U.S. presidential election, a longitudinal study assessed uncommitted young voters’ electoral expectations and preferences over four time points during the month before the election. The findings indicated clear support for wishful thinking: Over time, people’s preferences shaped their expectations, but the reverse was not the case. Moreover, these relations were larger among those more strongly identified with their political party and held even when perceptions of general candidate popularity were taken into account. Finally, changes in electoral expectations were consequential, as they shaped disappointment in the electoral results even after taking candidate preferences into account.
Mannose-binding lectin gene polymorphisms in Brazilian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Monticielo OA , Chies JAB , Mucenic T. , Rucatti GG , Júnior JMZ , da Silva GK , Glesse N. , dos Santos BP , Brenol JCT , Xavier RM
Published: December 2009

The mannose-binding lectin gene (MBL-2) has emerged as a candidate for systemic lupus erythematosus susceptibility, but studies in Brazilian population have not been conducted. To examine potential associations of mannose-binding lectin alleles G57E, G54D, IVSnt5, R52C and R52H with susceptibility to and clinical expression of systemic lupus erythematosus in southern Brazilian patients, we conducted a case—control study with 327 consecutive patients with diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus and 345 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism—polymerase chain reaction assay. A statistically significant difference in the frequencies of allele R52C was observed in European-derived systemic lupus erythematosus patients when compared with controls (9.6% vs. 3.3%, p < 0.001, odds ratio: 3.15, 95% confidence interval: 1.76—5.62, p < 0.05). The frequencies of alleles G54D and G57E were not different between European-derived systemic lupus erythematosus patients and controls. There were no differences between clinical and laboratory features in systemic lupus erythematosus patients according to the presence or absence of mannose-binding lectin allelic variants. These results support an increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus in European-derived individuals carrying allele R52C. Patients carrying this allele have an approximately three-fold higher odds ratio of developing systemic lupus erythematosus when compared with controls. Our data do not support associations between the mannose-binding lectin allelic variants studied and clinical expression of systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus (2010) 19, 280—287.
Method for Damage Assessment of Ceramics after an Impact
Authors: Krashanitsa Roman , Huiyang Luo  , Weinong Chen  , Shkarayev Sergey
Published: December 2009

An image-processing method for damage assessment of ceramics after an impact is presented in this article. The method is based on the analysis of digital gray-scale images of the damaged surfaces and consists of successive steps of image enhancement, including normalization of light intensity, rotation of the light intensity space, histogram equalization, thresholding, and determination of the parameter characterizing the density of image distortions. The method allows the use of digital images taken under imperfect lighting conditions. The method was applied for damage assessment of AD995 ceramic specimens. The specimens were subjected to a double pulse loading generated with the help of the split Hopkinson pressure bar. As evident from the analysis of experiments, the parameter density of surface image distortions correlates strongly with the amplitude of the incident strain pulse as well as with the descriptive characteristics of the deformed shape of the specimen.
Success——A Dream With an Outline: A 9-Week Program for Couples
Authors: Warren Jane , Bishop Michael A. , Morris Tanaya M.
Published: December 2009

Attachment is a core human need. A safe and rewarding emotional connection is a need and desire. With couplehood being an important part of the attachment process, success in relationships could be vital to an individual’s well-being. This article addresses four core relationship challenges, provides a brief description of diverse theoretical approaches used in couple work, identifies how therapists can affect the therapeutic alliance, and offers a theoretically integrated approach through a 9-week couples program in an outline format.
Religion as Attachment: Normative Processes and Individual Differences
Authors: Granqvist Pehr , Mikulincer Mario , Shaver Phillip R.
Published: December 2009

The authors review findings from the psychology of religion showing that believers’ perceived relationships with God meet the definitional criteria for attachment relationships. They also review evidence for associations between aspects of religion and individual differences in interpersonal attachment security and insecurity. They focus on two developmental pathways to religion. The first is a “compensation” pathway involving distress regulation in the context of insecure attachment and past experiences of insensitive caregiving. Research suggests that religion as compensation might set in motion an “earned security” process for individuals who are insecure with respect to attachment. The second is a “correspondence” pathway based on secure attachment and past experiences with sensitive caregivers who were religious. The authors also discuss conceptual limitations of a narrow religion-as-attachment model and propose a more inclusive framework that accommodates concepts such as mindfulness and “nonattachment” from nontheistic religions such as Buddhism and New Age spirituality.
Religiousness as a Cultural Adaptation of Basic Traits: A Five-Factor Model Perspective
Authors: Saroglou Vassilis
Published: December 2009

Individual differences in religiousness can be partly explained as a cultural adaptation of two basic personality traits,Agreeableness and Conscientiousness. This argument is supported by a meta-analysis of 71 samples ( N = 21,715) from 19 countries and a review of the literature on personality and religion. Beyond variations in effect magnitude as a function of moderators, the main personality characteristics of religiousness (Agreeableness and Conscientiousness) are consistent across different religious dimensions, contexts (gender, age, cohort, and country), and personality measures, models, and levels, and they seem to predict religiousness rather than be influenced by it. The copresence of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness sheds light on other explanations of religiousness, its distinctiveness from related constructs, its implications for other domains, and its adaptive functions.
How Principals and Peers Influence Teaching and Learning
Authors: Supovitz Jonathan , Sirinides Philip , May Henry
Published: December 2009

This paper examines the effects of principal leadership and peer teacher influence on teachers’ instructional practice and student learning. Using teacher survey and student achievement data from a mid-sized urban southeastern school district in the United States in 2006-2007, the study employs multilevel structural equation modeling to examine the structural relationships between student learning and theorized dimensions of principal leadership, teacher peer influence, and change in teachers’ instructional practice.The findings confirm previous empirical work and provide new contributions to research on the chain of hypothesized relationships between leadership practice and student learning. Both principal leadership and teacher peer influence were significantly associated with teachers’ instructional practices and English language arts (ELA) student learning. A major contribution of this research is the strong and significant indirect relationships which mediate education leadership and student learning. The results indicate the importance of principals work for student learning because of their indirect influence on teachers’ practices through the fostering of collaboration and communication around instruction.
Evaluating construct validity of the second version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire through analysis of differential item functioning and differential item effect
Authors: Bjorner Jakob Bue , Pejtersen Jan Hyld
Published: December 2009

Aims: To evaluate the construct validity of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire II (COPSOQ II) by means of tests for differential item functioning (DIF) and differential item effect (DIE). Methods: We used a Danish general population postal survey (n = 4,732 with 3,517 wage earners) with a one-year register based follow up for long-term sickness absence. DIF was evaluated against age, gender, education, social class, public/private sector employment, and job type using ordinal logistic regression. DIE was evaluated against job satisfaction and self-rated health (using ordinal logistic regression), against depressive symptoms, burnout, and stress (using multiple linear regression), and against long-term sick leave (using a proportional hazards model). We used a cross-validation approach to counter the risk of significant results due to multiple testing. Results: Out of 1,052 tests, we found 599 significant instances of DIF/DIE, 69 of which showed both practical and statistical significance across two independent samples. Most DIF occurred for job type (in 20 cases), while we found little DIF for age, gender, education, social class and sector. DIE seemed to pertain to particular items, which showed DIE in the same direction for several outcome variables. Discussion: The results allowed a preliminary identification of items that have a positive impact on construct validity and items that have negative impact on construct validity. These results can be used to develop better shortform measures and to improve the conceptual framework, items and scales of the COPSOQ II. Conclusions: We conclude that tests of DIF and DIE are useful for evaluating construct validity.
Impact of Forced Separation Policy on Incarcerated Postpartum Mothers
Authors: Chambers Angelina N.
Published: December 2009

The number of incarcerated women in the United States is steadily increasing with 9% giving birth while serving time. Mothers and babies are routinely separated immediately and during most of the postpartum period. This qualitative study examines the impact of this policy by exploring the nature and meaning of the mother—infant bonding experience when the mothers know separation is coming. Twelve incarcerated postpartum mothers were interviewed during the early postpartum period about their antepartum and postpartum relationships with their babies. Qualitative data analysis produced four relational themes: (a) “a love connection,” (b) “everything was great until I birthed,” (c) “feeling empty and missing a part of me,” and (d) “I don’t try to think too far in advance.” Results of this qualitative study provide information to professionals exploring gender-sensitive prison policies for the growing female population.