bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunomodulatory Effects of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium on Both Murine and Human Mitogen-Activated T Cells
Authors: Li Chia-Yang , Lin Hung-Chih , Lai Chih-Ho , Lu John Jenn-Yenn , Wu Shu-Fen , Fang Shih-Hua
Published: May 2011

Background: Beneficial effects of probiotics have been reported for patients with allergic diseases and intestinal disorders. There is increasing interest in studying the role of different strains or combined probiotic administration on immunoregulation. In this study, we investigated whether probiotics modulate the immune response through regulating T cell proliferation and differentiation. Methods: We examined the effect of probiotic I (a combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidus) and probiotic II (a combination of L. acidophilus and B. infantis) on cell survival and proliferation, the progression of the cell cycle, and the production of Th1/Th2 cytokines by mitogen-stimulated murine spleen cells and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Results: Our experimental results showed that high concentrations (≧1 × 106 CFU/ml) of probiotic I or II inhibited mitogen-induced cell proliferation and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 stage in both mitogen-stimulated spleen cells and PBMCs. In the results of low concentrations (<1 × 106 CFU/ml), probiotic I or II enhanced the production of IFN-γ but inhibited the production of IL-4. Our results indicated that high concentrations of probiotic I or II treatment could attenuate mitogen-induced overactive immune responses. On the other hand, low concentrations of probiotic I or II treatment could promote a shift in the Th1/Th2 balance toward Th1-skewed immunity. Conclusion: Dose selection is an important issue for probiotic studies. Our results indicated that probiotics have beneficial effects on regulating T cell-mediated immune responses by attenuating mitogen-induced overactive immune responses and promoting Th1 immune responses.
Two Newly Identified Cat Allergens: The von Ebner Gland Protein Fel d 7 and the Latherin-Like Protein Fel d 8
Authors: Smith W. , O’Neil S.E. , Hales B.J. , Chai T.L.Y. , Hazell L.A. , Tanyaratsrisakul S. , Piboonpocanum S. , Thomas W.R.
Published: May 2011

Introduction: Characterization of the complete IgE binding spectrum of cat allergens is important for the development of improved diagnosis and effective immunotherapeutics. While Fel d 1 remains unchallenged as the major cat allergen, we now report the isolation of two new allergens capable of binding similar concentrations of IgE in the allergic sera of some individuals. Materials and Methods: Cat tongue and submandibular salivary gland cDNA libraries were screened by DNA hybridisation and IgE immunoassay. The isolated DNA fragments were sub-cloned into an E. coli expression system and the IgE reactivity was examined with human cat-allergic sera using a DELFIA IgE quantitation assay. Results: Fel d 7, an 18 kDa von Ebner gland protein Can f 1 homologue, was isolated from the tongue library. Fel d 8, a 24-kDa latherin-like protein with homology to Equ c 5, was isolated from the submandibular library. The frequency of IgE binding of cat-allergic sera to recombinant Fel d 1, 7 and 8 was 60.5, 37.6 and 19.3%, respectively. Inhibition studies indicated some IgE binding cross-reactivity between Fel d 7 and dog dander extracts. Discussion: The study reports the isolation and characterization of two new cat allergens. The isolation of these allergens provides the opportunity to determine the role that IgE binding proteins other than Fel d 1 play in cat-allergic disease. For cat-allergic individuals with moderate to mild rhinoconjunctivitis these allergens may play a more important role in the manifestation of their allergic disease.
New Strategies for Medical Management of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Asmane Irène , Céraline Jocelyn , Duclos Brigitte , Rob Lynn , Litique Valère , Barthélémy Philippe , Bergerat Jean-Pierre , Dufour Patrick , Kurtz Jean-Emmanuel
Published: May 2011

Although advanced prostate cancer patients respond very well to front-line androgen deprivation, failure to hormonal therapy most often occurs after a median time of 18–24 months. The care of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) has significantly evolved over the past decade, with the onset of first-line therapy with docetaxel. Although numerous therapy schedules have been investigated alongside docetaxel, in either first-line or salvage therapy, results were dismal. However, CRPC chemotherapy is currently evolving, with, on the one hand, new agents targeting androgen metabolism and, on the other hand, significant progress in chemotherapy drugs, particularly for second-line therapy. The aim of the present review is to describe the current treatments for CRPC chemotherapy alongside their challengers that might shortly become new standards. In this article, we discuss the most recent data from clinical trials to provide the reader with a comprehensive, state-of-the-art overview of CRPC chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.
Lung Transplantation and Lung Cancer: Is There a Link
Authors: Verleden Geert M. , Fisher Andrew J.
Published: May 2011

Lung transplantation offers a major survival benefit in selected patients with end-stage pulmonary disease. In recent years, there is accumulating evidence of an increase in solid organ tumors and especially in primary lung cancer. There is also some anecdotal evidence that lung transplantation may be beneficial as a treatment option in some patients with lung cancer, such as the ones with extensive bronchoalveolar cell carcinoma. In this review, we analyze the literature data reporting the incidence of lung cancer after lung transplantation with its inherent risk factors, and we summarize the available data on possible treatment of lung cancer by lung transplantation. Finally, bronchial epithelial chimerism as possible cause for lung cancer is discussed.
Management of Retinal Vein Occlusion – Consensus Document
Authors: Coscas Gabriel , Loewenstein Anat , Augustin Albert , Bandello Francesco , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio , Lanzetta Paolo , Monés Jordi , de Smet Marc , Soubrane Gisèle , Staurenghi Giovanni
Published: May 2011

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) can have severe consequences for the people affected by the disease, including visual loss with costly social repercussions. Currently, there is no European consensus with regard to the management of RVO. Following a careful review of the medical literature as well as the data from several clinical trials, a collaborative group of retina specialists put forth practical recommendations based on the best available scientific evidence for the clinical approach to RVO. Taking into consideration the recent advances in diagnostic tools and management options, the present document aims to provide the European ophthalmologists with guidelines for clinical practice to the benefit of their patients.
Preliminary Study on Glucose Control with an Artificial Pancreas in Postoperative Sepsis Patients
Authors: Takahashi G. , Sato N. , Matsumoto N. , Shozushima T. , Hoshikawa K. , Akitomi S. , Kikkawa T. , Onodera C. , Kojika M. , Inoue Y. , Suzuki K. , Wakabayashi G. , Endo S.
Published: May 2011

Background: Glucose control is essential to avoid hypoglycemia in postoperative patients. Aim: To conduct a preliminary examination to evaluate the feasibility of the use of an artificial pancreas for glucose control as well as the accuracy of assessment by the artificial pancreas of the insulin dose required. Subjects and Methods: Glucose control using an artificial pancreas was undertaken in 8 postoperative sepsis patients. The blood glucose level was set at 80–150 mg/dl. Blood glucose levels over time, insulin dose requirements, and occurrence of hypoglycemia (≤40 mg/dl) were recorded for each patient. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on the total insulin dose they received over the 7 days (HG, n = 4: consisting of patients who required a higher insulin dose; LG, n = 4: patients who required a lower insulin dose). The data of the 2 groups were analyzed retrospectively. Results: The blood glucose level before glucose control was 203.3 ± 9.9 mg/dl and could be controlled in all patients to within the target range. No hypoglycemia events were recorded for any of the patients. The insulin dose in the HG and LG groups was 21,824.8 ± 6,030.4 and 6,254.5 ± 3,402.3 mU/kg (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Accurate glucose control could be achieved with the artificial pancreas.
Lower Hemoglobin Correlates with Larger Stroke Volumes in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Kimberly W. Taylor , Wu Ona , Arsava E. Murat , Garg Priya , Ji Ruijun , Vangel Mark , Singhal Aneesh B. , Ay Hakan , Sorensen A. Gregory
Published: May 2011

Background: Hemoglobin tetramers are the major oxygen-carrying molecules within the blood. We hypothesized that a lower hemoglobin level and its reduced oxygen-carrying capacity would associate with larger infarction in acute ischemic stroke patients. Methods: We studied 135 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke and perfusion brain MRI. We explored the association of admission hemoglobin with initial infarct volumes on acute images and the volume of infarct expansion on follow-up images. Multivariable linear regression was performed to analyze the independent effect of hemoglobin on imaging outcomes. Results: Bivariate analyses showed a significant inverse correlation between hemoglobin and initial volume in diffusion-weighted imaging (r = –0.20, p = 0.02) and absolute infarct growth (r = –0.20, p = 0.02). Multivariable linear regression modeling revealed that hemoglobin remained independently predictive of larger infarct volumes acutely (p < 0.005) and with greater infarct expansion (p < 0.01) after adjusting for known covariates. Conclusions: Hemoglobin level at the time of acute ischemic stroke associates with larger infarcts and increased infarct growth. Clarification of the mechanism of this effect may yield novel insights for therapy.
Heterogeneity of Intramural Function in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Aletras Anthony H. , Tilak Gauri S. , Hsu Li-Yueh , Arai Andrew E.
Published: May 2011

Background—

In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), myocardial abnormalities are commonly heterogeneous. Two patterns of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) have been reported: a bright “confluent” and an intermediate intensity abnormality termed “diffuse,” each representing different degrees of myocardial scarring. We used MRI to study the relation between intramural cardiac function and the extent of fibrosis in HCM. The aim of this study was to determine whether excess collagen or myocardial scarring, as determined by LGE MRI, are the primary mechanisms leading to heterogeneous regional contractile function in patients with HCM.

Methods and Results—

Intramural left ventricular strain, transmural left ventricular function, and regions of myocardial fibrosis/scarring were imaged in 22 patients with HCM, using displacement encoding with stimulated echoes (DENSE), cine MRI, and LGE. DENSE systolic strain maps were qualitatively and quantitatively compared with LGE images. Intramural systolic strain by DENSE was significantly depressed within areas of confluent and diffuse LGE but also in the core of the most hypertrophic nonenhanced segment (all
P
<0.001 versus nonhypertrophied segments). DENSE demonstrated an unexpected inner rim of largely preserved contractile function and a noncontracting outer wall within hypertrophic segments in 91% of patients.

Conclusions—

LGE predicted some but not all of the heterogeneity of intramural contractile abnormalities. This indicates that myocardial scarring or excess interstitial collagen deposition does not fully explain the observed contractile heterogeneity in HCM. Thus, myofibril disarray or other nonfibrotic processes affect systolic function in a large number of patients with HCM.
Major Contribution of the P2Y
1
Receptor in Purinergic Regulation of TNFα-Induced Vascular Inflammation
Authors: Zerr Murielle , Hechler Béatrice , Freund Monique , Magnenat Stéphanie , Lanois Isabelle , Cazenave Jean-Pierre , Léon Catherine , Gachet Christian
Published: May 2011

Background—

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease, and extracellular nucleotides are one of the factors possibly involved in vascular inflammation. The P2Y
1
receptor for adenosine 5|o:-diphosphate has been shown to be involved in the development of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E–deficient mice. Our aim is to determine whether the endothelial P2Y
1
receptor plays a role in leukocyte recruitment during vascular inflammation and characterize underlying mechanisms.

Methods and Results—

We show here that the P2Y
1
receptor plays a role in leukocyte recruitment in inflamed mouse femoral arteries. Moreover, in wild-type bone marrow–transplanted chimeric P2Y
1
-deficient mice with an apolipoprotein E–deficient background, a strong reduction of adhesion molecule–dependent leukocyte recruitment was observed after local injection of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 1β, excluding a role for the platelet or other hematopoietic cell type P2Y
1
in these events. Similarly, the in vitro adhesion of isolated mouse monocytes to tumor necrosis factor α–stimulated murine endothelial cell monolayers and their migration across the cell layers were strongly reduced in P2Y
1
-deficient compared with wild-type endothelial cells, as was the expression of the adhesion molecules P-selectin, Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and intercellular adhesion molecule 1. Pharmacological inhibition using the selective antagonist MRS2500 also resulted in decreased expression of adhesion molecules. These events are related to the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and activating transcription factor 2 pathway. Finally, in vivo administration of MRS2500 resulted in strong reduction of leukocyte recruitment in inflamed femoral arteries of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice.

Conclusions—

The data highlight a key role of the endothelial P2Y
1
receptor in acute vascular inflammation. Pharmacological targeting the P2Y
1
receptor could represent a promising approach for the treatment of vascular inflammation.
Long-Term Complications Related to Biventricular Defibrillator Implantation
Authors: Landolina Maurizio , Gasparini Maurizio , Lunati Maurizio , Iacopino Saverio , Boriani Giuseppe , Bonanno Carlo , Vado Antonello , Proclemer Alessandro , Capucci Alessandro , Zucchiatti Chantal , Valsecchi Sergio , Ricci Renato P. , Santini Massimo
Published: May 2011

Background—

Long-term data on device-related untoward events in patients receiving defibrillators for resynchronization therapy (CRT-D) are lacking. We quantified the frequency of repeat invasive procedures and the nature of long-term complications in current clinical practice and examined possible predictors of device-related events and their association with long-term patient outcome.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed data from 3253 patients who underwent de novo successful implantation of CRT-D and were followed up for a median of 18 months (25th to 75th percentiles: 9 to 30) in 117 Italian centers. Device-related events were reported in 416 patients, and, specifically, surgical interventions for system revision were described in 390 patients. Four years after the implantation procedure, 50% of patients underwent surgical revision for battery depletion and 14% for unanticipated events. For comparison, at 4 years battery depletion occurred in 10% and 13% of patients who received single- and dual-chamber defibrillators at the study centers, and unanticipated events were reported as 4% and 9%, respectively. In CRT-D, infections occurred at a rate of 1.0%/y, and the risk of infections increased after device replacement procedures (hazard ratio, 2.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01 to 4.09;
P
=0.045). Left ventricular lead dislodgements were reported at a rate of 2.3%/y and were predicted by longer fluoroscopy time and higher pacing threshold on implantation. Device-related events were not associated with a worse clinical outcome; indeed, the risk of death was similar in patients with and without surgical revision (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.56 to 1.47;
P
=0.682).

Conclusions—

In current clinical practice device-related events are more frequent in CRT-D than in single- or dual-chamber defibrillators, and are frequently managed by surgical intervention for system revision. However, a worse clinical outcome is not associated with these events.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01007474.
Impact of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Mortality and Cardiovascular Events After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in the Community
Authors: Goel Kashish , Lennon Ryan J. , Tilbury R. Thomas , Squires Ray W. , Thomas Randal J.
Published: May 2011

Background—

Although numerous studies have reported that cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is associated with reduced mortality after myocardial infarction, less is known about its association with mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results—

We performed a retrospective analysis of data from a prospectively collected registry of 2395 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention in Olmsted County, Minnesota, from 1994 to 2008. The association of CR with all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, myocardial infarction, or revascularization was assessed with 3 statistical techniques: propensity score–matched analysis (n=1438), propensity score stratification (n=2351), and regression adjustment with propensity score in a 3-month landmark analysis (n=2009). During a median follow-up of 6.3 years, 503 deaths (199 cardiac), 394 myocardial infarctions, and 755 revascularization procedures occurred in the study subjects. Participation in CR, noted in 40% (964 of 2395) of the cohort, was associated with a significant decrease in all-cause mortality by all 3 statistical techniques (hazard ratio, 0.53 to 0.55;
P
<0.001). A trend toward decreased cardiac mortality was also observed in CR participants; however, no effect was observed for subsequent myocardial infarction or revascularization. The association between CR participation and reduced mortality rates was similar for men and women, for older and younger patients, and for patients undergoing elective or nonelective percutaneous coronary intervention.

Conclusions—

We found that CR participation after percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with a significant reduction in mortality rates. These findings add support to published clinical practice guidelines, performance measures, and insurance coverage policies that recommend CR for patients after percutaneous coronary intervention.
Childhood Growth and Adult Hypertension in a Population of High Birth Weight
Authors: Halldorsson Thorhallur Ingi , Gunnarsdottir Ingibjorg , Birgisdottir Bryndis Eva , Gudnason Vilmundur , Aspelund Thor , Thorsdottir Inga
Published: May 2011

Low birth weight has consistently been associated with increased adult blood pressure. The relative importance of childhood growth is, however, less well established. This study examined sex-specific associations between childhood growth and adult blood pressure in 2120 subjects born from 1921 to 1935 in Reykjavik who were recruited into a longitudinal study in 1967–1991. Size at birth and growth at regular intervals between 8 and 13 years were collected from national archives. Hypertensive males did not differ from normotensive males at birth but were increasingly taller and of higher body mass index between 8 and 13 years. No differences in adult height were observed between hypertensive and normotensive males. For boys, growth-velocity (change in growth per year) for body mass index and height between 8 to 13 years was positively associated (
P
<0.05) with adult blood pressure. The association for body mass index-velocity was fully accounted for by concurrent body size, whereas height-velocity was independent of birth weight and concurrent body size. Males in the highest compared with the lowest tertile in the height-velocity distribution had 66% increased risks of hypertension (95% CI: 15% to 139% increased risks of hypertension) corresponding with 5.0 mm Hg increase (95% CI: 1.5 to 8.5 mm Hg increase) and 3.1 mm Hg increase (95% CI: 1.1 to 5.0 mm Hg increase) in systolic and diastolic blood pressures, respectively. Hypertensive females weighed less at birth but did not differ markedly from normotensive girls between 8 and 13 years, and no association was observed for growth-velocity. In conclusion, rapid linear growth between 8 and 13 years predicts elevated adult blood pressure in boys. This association is likely to reflect relatively early onset of puberty among hypertensive males.
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Antibodies and Increased Angiotensin II Sensitivity in Pregnant Rats
Authors: Wenzel Katrin , Rajakumar Augustine , Haase Hannelore , Geusens Nele , Hubner Norbert , Schulz Herbert , Brewer Justin , Roberts Lyndsay , Hubel Carl A. , Herse Florian , Hering Lydia , Qadri Fatimunnisa , Lindschau Carsten , Wallukat Gerd , Pijnenborg Robert , Heidecke Harald , Riemekasten Gabriela , Luft Friedrich C. , Muller Dominik N. , Lamarca Babette , Dechend Ralf
Published: May 2011

Pregnant women who subsequently develop preeclampsia are highly sensitive to infused angiotensin (Ang) II; the sensitivity persists postpartum. Activating autoantibodies against the Ang II type 1 (AT
1
) receptor are present in preeclampsia. In vitro and in vivo data suggest that they could be involved in the disease process. We generated and purified activating antibodies against the AT
1
receptor (AT
1
-AB) by immunizing rabbits against the AFHYESQ epitope of the second extracellular loop, which is the binding epitope of endogenous activating autoantibodies against AT
1
from patients with preeclampsia. We then purified AT
1
-AB using affinity chromatography with the AFHYESQ peptide. We were able to detect AT
1
-AB both by ELISA and a functional bioassay. We then passively transferred AT
1
-AB into pregnant rats, alone or combined with Ang II. AT
1
-AB activated protein kinase C-α and extracellular-related kinase 1/2. Passive transfer of AT
1
-AB alone or Ang II (435 ng/kg per minute) infused alone did not induce a preeclampsia-like syndrome in pregnant rats. However, the combination (AT
1
-AB plus Ang II) induced hypertension, proteinuria, intrauterine growth retardation, and arteriolosclerosis in the uteroplacental unit. We next performed gene-array profiling of the uteroplacental unit and found that hypoxia-inducible factor 1α was upregulated by Ang II plus AT
1
-AB, which we then confirmed by Western blotting in villous explants. Furthermore, endothelin 1 was upregulated in endothelial cells by Ang II plus AT
1
-AB. We show that AT
1
-AB induces Ang II sensitivity. Our mechanistic study supports the existence of an “autoimmune-activating receptor” that could contribute to Ang II sensitivity and possible to preeclampsia.
Subdural Hematoma in Infants Without Accidental or Nonaccidental Injury
Authors: Ghosh Partha S. , Ghosh Debabrata
Published: May 2011

Benign external hydrocephalus (BEH) is considered a self-limiting condition in infants. Subdural hematoma (SDH) in infants without a history of trauma indicates nonaccidental injury (NAI). The authors studied whether SDH can complicate BEH without apparent trauma. Out of 45 children younger than 3 years with nontraumatic SDH, 9 (7 boys) with mean age 6 months had BEH as risk factor. Symptoms included increasing head size (8), fussiness, and irritability (3). Three had up-gaze restriction, 1 axial hypotonia, and 6 normal examination. Neuroimaging showed prominent extra-axial spaces; SDH was bilateral (6), subacute (5). Other etiological workup for SDH was negative except NAI in 1. Two required evacuation of SDH and subdural–peritoneal shunt; others managed conservatively. Development was normal in 8 on follow-up. On follow-up imaging of 8, SDH completely resolved in 3, markedly reduced in 3, and remained stable in 2. BEH is a risk factor for SDH in infants, thus not always benign.
Effects of the Core Functions of Government on the Diversity of Executive Agendas
Authors: Jennings Will , Bevan Shaun , Timmermans Arco , Breeman Gerard , Brouard Sylvain , Chaqués-Bonafont Laura , Green-Pedersen Christoffer , John Peter , Mortensen Peter B. , Palau Anna M.
Published: May 2011

The distribution of attention across issues is of fundamental importance to the political agenda and outputs of government. This article presents an issue-based theory of the diversity of governing agendas where the core functions of government—defense, international affairs, the economy, government operations, and the rule of law—are prioritized ahead of all other issues. It undertakes comparative analysis of issue diversity of the executive agenda of several European countries and the United States over the postwar period. The results offer strong evidence of the limiting effect of core issues—the economy, government operations, defense, and international affairs—on agenda diversity. This suggests not only that some issues receive more attention than others but also that some issues are attended to only at times when the agenda is more diverse. When core functions of government are high on the agenda, executives pursue a less diverse agenda—focusing the majority of their attention on fewer issues. Some issues are more equal than others in executive agenda setting.
Latino Parent Involvement and School Success
Authors: LeFevre Ann L. , Shaw Terry V.
Published: May 2011

This longitudinal study examined the effects of formal (i.e., school-based) and informal (i.e., home-based) Latino parent involvement using data from the National Educational Longitudinal Study (NELS:88). Both forms of support were significant predictors of student achievement; the impact of informal support was nearly as great as that of formal support. It was suggested that Latino students benefit from both methods of involvement, and both formal and informal parent involvement should be acknowledged and supported. This study fills a gap in the literature by discussing parent involvement as a multidimensional construct, looking at the effects of parent involvement in a sample of Latino secondary students, and viewing Latino parental involvement as a strength instead of something that is lacking.
Sink or Swim? Throw Us a Life Jacket! Novice Alternatively Certified Bilingual and Special Education Teachers Deserve Options
Authors: Casey Pat , Dunlap Karen , Brister Heather , Davidson Michele , Starrett Teresa Martin
Published: May 2011

Special education and bilingual teachers are in high demand. Many teachers in these specialization areas enter the profession via alternative certification programs, expedited routes to teacher certification. There is little research focusing on the specific support needs of novice special education and bilingual teachers from these widely varying preparation programs. Therefore, this study looks at the perceptions of novice teachers in special and bilingual education with alternative/nontraditional preservice preparation. The study used an online survey approach with Likert-type scaled items and open-ended questions.
Watershed modeling using large-scale distributed computing in Condor and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool model
Authors: Gitau Margaret W , Chiang Li-Chi , Sayeed Mohamed , Chaubey Indrajeet
Published: May 2011

Models are increasingly being used to quantify the effects of best management practices (BMPs) on water quality. While these models offer the ability to study multiple BMP scenarios, and to analyze impacts of various management decisions on watershed response, associated analyses can be very computationally intensive due to a large number of runs needed to fully capture the various uncertainties in the model outputs. There is, thus, the need to develop suitable and efficient techniques to handle such comprehensive model evaluations. We demonstrate a novel approach to accomplish a large number of model runs with Condor, a distributed high-throughput computing framework for model runs with the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. This application required more than 43,000 runs of the SWAT model to evaluate the impacts of 172 different watershed management decisions combined with weather uncertainty on water quality. The SWAT model was run in the Condor environment implemented on the TeraGrid. This framework significantly reduced the model run time from 2.5 years to 18 days and enabled us to perform comprehensive BMP analyses that may not have been possible with traditional model runs on a few desktop computers. The Condor system can be used effectively to make Monte Carlo analyses of complex watershed models requiring a large number of computational cycles.
Thin Explanations
Authors: Crothers Charles
Published: May 2011

The Oxford Handbook provides an extensive and innovative review of developments in Analytical Sociology (AS) which is a theory program which seeks to develop ‘thin explanations’ of social phenomena by understanding their micro-foundations through explicitly developed models and then tracing through the broader consequences of these actions and interactions for aggregate social patterns. The volume covers the key characteristics of this approach in terms of ontology and epistemology and then assays recent developments across over two dozen areas of application: each a particular social mechanism. Methodological approaches particularly pertinent to AS are also covered. However, some of the criticisms of the AS programme are also noted, especially its lack of attention thus far to meso-level and macro-level mechanisms.
An Extended Model Comparison Framework for Covariance and Mean Structure Models, Accommodating Multiple Groups and Latent Mixtures
Authors: Levy Roy , Hancock Gregory R.
Published: May 2011

The model comparison framework of Levy and Hancock for covariance and mean structure models is extended to treat multiple-group models, both in cases in which group membership is known and in those in which it is unknown (i.e., finite mixtures). The framework addresses questions of distinguishability as well as difference in fit of the models with respect to data, first by determining the nature of the models’ relation in terms of the families of distributions that constitute the models and then by conducting the appropriate statistical tests. In the case of latent mixtures of groups, the standard likelihood ratio theory does not apply, and a bootstrapping approach is used to facilitate the tests. Illustrations demonstrate the procedures.
Sensitivity Analysis for Contagion Effects in Social Networks
Authors: VanderWeele Tyler J.
Published: May 2011

Analyses of social network data have suggested that obesity, smoking, happiness, and loneliness all travel through social networks. Individuals exert ‘‘contagion effects’’ on one another through social ties and association. These analyses have come under critique because of the possibility that homophily from unmeasured factors may explain these statistical associations and because similar findings can be obtained when the same methodology is applied to height, acne, and headaches, for which the conclusion of contagion effects seems somewhat less plausible. The author uses sensitivity analysis techniques to assess the extent to which supposed contagion effects for obesity, smoking, happiness, and loneliness might be explained away by homophily or confounding and the extent to which the critique using analysis of data on height, acne, and headaches is relevant. Sensitivity analyses suggest that contagion effects for obesity and smoking cessation are reasonably robust to possible latent homophily or environmental confounding; those for happiness and loneliness are somewhat less so. Supposed effects for height, acne, and headaches are all easily explained away by latent homophily and confounding. The methodology that has been used in past studies for contagion effects in social networks, when used in conjunction with sensitivity analysis, may prove useful in establishing social influence for various behaviors and states. The sensitivity analysis approach can be used to address the critique of latent homophily as a possible explanation of associations interpreted as contagion effects.
Identification as a Mechanism of Narrative Persuasion
Authors: de Graaf Anneke , Hoeken Hans , Sanders José , Beentjes Johannes W. J.
Published: May 2011

To provide a causal test of identification as a mechanism of narrative persuasion, this study uses the perspective from which a story is told to manipulate identification experimentally and test effects on attitudes. In experiment 1, 120 participants read a story that was told either from the perspective of one character or another character, with both characters having opposing goals. Results showed that perspective influenced identification and story consistency of attitudes. Moreover, identification with one of the characters mediated the effect of perspective on attitudes. In experiment 2, 200 participants read a different story that was told from one of two perspectives, with both characters having opposing opinions. Results showed that identification with both characters mediated the effect of perspective on attitudes. The results of these experiments indicate that identification can be a mechanism of narrative persuasion.
Cultural Changes and Challenges in the Era of Globalization
Authors: Ghosh Biswajit
Published: May 2011

Contemporary globalization has produced many changes in our economy, society, culture, and politics. To many, the quality of resilience that Indian culture had shown earlier is slowly diminishing now. But, this article argues that globalization is not a unidirectional process and there are several contrary trajectories, which have generated opposite reactions. Hence, along with homogenization of certain aspects of Indian culture, globalization has also helped in accelerating the growth of self-consciousness and cultural identities. The growing disparities among different segments of Indian population and the resultant unevenness in the spread of a global culture also proliferates diversity. As a corollary, several aspects of our custom and tradition continue to exist side by side as there is both adoption and rejection. The process of globalization is, therefore, much broader, complex, and multifaceted. The challenge today for us is to recognize and respect plurality and multiplicity as a better model of globalized social life.
Why Liberal Capitalism Has Failed to Stimulate a Democratic Culture in Africa
Authors: Ndi Alfred
Published: May 2011

Using a critical review of selected works on Africa by prominent African intellectuals, this interdisciplinary study concludes that, contrary to Amartya Sen’s theory about the “real freedoms” that people enjoy in democratic states, these freedoms cannot be realized in Africa, because the continent’s mode of capitalism is dependent upon international finance. This system cannot function as an autonomous structure and has engendered major political contradictions in the continent’s nation-states. The capitalist ruling elites have hindered the expansion of full democratic rights in Africa by encouraging and exploiting the politics of class division. The African experience with liberal democracy indicates that Sen’s theory of development and “real freedoms” fails to take into account these contradictions as well as the religious and cultural idioms in Africa that run counter to liberal conceptions of emancipation. Achieving democracy and freedom in Africa is not merely a question of capacity building, it involves resolving difficult issues of power – particularly, in class and gender relations. The essay concludes by suggesting that there needs to be a shift away from conceptualizing development in terms of only economic factors to a new approach which combines more enlightened neoliberal capitalism with new indigenous strategies of development.
“When Are You Getting Married?” The Intergenerational Transmission of Attitudes Regarding Marital Timing and Marital Importance
Authors: Willoughby Brian J. , Carroll Jason S. , Vitas Jennifer M. , Hill Lauren M.
Published: May 2011

Using a sample of 335 young adults and their parents, this study investigated the intergenerational transmission of marital attitudes from parents to their children and how parental marital quality moderates that relationship. Results suggested that the marital attitudes of both mothers and fathers are related to the marital attitudes of their children. Parents’ marital quality had little direct impact on the marital attitudes of their young adult children but did moderate the relationship between fathers’ marital attitudes and their young adults’ marital attitudes. The association between fathers’ marital attitudes and their children’s marital attitudes increased at higher levels of marital quality.
Perceptions of Professionalism Among Nursing Faculty and Nursing Students
Authors: Akhtar-Danesh Noori , Baumann Andrea , Kolotylo Camille , Lawlor Yvonne , Tompkins Catherine , Lee Ruth
Published: May 2011

Although there is no consensus about the definition of professionalism, some generally recognized descriptors include knowledge, specialization, intellectual and individual responsibility, and well-developed group consciousness. In this study, Q-methodology was used to identify common viewpoints about professionalism held by nursing faculty and students, and four viewpoints emerged as humanists, portrayers, facilitators, and regulators. The humanists reflected the view that professional values include respect for human dignity, personal integrity, protection of patient privacy, and protection of patients from harm. The portrayers believed that professionalism is evidenced by one’s image, attire, and expression. For facilitators, professionalism not only involves standards and policies but also includes personal beliefs and values. The regulators believed that professionalism is fostered by a workplace in which suitable beliefs and standards are communicated, accepted, and implemented by its staff. The differences indicate that there may be numerous contextual variables that affect individuals’ perceptions of professionalism.
Strain distribution measurement in laminated martensitic/austenitic steel during a compression test by the electron moiré method
Authors: Kishimoto S , Tanaka Y , Yin F , Kagawa Y , Nagai K
Published: May 2011

The strain distribution in a multi-layered steel composed of brittle martensitic steel (WT-780C) and ductile austenitic steel (SUS304) during a compressive test was measured by the electron moiré method. A very fine model grid with 5 μm spacing was fabricated using electron lithography techniques on the surface of the specimen and an electron beam scan in which spaces are almost the same as those of the model grid can be used for the master grid. The difference between the amounts of secondary electrons per primary electron causes moiré fringes that consist of bright and dark parts. The spacing of the electron moiré fringe was measured, and the strain on the specimen was calculated by using the spacing of the electron moiré fringe and the spacing of the electron beam scan. The strain distribution was not uniform for each steel sheet and the boundaries. The strain near the boundary between the different steel sheets is larger than that in the SUS304 sheet and that in the WT-780C sheet.
Two Faces of the Satisfaction Mirror: A Study of Work Environment, Job Satisfaction, and Customer Satisfaction in Dutch Municipalities
Authors: Vermeeren Brenda , Kuipers Ben , Steijn Bram
Published: May 2011

During the past three decades, the performance of public organizations has become more and more of an issue. However, academic research on public administration pays relatively little attention to how organizational performance is related to work environment and human resources within organizations. In this research, work environment characteristics, job satisfaction, and customer satisfaction are studied by comparing customer satisfaction data with data on the well-being of front-office employees in 35 Dutch municipalities. The authors test their hypotheses using structural equation modeling. Contrary to what was expected, the findings indicate that the effect of job satisfaction on customer satisfaction is twofold. In organizations in which employees are more satisfied with their jobs, customers are more satisfied with the empathy of the employees, but the waiting times for services tend to increase concomitantly. In addition, findings indicate that the work environment characteristics influence job satisfaction. These results have some implications for human resource management (HRM).
Exploring the Job Satisfaction of Municipal Clerks
Authors: Gordon Victoria
Published: May 2011

Using data from a survey of municipal clerks across the United States, this research tests a model of job satisfaction for municipal employees based on research by Ellickson and Logsdon (2001). The primary hypothesis is that the model will not hold true for this subgroup of municipal employees because municipal clerks are different from other public sector employees. Clerks are different in part because their job duties and responsibilities are set out by statute, there is a great deal of autonomy, and the position is one most often held by females. To test the research hypotheses, multivariate regression analysis was employed. Results suggest that this model does not explain the variation in job satisfaction of municipal clerks across the United States as fully as the Ellickson and Logsdon’s model did in their study of municipal employees in one city.
High-Skilled Immigrants: How Satisfied Are Foreign-Born Scientists and Engineers Employed at American Universities?
Authors: Sabharwal Meghna
Published: May 2011

The growing numbers of foreign-born scholars in the academy has triggered interest in investigating the contributions made by foreign-born to the economy of the United States. However, only a handful of studies have examined the work lives of these scientists; this study is a step in that direction. The central question under investigation is “How does job satisfaction of foreign-born faculty members belonging to various citizenship categories compare with native-born citizens?” Understanding the behavior, attitudes, and satisfaction levels of foreign-born faculty members is important to retain them and not lose them to other nations or industry. After controlling for various job, organizational, personal, and cultural factors, the findings of this study indicate that foreign-born faculty members across all citizenship categories express lower job satisfaction than native-born faculty members.
Turnover Intention and Turnover Behavior
Authors: Cho Yoon Jik , Lewis Gregory B.
Published: May 2011

As the retirement wave of Baby Boomers approaches, retaining newly hired, mid-career, and retirement-eligible employees will be nearly as crucial as hiring top-quality new people. Using two large data sets on federal employees, we focus on whether human resource management (HRM) practices can affect turnover intention and whether they matter equally at all stages of the federal career. First, however, we test how well turnover intention predicts behavior using a 1% sample of the Central Personnel Data File (CPDF) and the 2005 Merit Principles Survey (MPS). Although turnover intention and behavior are correlated, they respond differently enough to demographic factors to suggest the need for caution in extrapolating the apparent impact of HRM practices from turnover intention to behavior.
Competing for Future Leaders
Authors: Ritz Adrian , Waldner Christian
Published: May 2011

Employer marketing in public administration will become one of the most important functions in the light of shrinking labor supply due to future demographic change. For a successful development of human resource selection and marketing measures, public administration needs to know more about its perception as an attractive employer and what implications employer attractiveness has for the behavioral trends of potential employees. Using data from a sample of university students, this study tests a theoretical framework of employer attractiveness. Against the background of person–organization fit theory, the results show significant differences between the importance of intrinsic and extrinsic work motives. Overall, the results support the hypothesized relationship between public service motivation and attractiveness of public sector organizations and its impact on behavioral trends like intention to apply for a job or to recommend an employer.
Greening Human Resources
Authors: Rangarajan Nandhini , Rahm Dianne
Published: May 2011

How have environmental initiatives and “going green” permeated the human resources realm? This article, through a nationwide survey, examines the extent to which cities have incorporated environmentally friendly human resource practices. Results reveal that income, education, environmental awareness and presence of preexisting successful environmental programs have an impact on technical and strategic human resource practices in U.S. cities. This article discusses the implications for public administration.
Nutrition Management for the Patient Requiring Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Doley Jennifer , Mallampalli Antara , Sandberg Michelle
Published: May 2011

Patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation are often medically complex and present with a wide range of pulmonary conditions, including neuromuscular diseases, chronic pulmonary diseases, and chronic critical illness. These patients present the nutrition support professional with many challenges. However, accurate nutrition assessment, timely and effective nutrition interventions, and careful monitoring will help patients meet their medical and nutrition goals.
Book Review: The A.S.P.E.N Pediatric Nutrition Support Core Curriculum
Authors: Pederson Annette
Published: May 2011

Corkins MR Balint J Bobo E Plogsted S Yaworski JA. The A.S.P.E.N Pediatric Nutrition Support Core Curriculum. 2010. Restruture page‐count as size[@units=“page”] 509 pp, CD included; $189.95 (A.S.P.E.N members $149.95). ISBN 987‐889622‐14‐9.
Enteral Nutrition for Older Adults in Nursing Facilities
Authors: Dorner Becky , Posthauer Mary Ellen , Friedrich Elizabeth K. , Robinson Gretchen E.
Published: May 2011

Older adults who reside in nursing facilities tend to be frail and to have multiple comorbidities, increased risk of unintended weight loss, and protein energy malnutrition. Approximately 5.8% of nursing facility residents in the United States receive enteral feedings. The prevalence is higher for residents with cognitive impairment, ranging from 18% to 34%. In cognitively impaired residents, the majority of tube feeding placements occur in the acute care setting and result in significant use of additional healthcare resources and high postinsertion mortality rates within 60 days of insertion. Nursing facilities must abide by state and federal regulations and undergo stringent survey evaluation while balancing complex decisions related to initial placement of feeding tubes. Informed choice, resident‐centered care decisions, and the role of advance directives are essential in the decision‐making process. In nursing facilities, it is often the registered dietitian who alerts the healthcare team to determine whether a feeding tube is appropriate. Once a tube is placed, healthcare practitioners must make careful decisions related to ordering, administering, and monitoring enteral nutrition (EN) delivery; adequacy of nutritional content; tolerance to feedings; monitoring for potential complications; and the possibility of return to oral feeding or, conversely, the decision to discontinue feedings. Further evidence‐based research is needed to document effectiveness, along with research to support positive outcomes for residents in nursing facilities who receive EN. Optimal care requires careful coordination and an interdisciplinary approach across the continuum of care and between caregivers within the individual nursing facility.