bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Attenuation of Mitochondrial Superoxide Dismutase 2 in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Archer Stephen L. , Marsboom Glenn , Kim Gene H. , Zhang Hannah J. , Toth Peter T. , Svensson Eric C. , Dyck Jason R.B. , Gomberg-Maitland Mardi , Thébaud Bernard , Husain Aliya N. , Cipriani Nicole , Rehman Jalees
Published: June 2010

Background—

Excessive proliferation and impaired apoptosis of pulmonary artery (PA) smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) contribute to vascular obstruction in patients and fawn-hooded rats (FHRs) with PA hypertension (PAH). Expression and activity of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD2), the major generator of H
2
O
2
, is known to be reduced in PAH; however, the mechanism and therapeutic relevance of this are unknown.

Methods and Results—

SOD2 expression in PASMCs is decreased in PAH patients and FHRs with PAH. FHR PASMCs have higher proliferation and lower apoptosis rates than Sprague-Dawley rat PASMCs. Moreover, FHR PASMCs have hyperpolarized mitochondria, low H
2
O
2
production, and reduced cytoplasmic and mitochondrial redox state. Administration of SOD2 small interfering RNA to normal PASMCs recapitulates the FHR PAH phenotype, hyperpolarizing mitochondria, decreasing H
2
O
2
, and inhibiting caspase activity. Conversely, SOD2 overexpression in FHR PASMCs or therapy with the SOD-mimetic metalloporphyrin Mn(III)tetrakis (4-benzoic acid) porphyrin (MnTBAP) reverses the hyperproliferative PAH phenotype. Importantly, SOD-mimetic therapy regresses PAH in vivo. Investigation of the SOD2 gene revealed no mutation, suggesting a possible epigenetic dysregulation. Genomic bisulfite sequencing demonstrates selective hypermethylation of a CpG island in an enhancer region of intron 2 and another in the promoter. Differential methylation occurs selectively in PAs versus aortic SMCs and is reversed by the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine, restoring both SOD2 expression and the ratio of proliferation to apoptosis. Expression of the enzymes that mediate gene methylation, DNA methyltransferases 1 and 3B, is upregulated in FHR lungs.

Conclusions—

Tissue-specific, epigenetic SOD2 deficiency initiates and sustains a heritable form of PAH by impairing redox signaling and creating a proliferative, apoptosis-resistant PASMC. SOD augmentation regresses experimental PAH. The discovery of an epigenetic component to PAH may offer new therapeutic targets.
Intrinsic Cardiac Nerve Activity and Paroxysmal Atrial Tachyarrhythmia in Ambulatory Dogs
Authors: Choi Eue-Keun , Shen Mark J. , Han Seongwook , Kim Daehyeok , Hwang Samuel , Sayfo Sameh , Piccirillo Gianfranco , Frick Kyle , Fishbein Michael C. , Hwang Chun , Lin Shien-Fong , Chen Peng-Sheng
Published: June 2010

Background—

Little is known about the relationship between intrinsic cardiac nerve activity (ICNA) and spontaneous arrhythmias in ambulatory animals.

Methods and Results—

We implanted radiotransmitters to record extrinsic cardiac nerve activity (ECNA; including stellate ganglion nerve activity and vagal nerve activity) and ICNA (including superior left ganglionated plexi nerve activity and ligament of Marshall nerve activity) in 6 ambulatory dogs. Intermittent rapid left atrial pacing was performed to induce paroxysmal atrial fibrillation or atrial tachycardia. The vast majority (94%) of ligament of Marshall nerve activity were preceded by or coactivated with ECNA (stellate ganglion nerve activity or vagal nerve activity), whereas 6% of episodes were activated alone without concomitant stellate ganglion nerve activity or vagal nerve activity. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and atrial tachycardia were invariably (100%) preceded (<5 seconds) by ICNA. Most paroxysmal atrial tachycardia events (89%) were preceded by ICNA and sympathovagal coactivation, whereas 11% were preceded by ICNA and stellate ganglion nerve activity–only activation. Most paroxysmal atrial fibrillation events were preceded only by ICNA (72%); the remaining 28% were preceded by ECNA and ICNA together. Complex fractionated atrial electrograms were observed during ICNA discharges that preceded the onset of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. Immunostaining confirmed the presence of both adrenergic and cholinergic nerve at ICNA sites.

Conclusions—

There is a significant temporal relationship between ECNA and ICNA. However, ICNA can also activate alone. All paroxysmal atrial tachycardia and atrial fibrillation episodes were invariably preceded by ICNA. These findings suggest that ICNA (either alone or in collaboration with ECNA) is an invariable trigger of paroxysmal atrial tachyarrhythmias. ICNA might contaminate local atrial electrograms, resulting in complex fractionated atrial electrogram–like activity.
Target Blood Pressure for Treatment of Isolated Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly
Authors: Ogihara Toshio , Saruta Takao , Rakugi Hiromi , Matsuoka Hiroaki , Shimamoto Kazuaki , Shimada Kazuyuki , Imai Yutaka , Kikuchi Kenjiro , Ito Sadayoshi , Eto Tanenao , Kimura Genjiro , Imaizumi Tsutomu , Takishita Shuichi , Ueshima Hirotsugu
Published: June 2010

In this prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded end point study, we aimed to establish whether strict blood pressure control (<140 mm Hg) is superior to moderate blood pressure control (≥140 mm Hg to <150 mm Hg) in reducing cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension. We divided 3260 patients aged 70 to 84 years with isolated systolic hypertension (sitting blood pressure 160 to 199 mm Hg) into 2 groups, according to strict or moderate blood pressure treatment. A composite of cardiovascular events was evaluated for ≥2 years. The strict control (1545 patients) and moderate control (1534 patients) groups were well matched (mean age: 76.1 years; mean blood pressure: 169.5/81.5 mm Hg). Median follow-up was 3.07 years. At 3 years, blood pressure reached 136.6/74.8 mm Hg and 142.0/76.5 mm Hg, respectively. The blood pressure difference between the 2 groups was 5.4/1.7 mm Hg. The overall rate of the primary composite end point was 10.6 per 1000 patient-years in the strict control group and 12.0 per 1000 patient-years in the moderate control group (hazard ratio: 0.89; [95% CI: 0.60 to 1.34];
P
=0.38). In summary, blood pressure targets of <140 mm Hg are safely achievable in relatively healthy patients ≥70 years of age with isolated systolic hypertension, although our trial was underpowered to definitively determine whether strict control was superior to less stringent blood pressure targets.
Activist Religion, Empire, and the Emergence of Modern Long-Distance Advocacy Networks
Authors: Stamatov Peter
Published: June 2010

Considering long-distance advocacy as a distinctive institution of European modernity, the article examines the genesis and history of networks engaged in political action on behalf of distant others. Ever since the beginnings of European expansion overseas in the sixteenth century, such networks have originated from a persistent pattern of radicalization of religious actors against rival networks within the context of empire. In the late eighteenth century, the very same processes led to the establishment of modern forms of long-distance advocacy, with the international movement against colonial slavery and the slave trade. Throughout, long-distance advocacy was initiated and carried out by distinctively reformist and activist religious organizations within Catholicism and Protestantism. These findings highlight the importance of religious organizations in the imperial context for the configuration of modern forms of political activism.
The Association Between Ankle-Brachial Index and Quality of Life in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Chen Li-Ching , Kuo Li-Ying , Tsao Yu-Feng , Hong Ling-Show , Wang Chin-Suey , Lee Chia-Chi , Lin Lih-Jen , Chou Che-Yi , Tsieng Yu-Hsiung
Published: June 2010

Ankle-brachial index (ABI) is an important indicator of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and PAD has a negative impact on quality of life (QOL). However, the correlation between ABI and QOL is unknown among chronic hemodialysis patients. Ankle-brachial index was measured, and WHOQOL-BRIEF (TW) questionnaire was completed. The association between ABI and QOL was analyzed using linear regression. A total of 54 chronic hemodialysis patients (mean age of 56.2 ± 14.6 years) were included. Ankle-brachial index was positively associated with QOL (r = .448, P = .001). The QOL scores were 3.1 ± 2.9 and 2.6 ± 0.4 for 37 patients with an ABI more than 0.9 and 17 patients with an ABI less than 0.9 or more than 1.3 (p < .001). In linear regression, only ABI was significantly associated with QOL scores with a β of .448 (95% CI: 0.443 to 1.55, P = .001). Ankle-brachial index is positively correlated to QOL among chronic hemodialysis patients.
Long-Term Outcome of Bifurcation Stenting With Drug-Eluting Stents
Authors: Kanei Yumiko , Nakra Navin C. , Yili Huang  , Fox John T.
Published: June 2010

There are little long-term clinical data regarding the safety and efficacy of using 2 drug-eluting stents (DESs) to treat coronary bifurcation lesions. We obtained clinical follow-up for 124 consecutive patients who underwent bifurcation stenting with 2 DESs. Major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were defined as cardiac death, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and target vessel revascularization (TVR). Sixty-four (52%) patients underwent ‘‘crush,’’ 42 (34%) patients underwent T stent, and 18 (14%) patients underwent kissing stent. Major adverse cardiac events were observed in 19 patients (17%) at 1 year: 6 (5%) AMI, 13 (12%) TVR, and no deaths, and 29 patients (26 %) at a mean follow-up of 22 months: 7 (6%) AMI, 21 (19%) TVR, and 1 (1%) death. No statistically significant risk factors for long-term MACEs were identified. It appears that treating bifurcation lesions with 2 DESs when necessary can be performed with an acceptable MACE rate.
Polymorphisms of Renin-Angiotensin System and Natriuretic Peptide Receptor A Genes in Patients of Greek Origin with a History of Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Karayannis George , Tsezou Aspasia , Giannatou Eirini , Papanikolaou Vassilios , Giamouzis Gregory , Triposkiadis Filippos
Published: June 2010

We assessed the association between (CA)n repeat polymorphism of angiotensinogen (AGT), 250 base pair (bp) insertion/deletion (I/D) of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), tetranucleotide repeat polymorphism (TCTG)n of renin (REN), (CT)n repeat polymorphism of the natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPRA) genes, and the presence and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) in Greek patients with a history of myocardial infarction (MI). A total of 158 post-MI patients referred for coronary angiography were compared with 144 controls. The SS genotype of the AGT gene was related with an increased risk for 3-vessel CAD (odds ratio [OR], 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-3.61; P = .041), whereas the SL genotype was related with a decreased risk (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.22-0.87; P = .019). Moreover, there was a trend for the SL genotype of the REN gene toward increased risk for CAD. There was a significant association between (CA)n polymorphism of the AGT gene and the extent of CAD in Greek patients with a history of MI.
A New Future for Business? Rethinking Management Theory and Business Strategy
Authors: Hahn Tobias , Kolk Ans , Winn Monika
Published: June 2010

In this introductory article, we discuss the need for a rethinking of the theoretical foundations of management and the practice of business strategy in view of a range of social, environmental and ethical challenges that highlight the limits of ‘business as usual’. Calls for a reconsideration of current approaches have come to the fore in the fields of management, accounting, marketing and finance and we briefly review them here. We then introduce the four papers included in this special issue, each of which answers previously unechoed calls from different field of business research. We highlight how each paper contributes to novel perspectives on a future for business - perspectives that more adequately reflect the challenges faced today by both the private sector and society at large. Areas for further research are indicated as well.
Managers’ understanding of workplace health promotion within small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Moore Ann , Parahoo Kader , Fleming Paul
Published: June 2010

Objective: This study aimed at exploring managers’ understanding of workplace health promotion and experiences of workplace health promotion activity within small and medium-sized enterprises.

Design: A Heideggerian interpretive phenomenological methodology was adopted.

Setting: This study was undertaken with small and medium-sized enterprise managers from a Health and Social Care Trust area of Northern Ireland.

Method: In-depth telephone interviews were carried out with a purposive sample of 18 small and medium-sized enterprise managers. Data was analysed using Benner’s strategy for data analysis.

Results: ‘Workplace health promotion as a symbiosis of health and business’ emerged as a main theme from the data. Participants considered workplace health promotion as a key means of harnessing the potential of both their business and their employees: providing protection from harm and opportunities for health improvement for employees and affording protection for the viability and reputation of the business. Participants also viewed themselves as holding a pivotal role in the development and implementation of workplace health promotion activities.

Conclusion: Strategies focussing on employee health alone as a separate entity to the business agenda are likely to be ineffective for raising awareness of workplace health promotion activity within small and medium-sized enterprises. Findings suggest an integrated ecological approach needs to be reflected within policy and practice that extends beyond the individual employee. A revised programme planning framework, based upon the work of Green and Kreuter, identifies areas that health promotion practitioners need to consider for more meaningful engagement with workplace health promotion activity by managers to take place within the small and medium-sized enterprise setting.
What factors are important in smoking cessation amongst deprived communities?
Authors: Henderson Hazel J , Memon Anjum , Lawson Kate , Jacobs Barbara , Koutsogeorgou Eleni
Published: June 2010

Objective: There is limited evidence regarding effective smoking cessation interventions in deprived communities. This study explored what factors are considered most important in smoking cessation, from the perspective of a group of NHS Stop Smoking Service users from a deprived community.

Design: A qualitative study.

Setting: A deprived community in Brighton and Hove City, Southeast England.

Methods: Fifteen adults who had used the local NHS Stop Smoking Service were recruited to the focus groups. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes regarding factors that were considered most helpful during the smoking cessation attempt.

Results: Factors deemed most important for a successful smoking cessation attempt were counsellors’ attitude and knowledge, flexibility of appointments, personalized one-to-one support including additional support between sessions, all provided in an accessible local community setting. Individuals were most likely to decide to quit smoking for health reasons, and support from family and friends was important during the quit attempt.

Conclusion: This study shows that smokers from deprived communities require more intensive, flexible and personalized support from a stop smoking service which should ideally be located in their community setting. A more innovative, tailored and less prescriptive approach to providing stop smoking services may help to improve cessation rates among smokers in deprived communities.
Partners Forever? An Empirical Study of Relational Ties in Two Small-firm Clusters
Authors: Staber Udo
Published: June 2010

Many researchers take as axiomatic the proposition that economic action in clusters is embedded in dense, durable and trust-based social networks. It is suggested here that the bias towards high-trust, enduring relations obscures the competitive dynamics of networks, even where co-operation can be identified. Drawing attention to the competitive motives underlying the construction of social networks, an investigation is made into the duration and brokering of dyadic relations in business owners’ advice networks. The analysis of 668 dyadic ties in a population of 113 small business owners in two textile and clothing clusters in Germany reveals considerable variation in the duration of social relations and the likelihood that they were formed through third-party brokers, many of whom were direct competitors creating more ephemeral links. The findings suggest that ‘marketless’ conceptions of social networks in clusters need to be balanced with a stronger concern for the role of competition in the social embeddedness of small firms.
The Dynamics of Search Engine Marketing for Tourist Destinations
Authors: Bing Pan  , Zheng Xiang  , Law Rob , Fesenmaier Daniel R.
Published: June 2010

Search engine marketing (SEM) has become an important strategic tool for online destination marketing. Because of the dynamic relationships among travelers as information searchers, search engines, and the online tourism domain, the authors argue that a new dynamic model must be developed that captures these relationships to better inform SEM practices. The goals of this paper are twofold: (1) to synthesize research related to SEM in tourism and related fields and (2) to present a model that describes the evolving dynamics in search engine marketing. The implications of the model for tourism marketing and research are discussed.
Explaining the Influence of Anger and Compassion on Negotiators’ Interaction Goals: An Assessment of Trust and Distrust as Two Distinct Mediators
Authors: Meina Liu  , Chongwei Wang
Published: June 2010

This study examined the influence of anger and compassion, two discrete emotions that differ in valence and appraisals, on negotiators’ interaction goals through trust and distrust, two related, but functionally distinct constructs. Findings showed that the influence of anger (a negative emotion with appraisal of other-person control) on perceived importance of competitively oriented goals was mediated by distrust, but not trust, whereas the influence of compassion (a positive emotion with appraisal of situational control) on perceived importance of cooperatively oriented goals was mediated by trust, but not distrust. This study not only sheds light on the process whereby anger and compassion influence negotiation performance but also supports the proposition that trust and distrust represent two distinct psychological processes that are associated with different antecedents and consequences.
Desire for Autonomy and Adolescent Delinquency
Authors: Xiaojin Chen
Published: June 2010

Leading criminological theories, including Moffitt’s adolescence-limited delinquency theory and Agnew’s general strain theory, identify adolescents’ need for autonomy as a key factor in shaping the trajectories of delinquency. Few empirical studies, however, approach it from a life course perspective. Applying latent growth curve modeling, this study uses a national longitudinal data set, Add Health, to demonstrate that there is a significant association between delinquency and the desire for autonomy. Prior cross-sectional studies, however, overestimate this linkage. In addition, the association between desire for autonomy and delinquency is offense specific, suggesting that criminology theories and future research need to consider adolescents’ developmental stages and their social environments. Finally, adolescents’ expression of negative emotions partially explains the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationship between the need for autonomy and delinquency.
Decisions, Decisions! How Judgment Policy Studies Can Integrate Macro and Micro Domains in Management Research
Authors: Priem Richard L. , Walters Bruce A. , Li Sali
Published: June 2010

An effective bridge for spanning the macro—micro divide in management studies requires strong disciplinary foundations on each side of the chasm, along with the versatility to address a range of management issues. This will likely involve simultaneous multilevel, multiparty action—response research. The authors argue that judgment policy studies are especially suited to developing the interactive multilevel context theories that are necessary to narrow the divide across multiple areas of management research. Literally millions of organization members go through judgment processes every day, on many topics, and their choices critically affect individual, group, and organizational success. The authors provide examples—using the literatures on trust, diversity climate, workplace romance, and strategy implementation—to demonstrate how judgment policy analysis methods can help narrow the macro—micro divide in each area. The authors also briefly discuss available techniques for analyzing individuals’ judgment policies and suggest other high-potential areas for future macro—micro bridge building in management, via judgment policy studies, including business ethics, entrepreneurial opportunity identification, and international management.
‘This is Our land’
Authors: Mlambo A.S.
Published: June 2010

This study seeks to trace the role of race in the evolution of the land question in Zimbabwe from Occupation to the ‘fast-track land reform programme’ of 2000 and beyond to explore the extent to which the era of colonial domination made the racialization of the land issue in the post-colonial period almost unavoidable. It contends that Mugabe’s use of race to justify the campaign to drive whites from the land from 2000 onwards was facilitated (in part) by the fact that race had always been used by the colonial authorities as a decisive factor in land acquisition and allocation throughout the colonial period and that using the alleged superiority of the white race, colonial authorities alienated African land for themselves without either negotiating with the indigenous authorities or paying for the land. Consequently, Mugabe’s charge that the land had been stolen and needed to be retaken clearly resonated with some segments of the Zimbabwean population enough to get them to actively participate in the land invasions of the time.
Historical Perspective on Zimbabwe’s Economic Performance
Authors: Makina Daniel
Published: June 2010

The paper presents a chronological unravelling of the political economy of Zimbabwe. It commences by giving an analysis of economic performance within a framework of four periods, namely, (i) the pre-independence period, (ii) the post-independence period of controls, (iii) the economic liberalization period and (iv) the economic crisis period. It proceeds to discuss the deterioration in economic performance emanating from inappropriate macroeconomic policies followed post-independence. The role of the monetary policy regime in exacer-bating macroeconomic instability is also highlighted. Furthermore, the system of governance is noted to be another significant contributory factor to economic decline. One important insight from the analysis is that the economy had been operating sub-optimally throughout the post-independence period, a factor which is often ignored in research on Zimbabwe. Furthermore, if we take into account the lacklustre performance during the pre-independence period when it was under international sanctions, Zimbabwe could be said to have had ‘five lost decades’ –the 1960s, the 1970s, the 1980s, the 1990s and the decade commencing in the year 2000.
Migraine is frequent in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A case-control study
Authors: Tjensvoll Anne B , Harboe Erna , Gøransson Lasse G , Beyer Mona K , Greve Ole J , Herigstad Anita , Kvaløy Jan T , Omdal Roald
Published: June 2010

Introduction

The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of primary headaches in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) versus healthy subjects, and to determine whether headaches in SLE are associated with MRI- or cere-brospinal fluid (CSF) abnormalitites.

Patients and methods

The case-control study included MRI- and CSF investigations. Headache was classified according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders. Depression and fatigue were measured with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) respectively.

Results

Twenty-four out of 67 SLE patients and 13 out of 67 age- and gender matched healthy subjects had migraine (36% vs 19%, P = 0.03). Nine (13%) SLE patients had migraine with aura vs 4 (6%) in healthy subjects, P = 0.14. The prevalence of tension type headache was equal (60% in patients vs 58% in controls). There was no association between migraine and SLE disease activity, biochemical or immunological markers, cerebral white matter hyperintensities, interleukin-6 in CSF, impairment of the blood-brain barrier, or intrathecal immunoglobulin production. SLE patients had higher BDI- and FSS scores compared with healthy control subjects, and SLE patients with migraine had higher BDI scores than lupus patients without migraine.

Conclusions

Migraine is more prevalent in SLE patients, associated with depression like in the general population, but not associated with disease activity or abnormalities detected on cerebral MRI, in CSF, or any SLE characteristics except from SLE photosensitivity. The inclusion of the migraine item in SLE disease activity instruments remains questionable.
Review: Toxicants in reproductive fluid and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Mishra Vineet V
Published: June 2010

Some of the physical, chemical, dietary, occupational and environmental factors are having adverse effect on human reproduction. Increasing trend in reproductive disorders in recent years at least in part might be associated with these factors. The data available suggests less success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome of parents exposed to some of the reproductive toxic chemicals as compared to parents who were not exposed to such chemicals. However, data are very meager and require more studies as some debatable data also exists. But existing positive findings encourage in advising that sub-fertile subjects, who are planning to go for the IVF, should reduce toxic exposure well in advance by adopting positive life style and work environment. Further, clinician ought to be aware of occupational and environmental exposure history of the participating couple.
Participatory Action Research for High School Students: Transforming Policy, Practice, and the Personal With Social Justice Education
Authors: Cammarota Julio , Romero Augustine
Published: June 2010

The authors discuss how participatory action research (PAR) informs the pedagogy and epistemology of the social justice education. PAR facilitates students’ engagement in their social context and acquisition of knowledge to initiate personal and social transformation. The scope of research contains knowledge about social justice issues negatively influencing the students’ experiences. This knowledge is essential for what has been described as social justice youth development in which young people participate in practices geared toward achieving an egalitarian world with safe, vibrant neighborhoods that support healthy,positive youth identities.

The article is based on program evaluation data collected for progress reports mandated by the project’s financial backers. Funding supports technical assistance provided by the university in the way of teaching students qualitative research methods. The authors’ roles involve both assisting the course instructor with teaching methodologies and collecting data for evaluative purposes. High school students in small project groups (five to six members) conduct participatory action research with the intent of transforming the personal, policies and practices.
Some Econometric Issues in Studying Nonprofit Revenue Interactions Using NCCS Data
Authors: Tinkelman Daniel , Neely Daniel G.
Published: June 2010

Several econometric issues arise in using nonprofit data. After controlling for unduly influential observations and heteroskedasticity, regression analysis performed on National Center for Charitable Statistics “digitized data” from 2001 to 2003 found mixed evidence of economically significant associations between donations and other revenue streams; regressions without these controls support different conclusions. Testing does indicate that government support sends greater quality signals than program support or investment income.
Professional Autonomy versus Political Control
Authors: Carboni Nadia
Published: June 2010

The paper is an attempt to assess the impact of New Public Management (NPM) — inspired reforms on the trade-off between bureaucratic professional autonomy and political control. It investigates the extent to which administrative reforms have affected traditional political and administrative roles, based upon an empirical account of the main changes in the Italian Senior Civil Service. The Italian central government was involved in a significant NPM reform process during the 1990s, which introduced the principle of the separation of administration and politics. The separation of politics and administration has paradoxically resulted in the search for new forms of political control and mechanisms of integration between political and bureaucratic elites. The gradual introduction of reforms combined with attempts to obtain a more responsive bureaucracy by increasing political control seems to have had a positive effect on the level of professionalisation of the Italian Senior Civil Service.
Emerging Adulthood and the Perception of Parental Depression
Authors: Kaimal Girija , Beardslee William R.
Published: June 2010

Few studies have examined children’s perceptions of parental depression. This study was a qualitative analysis of the changes in the perception of parental depression between the ages of 17 and 19 years. Archived interview narratives of 16 respondents from a longitudinal, preventive intervention study of depression in families were analyzed. The respondents were purposefully selected to represent both genders as well as higher and lower levels of family adversity. The perceptions of parental depression were found to fall into three categories: self-oriented perspectives (resistance and negativity), ambivalent perspectives, and, other-oriented perspectives (acceptance and compassion). Over time, respondents from the high-adversity families showed shifts from self-orientation to other-orientation, whereas the perspectives of respondents from low-adversity families remained unchanged. Some respondents with depression in both parents and/or siblings revealed changes in perception toward one parent but no change toward other family members with depression.
“What Happens on the Van, Stays on the Van”: The (Re)Structuring of Privacy and Disclosure Scripts on an Appalachian Mobile Health Clinic
Authors: Carmack Heather J.
Published: June 2010

Over the past two decades, mobile health clinics have emerged to address the health needs of underserved populations. Mobile clinics offer curbside care in the primary settings of people’s lives: churches, parking lots, grocery stores, and community centers. Drawing on 18 months of ethnographic fieldwork, I explore how physical and symbolic space helps shape the (re)writing of traditional health care scripts of provider—patient confidentiality and medical disclosure in a mobile clinic serving residents of 21 counties in southeastern Ohio. This analysis centered on how clinic staff members blurred the symbolic and physical space of privacy, merged personal and professional discourses, and triaged multiple patient disclosures in the face of social and spatial constraints.
Development of an Ontology-based Expert Recommendation System for Product Empirical Knowledge Consultation
Authors: Chen Yuh-Jen , Chen Yuh-Min , Wu Meng-Sheng
Published: June 2010

Product lifecycle, a knowledge-intensive process, consists mainly of market analysis, product design and process development, product manufacturing, product distribution, product in use, post-sale service, and product recycling. Performing and achieving each activity or its supply chain activities require product empirical knowledge at different levels to resolve product-related problems or make certain decisions. However, effective consultation and sharing of tacit product empirical knowledge would greatly enhance product market competitiveness. Therefore, effectively and correctly sharing product empirical knowledge from domain experts in different organizations require developing an expert recommendation system for product empirical knowledge consultation, which is priority concern for product knowledge management. This study develops an expert recommendation system for product empirical knowledge consultation by using ontology to matchmaking of the required consultative experts quickly and correctly for the product empirical knowledge requester, thus sharing required product empirical knowledge by interpersonal communication to resolve product-related problems efficiently. The tasks involved in this study include: (i) designing an expert recommendation process for product empirical knowledge consultation, (ii) developing an expert recommendation method for product empirical knowledge consultation, and (iii) implementing an expert recommendation mechanism for product empirical knowledge consultation.
Melanocortin-4 Receptor Polymorphisms in Turkish Pediatric Obese Patients
Authors: Demiralp Duygu Ozel , Berberoğlu Merih , Akar Nejat
Published: June 2010

The most common Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) missense variant Val103Ileu (rs2229616) is related to obesity. In this study, we examined the distribution of MC4R polymorphisms both in the clinical pediatric obese group and in the high/lowsocioeconomic school group. 24 probable exogene obese children without family history (group I), 66 probable familial obese children (group II), and 111 complicated obese children (group III) were included. Groups I and II obese participants were gathered in a school-based epidemiologic study and compared with 49 apparently healthy non-obese controls. Significant difference in genotype distribution was observed between the groups I and II. Val 103 Ile polymorphism was more common among group III (4.5%). Furthermore, we detected Glu 42 Lys (18.18%) polymorphism in our population, which was not previously reported. Frequency of Val 103 Ile (A) allele polymorphism was 0.75 and 2.25; Glu 42 Lys A allele polymorphism was 9.0 and 1.5, in groups II and III, respectively. None of the MC4R mutations were found in high-socioeconomic school and in control groups. Our data indicated that MC4R polymorphisms were more frequent both in clinical pediatric obese group and in low-socioeconomic school group. In addition, our data revealed that carrying the polymorphism may increase the hereditary form of obesity.
Effect of Oxidized Fibrinogen on Hemostatic System: In Vitro Study
Authors: Tetik Sermin , Kaya Kurtulus , Yardimci Turay
Published: June 2010

Standard coagulation assays were performed with control and oxidized fibrinogen (Fg), using prothrombin time (PT; 12.5 ± 0.4 vs 25 ± 0.8 seconds, P < .001) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT; 33 ± 2.5 vs 63 ± 4.7 seconds, P < .001). Fibrin clot (MA), clot formation initiation (r), and rate of clot lysis (LY30) were measured, a reflection exposure of Fg to Fe3+/ ascorbate oxidative system by thrombelastograph (TEG) analysis (0, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours, 6.2 ± 1.3 vs 5.5 ± 1.2, 4.3 ± 1.0 [P < .01], 3.9 ± 1.6, 3.2 ± 0.8, [P < .001]). Maximum amplitude level was found to be lower than control (69.1 ± 7.2 vs 67.9 ± 12.4, 64.0 ± 11.4, 60.2 ± 21.2, 42.2 ± 15.2, P < .001). The lysis rate was changed according to oxidation time between Fg exposed to Fe3+/ascorbate and control exposed to Fe 3+/ascorbate for the same treatment time (1.9 ± 0.71 vs 7 ± 0.5, 1.6 ± 0.1, 1.2 ± 0.5, 0.9 ± 1.3, P < .001). We revealed dysregulation of hemostatic system with contribution of oxidized Fg, which was in direct proportion to the intensity of Fg oxidation.
Prophylactic Fibrinogen Infusion in Cardiac Surgery Patients: Effects on Biomarkers of Coagulation, Fibrinolysis, and Platelet Function
Authors: Karlsson Martin , Ternström Lisa , Hyllner Monica , Baghaei Fariba , Skrtic Stanko , Jeppsson Anders
Published: June 2010

Objective: We have recently reported that prophylactic fibrinogen infusion reduces bleeding after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. Because fibrinogen for the first time was administered to patients without hereditary fibrinogen deficiency or ongoing bleeding, a detailed analysis of the effects of fibrinogen concentrate on biomarkers of coagulation, fibrinolysis, and platelet function was performed. Methods: Twenty CABG patients with preoperative plasma fibrinogen levels <3.8 g/L were included in a prospective study. Patients were randomized to preoperative infusion of 2 g fibrinogen concentrate (fibrinogen group) or no infusion (control group). Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time, activated clotting time, and plasma concentrations of fibrinogen, antithrombin, thrombin-antithrombin complex, prothrombin fragment 1.2, and D-dimer, thromboelastometry, platelet count, and platelet aggregometry were analyzed before and 15 minutes after infusion, and 2 and 24 hours after surgery. Results: Fifteen minutes after infusion of fibrinogen concentrate, fibrinogen plasma levels increased by 0.6 ± 0.2 g/L (P < .001 between groups), and induced minimal changes in aPTT and plasma levels of antithrombin, while remaining variables remained unchanged. After surgery, fibrinogen levels no longer differed between groups. D-dimer was significantly higher after surgery in the fibrinogen group (P = .03), while none of the other markers were statistically different between groups. Conclusions: Infusion of 2 g fibrinogen to cardiac surgery patients, without hereditary or acquired fibrinogen deficiency or ongoing bleeding, results in no or minimal changes in biomarkers reflecting coagulation and platelet function. An increased release of fibrin degradation products was detected after surgery in fibrinogen-treated patients.
A Difficult Diagnosis Case of Prolonged Thrombocytopenia With Sepsis and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Yoshika Masamichi , Komiyama Yutaka , Hirakawa Akihiko , Nakatani Toshio , Takahashi Hakuo
Published: June 2010

A 19-year-old male was admitted because of the trauma due to sepsis-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and multiple organ failure (MOF). We treated with antibiotics, danaparoid, and continuous hemodiafiltration (CHDF). Once he recovered, but after several days, he had septic shock and MOF again. With treatment, the inflammation and MOF improved but the platelet count was less than 1.0 × 10 4/μL. Because of the usage of heparin, we suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and measured the HIT antibody and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with a thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13 (ADAMTS13). Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia antibody was positive in the second sepsis but negative in the first sepsis. ADAMTS13 activity was low in both sepses. After stopping CHDF and the usage of heparin, his platelet count improved. Thrombocytopenia is the common and occasional condition for DIC. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is rare but they must be ruled out in thrombocytopenia with nontypical clinical course, and the assays for HIT antibody and ADAMTS13 activity are useful tools.
EDTA-Dependent Pseudothrombocytopenia in a Child
Authors: Akbayram Sinan , Dogan Murat , Akgun Cihangir , Caksen Hüseyin , Oner Ahmet Faik
Published: June 2010

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-dependent pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP) is the phenomenon of a spurious low platelet count due to antiplatelet antibodies that cause platelet clumping in blood anticoagulated with EDTA. The aggregation of platelets in EDTA-dependent PTCP is usually prevented by other anticoagulants, such as sodium citrate or heparin. EDTA-dependent PTCP has never been associated with hemorrhagic diathesis or platelet dysfunction. In this article, a 10-year-old boy with EDTA- and heparin-dependent PTCP is presented because of rare presentation. We report that EDTA and heparin can induce platelet clumping, and thus spuriously low platelet counts. However, aggregation of platelets was not detected in blood samples with sodium citrate, and platelet count was normal.
Dynamics of a Flexible-hub Geometrically Nonlinear Beam with a Tip Mass
Authors: Emam Samir A.
Published: June 2010

The dynamics of a flexible-hub geometrically nonlinear beam carrying a tip mass is presented. The hub-beam system is assumed to move in plane and the hub is restrained by a translational and a rotational spring. Hamilton’s principle is used to derive the equations of motion and their boundary conditions. A flexural model that takes into account the geometrical coupling between the axial and lateral deformations and ignores the axial deformation and its time derivatives is obtained. An exact solution for the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the free vibration problem is obtained. Using these mode shapes, a reduced-order model of the system is obtained using the Galerkin’s method. The dynamic response of the system using the present low-order model shows excellent agreement with the recent finite-element solutions available in the literature.
Experimental Verification of Natural Vibration Models of Steel-concrete Composite Beams
Authors: Berczyński Stefan , Wróblewski Tomasz
Published: June 2010

The article presents the results of experimental dynamic investigations of three steel-concrete composite beams. The beams differed in the stiffness of their shear connection. Steel stud connectors were used in B1 and B2 beams, whereas in B3 beam a perforated steel slat was used. The main goal of the study was to determine basic dynamic characteristics of the beams. Impulse excitation was used in the investigations. The obtained results made it possible to validate two numerical models: (i) a continuous one which was developed using the Timoshenko beam theory; (ii) a discrete one which was developed according to the rigid finite element (RFE) method. After validation of the parameters of both models it turned out that both models provide results consistent with experimental results.
Alerting, Orienting, and Executive Attention in Children With ADHD
Authors: Mullane Jennifer C. , Corkum Penny V. , Klein Raymond M. , McLaughlin Elizabeth N. , Lawrence Michael A.
Published: June 2010

Objective: This study evaluated the alerting, orienting, and executive attention abilities of children with ADHD and their typically developing (TD) peers using a modified version of the adult attention network test (ANT-I). Method: A total of 25 children with ADHD, Combined Type (ADHD-C, mean age = 9.20 years), 20 children with ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type (ADHD-I, mean age = 9.58 years), and 45 TD children (mean age = 9.41 years) matched on age and intelligence to the ADHD group completed the ANT-I. Results: As hypothesized, children with ADHD ( n = 45) displayed significantly weaker alerting and executive attention than TD children ( n = 45) but did not differ from TD children in orienting ability. Children with ADHD-C ( n = 25) did not differ from children with ADHD-I ( n = 20) on any of the three networks. Conclusions: Results supported the growing body of evidence that has found alerting and executive attention deficits in children with ADHD. (J. of Att. Dis. 2011; 15(4) 310-320)
Coexisting Disorders and Academic Achievement Among Children With ADHD
Authors: Barnard-Brak Lucy , Sulak Tracey N. , Fearon Danielle D.
Published: June 2010

Objective: ADHD is a commonly diagnosed neuropsychological disorder among school-aged children with reported high rates of coexisting or comorbid disorders. As ADHD has been associated with academic underachievement, the current study examines this association in view of the presence of coexisting disorders. The purpose of the current study is to examine the relationship between the presence of coexisting disorders and academic achievement among children with ADHD using a large, nationally representative, and community-based sample. Method: To achieve this purpose, the presence of coexisting disorders with ADHD and academic achievement are examined across time utilizing latent growth models. Results: Our results indicate an inverse relationship between the presence of coexisting disorders and academic achievement across time among children diagnosed with ADHD. Conclusion: The authors conclude that practitioners must be concerned with the presence of coexisting disorders for children with ADHD with respect to academic achievement as well as other behavioral and psychological outcomes.
Exploring Stakeholder Values and Interests in Evaluation
Authors: Orr Shannon K.
Published: June 2010

One of the challenges facing program evaluation education is how to bridge the need to train students in theoretical and methodological foundations, and also prepare them for the unpredictability and complex environment outside the classroom. This issue is particularly challenging in terms of understanding stakeholder values and interests. The Bella City Zoo role-play scenario is an effort to integrate traditional lecture material with role-playing to give students the opportunity to learn about stakeholder participation and to put that material into immediate practice.
Exercise treatment for drug abuse - A Danish pilot study
Authors: Roessler Kirsten Kaya
Published: June 2010

Aims: The paper presents a recent Danish programme using exercise to alter the behaviour and body image of drug addicts. Methods: 38 participants (23 male and 15 female) took part in groups three times per week for a minimum of two to a maximum of six months. Self-reported data combined with the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI) collected at initial admission and in follow-up interviews included information on drug use, body image, self-confidence and motivation to change behaviour. Results: The completion rate of the participants during the training period was on average 52%, which is considered as a success in treatments with drug abusers, usually characterized by a low compliance and commitment. The results of the participants who completed the programme (n = 20) showed an increased oxygen uptake of an average of 10%, improved self-reported quality of life and a higher energy level for the majority of the participants. The addicts obtained a better body image, became more sensitive to physical pain and disorders and reduced their drug intake during the training period. The long-term effect showed that five of the 20 abusers interviewed reported that they still had not taken drugs, 10 had downgraded their intake, four experienced no change at all and one died through an overdose. Conclusions: The results show that physical exercise can provide important support in the treatment of drug abuse and that the main problem is maintaining change in behaviour and peer group influence to ensure long-term change.