bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short Communication: Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor–Mediated Upregulation of Calcineurin Activity Underlies Impairment of Cardioprotective Signaling in Diabetic Hearts
Authors: Hotta Hiroyuki , Miura Tetsuji , Miki Takayuki , Togashi Nobuhiko , Maeda Takuto , Kim Seok Jai , Tanno Masaya , Yano Toshiyuki , Kuno Atsushi , Itoh Takahito , Satoh Takahiro , Terashima Yoshiaki , Ishikawa Satoko , Shimamoto Kazuaki
Published: November 2009

Rationale
:

The diabetic heart is resistant to ischemic preconditioning because of diabetes-associated impairment of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling. The mechanism by which PI3K-Akt signaling is impaired by diabetes remains unclear.

Objective
:

Here, we examined the hypothesis that phosphorylation of Jak2 upstream of PI3K is impaired in diabetic hearts by an angiotensin II type 1 (AT
1
) receptor–mediated mechanism.

Methods and Results
:

Infarct size (as percentage of risk area) after 20-minute ischemia/2-hour reperfusion was larger in a rat model of type 2 diabetes (Otsuka–Long–Evans–Tokushima fatty [OLETF] rat) than in its control (Long–Evans–Tokushima–Otsuka [LETO] rat) (60.4±1.6% versus 48.4±1.3%). Activation of Jak2-mediated signaling by erythropoietin or DADLE ([
d
-Ala2,
d
-Leu5]-enkephalin acetate), a δ-opioid receptor agonist, limited infarct size in LETO rats (27.7±3.4% and 24.8±5.0%) but not in OLETF rats (53.9±5.3% and 55.0±2.2%). Blockade of the AT
1
receptor by valsartan or losartan for 2 weeks restored the myocardial response of OLETF rats to erythropoietin-induced infarct size limitation (39.4±4.9% and 31.2±7.5). In OLETF rats, erythropoietin failed to phosphorylate both Jak2 and Akt, and calcineurin activity was significantly higher than in LETO rats. Two-week treatment with valsartan normalized calcineurin activity in OLETF rats and restored the response of Jak2 to erythropoietin. This effect of AT
1
receptor blockade was mimicked by inhibition of calcineurin by FK506.

Conclusions
:

These results suggest that the diabetic heart is refractory to protection by Jak2-activating ligands because of AT
1
receptor–mediated upregulation of calcineurin activity.
The Cellular Prion Protein Identifies Bipotential Cardiomyogenic Progenitors
Authors: Hidaka Kyoko , Shirai Manabu , Lee Jong-Kook , Wakayama Takanari , Kodama Itsuo , Schneider Michael D. , Morisaki Takayuki
Published: November 2009

Rationale
:

The paucity of specific surface markers for cardiomyocytes and their progenitors has impeded the development of embryonic or pluripotent stem cell–based transplantation therapy. Identification of relevant surface markers may also enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying differentiation.

Objective
:

Here, we show that cellular prion protein (PrP) serves as an effective surface marker for isolating nascent cardiomyocytes as well as cardiomyogenic progenitors.

Methods and Results
:

Embryonic stem (or embryo-derived) cells were analyzed using flow cytometry to detect surface expression of PrP and intracellular myosin heavy chain (Myhc) proteins. Sorted cells were then analyzed for their differentiation potential.

Conclusions
:

PrP
+
cells from beating embryoid bodies (EBs) frequently included nascent Myhc
+
cardiomyocytes. Cultured PrP
+
cells further differentiated, giving rise to cardiac troponin I
+
definitive cardiomyocytes with either an atrial or a ventricular identity. These cells were electrophysiologically functional and able to survive in vivo after transplantation. Combining PrP with a second marker, platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)α, enabled us to identify an earlier cardiomyogenic population from prebeating EBs, the PrP
+
PDGFRα
+
(PRa) cells. The Myhc
−
PRa cells expressed cardiac transcription factors, such as Nkx2.5, T-box transcription factor 5, and Isl1 (islet LIM homeobox 1), although they were not completely committed. In mouse embryos, PRa cells in cardiac crescent at the 1 to 2 somite stage were Myhc
+
, whereas they were Myhc
−
at headfold stages. PRa cells clonally expanded in methlycellulose cultures. Furthermore, single Myhc
−
PRa cell–derived colonies contained both cardiac and smooth muscle cells. Thus, PrP demarcates a population of bipotential cardiomyogenic progenitor cells that can differentiate into cardiac or smooth muscle cells.
Epidemiological Studies of the Effect of Stroke on Incident Dementia
Authors: Savva George M. , Stephan Blossom C.M. ,   the Alzheimer’s Society Vascular Dementia Systematic Review Group
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose—

Stroke is implicated in the incidence of dementia, and the risk of poststroke dementia is well characterized, but the excess risk of dementia in those with stroke compared with those without stroke is not well known.

Methods—

We conducted a systematic review of the excess risk of incident dementia conferred by stroke. Studies of the risk of incident dementia in the population with stroke compared with the population without stroke were identified and compared.

Results—

Sixteen studies were identified with all but one conducted in a community setting. A history of stroke doubles the risk of incident dementia in the older population. This increase is not explained by demographic or cardiovascular risk factors or by prestroke cognitive decline. The excess risk of incident dementia diminishes with time after stroke and may be higher in those without an
APOE
ε4 allele. There is no excess risk of incident dementia in those aged >85 years with a history of stroke compared to those aged >85 years without stroke.

Conclusions—

The effect of stroke on dementia incidence in the population is not explained by common risk factors. At this time of population aging and increased stroke survival, more research is needed to determine to what extent efforts to reduce the incidence of stroke will affect the incidence of dementia.
Hypertonic Saline In Patients With Poor-Grade Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Improves Cerebral Blood Flow, Brain Tissue Oxygen, and pH
Authors: Al-Rawi Pippa G. , Tseng Ming-Yuan , Richards Hugh K. , Nortje Jurgens , Timofeev Ivan , Matta Basil F. , Hutchinson Peter J. , Kirkpatrick Peter J.
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose—

Delayed cerebral ischemia and infarction due to reduced CBF remains the leading cause of poor outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Hypertonic saline (HS) is associated with an increase in CBF. This study explores whether CBF enhancement with HS in patients with poor-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage is associated with improved cerebral tissue oxygenation.

Methods—

Continuous monitoring of arterial blood pressure, intracranial pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, brain tissue oxygen, carbon dioxide, pH, and middle cerebral artery flow velocity was performed in 44 patients. Patients were given an infusion (2 mL/kg) of 23.5% HS. In 16 patients, xenon CT scanning was also performed. CBF in a region surrounding the tissue oxygen sensor was calculated. Data are mean±SD.

Results—

Thirty minutes postinfusion, a significant increase in arterial blood pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, flow velocity, brain tissue pH, and brain tissue oxygen was seen together with a decrease in intracranial pressure (
P
<0.05). Intracranial pressure remained reduced for >300 minutes and flow velocity elevated for >240 minutes. A significant increase in brain tissue oxygen persisted for 240 minutes. Average baseline regional CBF was 33.9±13.5 mL/100 g/min, rising by 20.3%±37.4% (
P
<0.05) after HS. Patients with favorable outcome responded better to HS in terms of increased CBF, brain tissue oxygen, and pH and reduced intracranial pressure compared with those with an unfavorable outcome. A sustained increase in brain tissue oxygen (beyond 210 minutes) was associated with favorable outcome (
P
<0.023).

Conclusion—

HS augments CBF in patients with poor-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage and significantly improves cerebral oxygenation for 4 hours postinfusion. Favorable outcome is associated with an improvement in brain tissue oxygen beyond 210 minutes.
Lower Rates of Intervention for Symptomatic Carotid Stenosis in Women Than in Men Reflect Differences in Disease Incidence
Authors: Marquardt Lars , Fairhead Jack F. , Rothwell Peter M.
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose—

Although there is little sex difference in the age-specific incidence of transient ischemic attack (TIA) and stroke, substantially more men than women undergo endarterectomy/stenting for symptomatic carotid stenosis. Sexism in referral for investigation or intervention has been proposed as an explanation; however, a lower incidence of carotid disease in women or reluctance to undergo intervention might also be responsible.

Methods—

We determined the sex-specific incidence of symptomatic carotid stenosis and subsequent endarterectomy/stenting from 2002 to 2009 in consecutive patients with TIA or nondisabling ischemic stroke in the Oxford Vascular Study. We studied equivalent data from routine clinical practices in the wider Oxfordshire population.

Results—

There was no sex difference in age-specific referral rates for carotid imaging in the Oxford Vascular Study (n=616; age-adjusted relative rate [RR] for males vs females=1.08; 95% CI, 0.79 to 1.46;
P
=0.64). However, rates of 50% to 99% symptomatic carotid stenosis were higher in men (RR=1.89; 95% CI, 1.31 to 2.71;
P
=0.0005). The same was seen in imaged patients (n=575) in the wider Oxfordshire population (RR=1.82; 95% CI, 1.31 to 2.53;
P
=0.003) and in pooled data (RR=1.87; 95% CI, 1.32 to 2.64;
P
=0.0003). Rates of symptomatic carotid occlusion were also higher in men in both populations (RR=3.19; 95% CI, 1.95 to 5.23;
P
<0.0001). Consequently, although men were more likely to undergo carotid intervention (RR=1.98; 95% CI, 1.43 to 2.75;
P
<0.0001), the proportion of patients with 50% to 99% symptomatic carotid stenosis who received intervention was similar for men and women (odds ratio=1.13; 95% CI, 0.57 to 2.25;
P
=0.72).

Conclusion—

Lower rates of intervention for 50% to 99% symptomatic carotid stenosis in women can be explained by sex differences in population-based incidence. We found no evidence of any investigation or intervention bias.
Confirmation of Genomewide Association Signals in Chinese Han Population Reveals Risk Loci for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ding Hu , Xu Yujun , Bao Xunna , Wang Xiaojing , Cui Guanglin , Wang Wei , Hui Rutai , Wang Dao Wen
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose—

The first genomewide association study of ischemic stroke in whites has identified multiple susceptibility loci. We confirmed this study by examining associations with ischemic stroke in a Chinese Han population.

Methods—

Twenty-five common variants were genotyped in a relatively large sample size including 1123 subjects with ischemic stroke cases (thrombosis stroke=716, lacunar infarction=407) and 557 normal control subjects. The association analyses were performed at both single nucleotide polymorphism and haplotype levels. False discovery rate q value method was applied for multiple testing corrections.

Results—

rs11052413, a intergenic single nucleotide polymorphism, was most significantly associated with ischemic stroke independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in additive (OR=1.51, 95% CI=1.19 to 1.92,
P
=7.4×10
−4
, q=0.018) and dominant models (OR=1.59, 95% CI=1.20 to 2.08,
P
=9.2×10
−4
, q=0.023). In addition, both ZNF650 rs10204475 and intergenic single nucleotide polymorphism rs10486776 were associated with ischemic stroke as well as independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in dominant models (OR=1.47, 95% CI=1.12 to 1.96,
P
=0.005, q=0.040 and OR=1.53, 95% CI=1.15 to 2.02,
P
=0.003, q=0.036, respectively). No significant results were found in stroke subtype analysis after multiple corrections.

Conclusion—

Our study confirmed previously reported associations between ischemic stroke and rs11052413, rs10486776, and ZNF 650 rs10204475 in a Chinese Han population. The mechanism whereby the genetic variants exert their effects on ischemic stroke remains to be further elucidated.
Reperfusion Is a More Accurate Predictor of Follow-Up Infarct Volume Than Recanalization
Authors: Soares Bruno P. , Tong Elizabeth , Hom Jason , Cheng Su-Chun , Bredno Joerg , Boussel Loic , Smith Wade S. , Wintermark Max
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to compare recanalization and reperfusion in terms of their predictive value for imaging outcomes (follow-up infarct volume, infarct growth, salvaged penumbra) and clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Material and Methods—

Twenty-two patients admitted within 6 hours of stroke onset were retrospectively included in this study. These patients underwent a first stroke CT protocol including CT-angiography (CTA) and perfusion-CT (PCT) on admission, and similar imaging after treatment, typically around 24 hours, to assess recanalization and reperfusion. Recanalization was assessed by comparing arterial patency on admission and posttreatment CTAs; reperfusion, by comparing the volumes of CBV, CBF, and MTT abnormality on admission and posttreatment PCTs. Collateral flow was graded on the admission CTA. Follow-up infarct volume was measured on the discharge noncontrast CT. The groups of patients with reperfusion, no reperfusion, recanalization, and no recanalization were compared in terms of imaging and clinical outcomes.

Results—

Reperfusion (using an MTT reperfusion index >75%) was a more accurate predictor of follow-up infarct volume than recanalization. Collateral flow and recanalization were not accurate predictors of follow-up infarct volume. An interaction term was found between reperfusion and the volume of the admission penumbra >50 mL.

Conclusion—

Our study provides evidence that reperfusion is a more accurate predictor of follow-up infarct volume in acute ischemic stroke patients than recanalization. We recommend an MTT reperfusion index >75% to assess therapy efficacy in future acute ischemic stroke trials that use perfusion-CT.
Estimating War Deaths
Authors: Spagat Michael , Mack Andrew , Cooper Tara , Kreutz Joakim
Published: November 2009

In a much-cited recent article, Obermeyer, Murray, and Gakidou (2008a) examine estimates of wartime fatalities from injuries for thirteen countries. Their analysis poses a major challenge to the battle-death estimating methodology widely used by conflict researchers, engages with the controversy over whether war deaths have been increasing or decreasing in recent decades, and takes the debate over different approaches to battle-death estimation to a new level. In making their assessments, the authors compare war death reports extracted from World Health Organization (WHO) sibling survey data with the battle-death estimates for the same countries from the International Peace Research Institute, Oslo (PRIO). The analysis that leads to these conclusions is not compelling, however. Thus, while the authors argue that the PRIO estimates are too low by a factor of three, their comparison fails to compare like with like. Their assertion that there is “no evidence” to support the PRIO finding that war deaths have recently declined also fails. They ignore war-trend data for the periods after 1994 and before 1955, base their time trends on extrapolations from a biased convenience sample of only thirteen countries, and rely on an estimated constant that is statistically insignificant.
Towards an Understanding of Cognitive Coordination: Theoretical Developments and Empirical Illustrations
Authors: Foss Nicolai , Lorenzen Mark
Published: November 2009

The cognitive dimension of institutions has been comparatively neglected in social science research. In particular, economists have concentrated on how institutions provide incentives. However, institutions also influence behaviours by influencing beliefs and expectations that help agents to overcome coordination problems. We explore various aspects of how institutions may align agents’ beliefs, concentrating on the role of analogies in interactive decision making, and how analogies grow from experience. We illustrate our reasoning by an empirical example.
The Sacred in Leadership: Separation, Sacrifice and Silence
Authors: Grint Keith
Published: November 2009

In attempting to escape from the clutches of heroic leadership we now seem enthralled by its apparent opposite—distributed leadership: in this post-heroic era we will all be leaders so that none are. This essay suggests that we need to reconsider the nature of leadership if we are to assess alternatives and a critical aspect is its relationship to the sacred. I suggest that the sacred nature of leadership is not so much the elephant in the room but the room itself—the space that allows leadership to work. Leadership embodies three elements of the sacred: the separation between leaders and followers, the sacrifice of leaders and followers, and the way leaders silence the anxiety and resistance of followers. The essay concludes that non-sacred governance systems are plausible but that the effort and responsibility required would politicize the private sphere and render radical alternatives—non-sacred leadership—only viable for short-term, small scale organizations. We need therefore to find ways of engaging with, rather than seeking to avoid, the sacred nature of leadership.
Social Remembering and Organizational Memory
Authors: Rowlinson Michael , Booth Charles , Clark Peter , Delahaye Agnes , Procter Stephen
Published: November 2009

Organizational Memory Studies (OMS) is limited by its managerialist, presentist preoccupation with the utility of memory for knowledge management. The dominant model of memory in OMS is that of a storage bin. But this model has been rejected by psychologists because it overlooks the distinctly human subjective experience of remembering, i.e. episodic memory. OMS also fails to take account of the specific social and historical contexts of organizational memory. The methodological individualism that is prevalent in OMS makes it difficult to engage with the rapidly expanding sociological and historical literature in social memory studies, where a more social constructionist approach to ‘collective memory’ is generally favoured. However, for its part social memory studies derived from Maurice Halbwachs neglects organizations, focusing primarily on the nation as a mnemonic community. From a critical perspective organizations can be seen as appropriating society’s memory through corporate sites of memory such as historical visitor attractions and corporate museums. There is scope for a sociological and historical reorientation within OMS, drawing on social memory studies and focusing on corporate sites of memory, such as The Henry Ford museum complex, as well as the mnemonic role of founders and beginnings in organizations. Taking a social constructionist, collectivist approach to social remembering in organizations allows connections to be made between memory and other research programmes, such as organizational culture studies.
Explaining Differences in Child Care Policy Development in France and the USA: Norms, Frames, Programmatic Ideas
Authors: White Linda A.
Published: November 2009

This article provides an answer to the question of why government support for child care policies and programs in the United States remains weak, despite increasing levels of women’s labor market participation and a relatively strong women’s movement, but strong in France, a country that has had lower levels of women’s labor market participation as well as a much weaker women’s movement. While those differences can be explained in part by economic and political interests and institutional and broad cultural differences, a theoretically richer understanding emerges when one examines how the three kinds of ideas underpinning these policy choices — norms, frames, and programmatic ideas — helped shape policies that emerged within specific actor, institutional, and cultural contexts.
The intravenous to oral relative milligram potency ratio of morphine during chronic dosing in cancer pain
Authors: Lasheen Wael , Walsh Declan , Mahmoud Fade , Sarhill Nabeel , Rivera Nilo , Davis Mellar , Lagman Ruth , Legrand Susan
Published: November 2009

Morphine (M) is the opioid analgesic of choice for severe cancer pain. The IV to PO M equipotent switch ratio (CR) is controversial. We designed this prospective observational cohort to confirm the efficacy and safety of M IV to PO CR of 1:3. Consecutive cancer patients admitted to an inpatient palliative medicine unit were screened for inclusion. Pain was managed by palliative medicine specialists. They were blinded to the patient data collected, and the calculated CR. The switch was considered successful if the following criteria were met: (1) Pain adequately controlled: pain rated as none or mild (2) Number of RD less than 4 (for non incident pain) per 24 hours (3) No limiting side effects. We used Day 3 ATC M dose for CR calculations. The major outcome measures were the IV : PO CR ratio, morphine doses (mg/day), pain severity, number of PRN doses, and day 1 and day 3side effects. Descriptive statistics were used to report mean, median, standard deviation and range of different variables. Two hundred and fifty six consecutive admissions were screened, and 106 were eligible for the study. Sixty two underwent a successful M route switch and were included in this analysis. A ratio of 1:3 was safely implemented over a wide M dose range. About 80% were successfully switched with a calculated CR of 1:3. 20% required an oral M dose adjustment after route switch either to better pain control or reduce side effects with a resultant higher (e.g. 1:4) or lower (e.g. 1:2) calculated potency ratios respectively. A potency ratio of 1:3 was safe as evaluated by common M side-effects, the dose also easy to calculate. The 1: 3 M IV to PO relative milligram potency ratio appears correct and practical for most patients over a wide M dose range.
Webmasters Reveal the Rules: Do Regulations Compromise Legislators’ Online Communication With Constituents?
Authors: Reetz Narro Amber
Published: November 2009

In a nationwide study of state legislative Web sites, Narro, Mayo, and Miller found that the communication tools (i.e., weblogs, electronic newsletters, online polling) that state legislators offer vary more from state to state than legislator to legislator. Taking their information into account, this article addresses regulations put on legislators’ home pages.The author interviewed Webmasters in 44 states and found that having less limitations and allowing legislators freedom to manipulate their home pages encourage them to use these home pages for active communication. Although most states do not allow state legislators to use home pages as a campaign tool, some allow free flow of communication between legislators and constituents. The researcher found that legislators would use their home pages more as a communication tool if given the freedom. However, change begins with legislators, who are the policy makers. Whether they have freedom is their own choice.
Google and Gödel
Authors: Oberdan Thomas
Published: November 2009

The article “Is Google Making Us Stupid?” in last Summer’s Atlantic Monthly, raised a number of provocative, and indeed worrisome, questions about computer usage and cognitive development. For instance, persons with considerable experience of reading for the sake of pleasure report that, after a couple of years using computers a great deal, they have experienced a loss of interest in pleasure-reading, even feeling impatient when written sources do not supply the information they seek quickly and conveniently. One suggestion is that these effects are somehow related to the mathematical basis of computing provided in the work of Alan Turing. Since, however, Turing's work is based on earlier work by Kurt Gödel, the question may be referred to Gödel's results and it is argued that the mathematical architecture underlying computer operation and applications in no way limits the creativity or even the cognitive activity of its users.
Overview on Biofuels From a European Perspective
Authors: Ponti Luigi , Gutierrez Andrew Paul
Published: November 2009

In light of the recently developed European Union (EU) Biofuels Strategy, the literature is reviewed to examine (a) the coherency of biofuel production with the EU nonindustrial vision of agriculture, and (b) given its insufficient land base, the implications of a proposed bioenergy pact to grow biofuel crops in the developing world to meet EU biofuel demands. The EU acknowledged that the use of food crops for biofuel production was based on wrong assumptions concerning climate change mitigation, and its support has now shifted to second-generation nonfood crops. The bioenergy pact entails (a) biofuel crops production in developing countries, especially Africa, that in the absence of environmental and social regulations may lead to ethical trade-offs in land use (food vs. fuel) and (b) the use of transgenic technology that conflicts with the EU’s own vision of sustainable agriculture.
Methamphetamine Use and Criminal Behavior
Authors: Gizzi Michael C. , Gerkin Patrick
Published: November 2009

This research seeks to broaden our understanding of methamphetamine’s (meth’s) place within the study of drugs and crime. Through extensive court records research and interviews with 200 offenders in local jails in western Colorado, this research contributes to the creation of a meth user profile and begins to identify the place of meth in the drug—crime nexus. The study compares the criminal behavior of meth users with other drug users, finding that meth users are more likely than other drug users to be drunk or high at the time of arrest and claim their crimes were related to drug use in other ways. A content analysis of criminal records demonstrates that meth users have more extensive criminal records and are more likely than other drug users to commit property crimes.
Female Serial Murderers: Directions for Future Research on a Hidden Population
Authors: Gurian Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2009

This comprehensive overview on a sample of 65 cases (134 total offenders, including some partnered teams of more than 2 offenders) provides information on female serial murderers who either work in a mixed-sex offending group or alone. These female serial homicide offenders have a distinct set of offender—victim characteristics, including specific victim preferences, methods, and motivations: Partnered serial homicide offenders are more likely to target adult strangers and despatch them using a combination of methods, whereas solo female serial murderers are most likely to target adult family members and murder them with poison. These patterns have the potential to add to our understanding of the possible similarities and differences of serial homicide cases by building on established offender characteristics. Convictions and sentences for the offenders are included and areas of future research and implications for treatment with this sample are also explored.
Transfer Characteristics of Interfacial Stresses Between Carbon Nanotubes and Matrix
Authors: Wang H. , Meng F. , Wang X.
Published: November 2009

This study reports the result of an investigation into the effects of chiral vector of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and modulus of matrix on the interfacial stresses of CNT-reinforced composites. Based on the molecular structural mechanics approach, the assumption that CNTs and matrix are perfectly bonded to each other, and the equation of multi-node constraints, the molecular structural mechanics model of single/multi-walled CNT-reinforced composites is established. Results show that the use of Armchair CNTs may be more beneficial than the use of Zigzag CNTs in CNT-reinforced composites when the radius of Armchair CNT is equal to that of the Zigzag CNT, and the matrix with higher elastic modulus may be more beneficial in CNT-reinforced composite structures. Besides, it is found that the load transfer efficiency from van der Waals force is only about 30%, so that the use of single-walled CNTs may be more beneficial than the use of multi-walled structures in CNT-reinforced composite structures.
The effect of separate collection of municipal solid waste on the lower calorific value of the residual waste
Authors: Calabrò Paolo S.
Published: November 2009

Nowadays, separate collection plays an irreplaceable role in municipal solid waste management and incineration in a waste-to-energy plant is one of the main disposal options. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of separate collection on the characteristics of residual municipal solid waste in terms of lower calorific value and ash production. Starting from the average Italian municipal solid waste composition, several separate collection scenarios have been considered evaluating the main characteristics of the residual waste ( e.g. composition, water content, lower calorific value). Moreover, in order to have the opportunity of estimating the lower calorific value of residual waste for waste composition and separate collection scenarios different from those tested, a regression model is proposed, calibrated and partially validated.
Solid waste, its health impairments and role of rag pickers in Tiruchirappalli city, Tamil Nadu, Southern India
Authors: Chandramohan A. , Ravichandran C. , Sivasankar V.
Published: November 2009

In India, the significant increase in the generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) during the last few decades is due to the rapid population and economic development. Though the appropriate attempts are made through the 3-‘R’ principles, waste management still needs to be envisaged seriously by everybody for a cleaner and greener environment. Rag-pickers, who contribute to solid waste management to some extent, are the people who rummage through garbage bins to pick out ‘rags’ for their livelihood. These rag-pickers usually collect the materials that have good re-sale value as these materials are mostly recycled or reused. In the present study, the collection and the management of solid waste and the level of microbial pollution generated through air, soil and solid waste were studied. A questionnaire survey based on age, sex, educational status, socio-economic status, habits and health effects was conducted from 65 randomly selected rag-pickers from various places of Tiruchirappalli city The results revealed that they can be properly educated and trained to protect themselves from unhygienic practices and addiction. Either the Government or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) should devise a suitable proposal to monitor and make use of these unorganized rag-pickers who are indispensable to the society.
Entrepreneurs and Job Growth: Probing the Boundaries of Time and Space
Authors: Henderson Jason , Weiler Stephan
Published: November 2009

Although scholars have long emphasized the importance of entrepreneurs to long-term growth prospects, entrepreneurship often receives less attention by policy makers than traditional industrial recruitment efforts as regional growth engines. The effects of entrepreneurship may be more subtle than the latter approaches, but business creation can have significant effects across both space and time. This article first sketches the important relationship between innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth and then empirically assesses the relationship between entrepreneurship and job growth across U.S. labor market areas and counties. Three key findings emerge. First, entrepreneurship is systematically related to job growth; furthermore, this relationship increases in intensity over time. Second, entrepreneurship has the greatest impact on the county in which it occurs but also generates positive spillovers for job growth in neighboring counties. Finally, the impact of entrepreneurship is greater in denser, more urbanized settings where such businesses can leverage the advantages of a thick marketplace.
SLEDAI-2K for a 30-day window
Authors: Touma Z. , Urowitz MB , Gladman DD
Published: November 2009

The aim of our study was to determine whether the SLEDAI-2K calculated using a timeframe of 30 days prior to a visit for clinical and laboratory variables was equivalent to the prescribed 10-day period. One hundred forty nine consecutive lupus patients seen over 9 weeks at the University of Toronto Lupus Clinic enrolled. The SLEDAI-2K score was completed twice, for a 10- and 30-day window. Forty patients had a classic SLEDAI-2K activity score of 0 and 109 patients had varying levels of disease activity ranging from 1 to 31. In all but one patient, there was agreement between the SLEDAI-2K 10 and 30 days. Thus SLEDAI-2K 30 days is similar to SLEDAI-2K 10 days, both in patients in remission and with a spectrum of disease activity levels. SLEDAI-2K 30 days may now be used to describe disease activity over the previous 30 days. Lupus (2010) 19, 49—50.
Judicial Reform in Mexico: Political Insurance or the Search for Political Legitimacy?
Authors: Inclán Oseguera Silvia
Published: November 2009

Judicial reform presents a paradox: What makes governing elites decide to grant power to an autonomous judiciary that will eventually curtail their own powers? The engagement of governing elites in judicial reforms is recently being explained as strategic moves to protect their interests when they can foresee a future loss of political control. Using the Mexican reform process of 1994-95, this work discusses the applicability of such perspective for this case and offers an alternative explanation based on the reformers’ need to legitimize their rule in a context marked by political competition and a discredited supreme court.
Postmaterialist Social Constituencies and Political Triggers: Explaining Bill of Rights Genesis in Internally Stable, Advanced Democracies
Authors: Erdos David
Published: November 2009

This article forwards a new postmaterialist trigger theory (PTT) of the origins of bills of rights in stable, advanced democracies. Socially, such projects are linked to the postmaterialist growth of “cultural left” forces such as civil libertarians and social equality seekers. Additionally, a focusing trigger providing an immediate political rationale for change is also generally required. This trigger determines the precise timing of any change and also influences its shape. Such a trigger need not be strategic or prospective in nature. Instead, political elites may embrace bill of rights genesis as part of a backward-looking “aversive” reaction to prior negative political experiences during opposition.
The Ideational Foundations of Israel’s “Constitutional Revolution”
Authors: Woods Patricia J.
Published: November 2009

In the Israeli case, judicial empowerment has come primarily through judicial initiative rather than emerging from majoritarian institutions or strategic considerations relating to electoral politics. Justices with deep commitments to political-liberal rights engaged in a decades-long process of entrenching a political-liberal rights regime through jurisprudence. At the heart of this sea change in Israeli politics was a shift in ideas.
Implementation of a standardized protocol for prevention and management of oral mucositis in patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Bhatt Valkal , Vendrell Nancy , Nau Karen , Crumb Deborah , Roy Vivek
Published: November 2009

Purpose. Oral mucositis is a serious problem that affects a significant number of hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients. There are many gaps in management, and evidence-based guidelines do not provide consistent recommendations. The purpose of this pilot study was to develop a mucositis oral care protocol for the prevention and management of mucositis in the HCT patient and to evaluate the clinical impact of its implementation.

Methods. After receipt of Institutional Review Board approval, all patients admitted to the Hematology—Oncology service for high-dose chemotherapy followed by an autologous or allogeneic HCT were eligible for the study. As part of a change in practice, a new mucositis protocol consisting of a specific oral care regimen was instituted for prevention and treatment of mucositis. Assessment of mucositis began upon admission to the hospital and the patient was evaluated using a mucositis grading scale on a daily basis by the physician and nursing staff. The new mucositis protocol was a part of the HCT service admission orders for each patient. The group of patients treated according to the new mucositis protocol were compared with a retrospective control group consisting of patients who had undergone management of oral mucositis under the previous standard of care. The primary endpoints were to evaluate incidence, severity, and duration of oral mucositis. Secondary endpoints included days requiring narcotics; days of parenteral nutrition, febrile neutropenia, antimicrobial therapy, and length of hospital stay.

Results. There were 13 patients enrolled in the control group and 12 patients in the new protocol group. The new protocol resulted in a decreased incidence (100% vs. 75%) and duration (19.2 vs. 8.3 days) of mucositis. Days of maximum grade one and three mucositis were decreased by 56%, and 70%, respectively. Days of maximum grade two mucositis, however increased by 22%. The days of narcotic use were reduced by 19% in the new protocol group (15.8 vs. 12.8 days). All patients in the new protocol group required parenteral nutrition, but days of use were reduced by 41% (17 vs. 10.2 days). The incidence of infection measured by days of febrile neutropenia and antimicrobial therapy were reduced by 35% (10.2 vs. 6.5 days) and 33% (17 vs. 11.4 days). Finally, the overall length of hospital stay was reduced by 7 days (30 vs. 23 days).

Conclusion. Implementation of a standardized oral care protocol for mucositis management resulted in a decreased incidence, duration and severity of mucositis, and also reduced the global negative impact of mucositis. Future studies may further evaluate the global impact by adjusting for confounding factors. J Oncol Pharm Practice (2010) 16: 195—204.
Evaluation Capacity and Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Carman Joanne G. , Fredericks Kimberly A.
Published: November 2009

In this article, we explore the evaluation capacity of today’s nonprofit organizations. We report the findings of a cluster analysis that suggest that when it comes to evaluation, there are three types of nonprofit organizations. The first type of nonprofit organization is one that, by most accounts, is satisfied with their evaluation efforts. Although these organizations report that they struggle with not having as much time as they would like to devote to evaluation, they are fairly satisfied with their levels of evaluation expertise and report having few problems with the implementation of evaluation systems. The second type of organization has some struggles with evaluation. These organizations report having internal support for evaluation from management, the board and staff, and some capacity to implement an evaluation system, yet they struggle with evaluation design issues, data collection, and resources for evaluation. The third type of organization is one that is struggling across the board. These organizations report having substantial implementation challenges, in terms of lacking basic resources (i.e., staff, funding, time), lacking evaluation expertise, and they report having little support for evaluation from funders, the board, management, and staff. We conclude by exploring the implications of these findings.
Acoustics in Schools: Explaining the Options to Architects by the use of Approximate Formulae and Graphs, with a Special Emphasis on Dining Spaces
Authors: Coley David A. , Hunt Sam , Mitchell Andrew
Published: November 2009

The UK is undertaking a large-scale rebuilding of its school stock. The scale of the operation has meant that designers with little knowledge of school design are frequently involved. One negative consequence of this can be poor acoustic design and therefore a poor indoor environment. This paper is in part pedagogical, and presents a series of new key relationships in the acoustics of school spaces with an emphasis on dining rooms — an area with which architects have been found to have difficulties. Hopefully, this work will allow architects and building services engineers to appreciate better various salient points and to understand fully the flexibility they have to design novel spaces that can provide a high quality educational experience. Several novel equations are derived that acousticians, building services engineers, and architects may feel useful during the early stages of the design process. Three case studies are also given.
Width Distributions of Asbestos and Non-Asbestos Amphibole Minerals
Authors: Van Orden D.R. , Lee R.J. , Allison K.A. , Addison J.
Published: November 2009

Amphibole asbestos fibers and non-asbestos amphibole particles have been shown to have different size characteristics, in addition to their morphological differences. There is a tendency, however, among laboratories and some regulators to ignore the morphological differences and to simply rely on a minimal aspect ratio to determine whether a particle is an asbestos fiber. This study, part of a larger evaluation of amphibole minerals, was undertaken to provide supporting size data that can be used to identify populations of asbestos and non-asbestos amphibole minerals. The asbestos samples average 0.27 μm in width with 90% thinner than 0.5 μm. In contrast, the non-asbestos amphiboles average 0.97 μm wide with 75% wider than 0.53 μm. The average aspect ratios were 76 : 1 for asbestos and 16 : 1 for the non-asbestos samples. These data confirm the historical distinctions of asbestos and non-asbestos amphibole minerals.
Aerosol and Biological Sampling of a Ventilation Fan-bank Modified with Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation and Improved Filter Holders
Authors: Moyer Ernest S. , Miller William E. , Commodore Michael A. , Coffey Chris C. , Hayes Jeffrey L. , Fotta Steven A. , Sims George
Published: November 2009

Two independent modifications were made to one of two identical side-by-side filter banks for a large air-handler: (1) new filter holders, intended to provide a better seal and (2) ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lamps, intended to control microbiological growth. Total system efficiency testing with optical particle counters was performed to determine the effectiveness of the new filter holders. The efficacy of the UVGI lamps was determined through biological surface and air sampling. Results indicated that the side with the new filter holders was about 3.4% more efficient per year during the 22-month sampling period, whereas the coil chamber with the UVGI lamps had less biological contamination than the corresponding control chamber for over 75% of the sampling days.
Detecting Potential Pathogens on Hospital Surfaces: An Assessment of Carpet Tile Flooring in the Hospital Patient Environment
Authors: Harris Debra D. , Pacheco Adriana , Lindner Angela S.
Published: November 2009

The type of flooring in hospitals has long been scrutinized in terms of its potential role in nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections. This study was conducted for the purpose of detecting potential pathogens on tiled carpets, nontiled carpets, and vinyl flooring, all used in a Midwestern community hospital. A swab sampling protocol conducted over a 5-month period, coupled with denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis-16S rDNA molecular analysis, allowed for greater than 93% of the major components in the flooring samples to be identified at the genus and species level. This study evaluates the impact of floor finish materials as potential sources of microbial-related hospital-acquired infections.
Indoor Radon Survey in 120 Schools Situated in Four Districts of the Punjab Province — Pakistan
Authors: Rahman S.U. , Matiullah  , Anwar J. , Jabbar A. , Rafique M.
Published: November 2009

An indoor radon survey has been carried in 120 schools situated in four districts of the Punjab province, namely Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, and Rawalpindi. In each season, a total of 360 CR-39-based radon detectors were installed in the selected schools. After exposure the detectors were etched in 6M NaOH at 80°C solution for 16 h and tracks densities, which are related to the radon concentration, were measured. Indoor radon concentration varied from 18 ± 7 to 168 ± 5 Bq·m-3 with an average value of 52 ± 9 Bq·m-3. High indoor radon concentration values were found in the summer season, whereas lower values were recorded in autumn season. The mean annual radon effective dose equivalent was estimated to be 0.49 mSv per year. Present indoor radon concentration values are higher than that of the world average value of 40 Bq·m-3, but lower than the action level recommended by the ICRP.
Echocardiographic Values for Cardiac Dimensions and Left Ventricular Mass of Normal Chinese Adults
Authors: Leung Nancy K.W.
Published: November 2009

Studies evaluating potential differences in normal cardiac dimensions and body mass indices of various ethnic populations using 2D echocardiography have reported variations based on gender and ethnicity. With the currently accepted echocardiographic reference values from US studies, and the limited information available on Chinese populations, the aim of this pilot study was to determine the normal cardiac dimensions and left ventricular mass of adult Chinese using 2D-guided M-mode echocardiography. Of healthy Chinese adults (age 18 years and older) living in Hong Kong, 57 suitable participants (26 men, aged 35.7 ± 10.2 years; 31 women, aged 44.2 ± 8.5 years) were recruited. The results indicated that the mean sizes of the aortic root, left ventricular wall thickness, and left ventricular mass of Chinese men were significantly larger than those of Chinese women. Left ventricular mass of the Chinese sample population (men, 116.0 ± 20.6 g; women, 99.8 ± 20.9 g) was significantly smaller than US-based studies. The conclusions drawn are of clinical importance, especially in the assessment and management of hypertensive cardiac effects. The results of this study strongly indicate the need for a large-scale study to further establish ethnic-specific and gender-specific echocardiographic reference values for the Chinese population.
Review of effect of P and Sr on modification and porosity development in Al–Si alloys
Authors: Campbell J. , Tiryakioğlu M.
Published: November 2009

The benefits of Sr additions to Al–Si alloys to modify the eutectic are often impaired by the development of porosity, sometimes to the degree that benefits are negated. Experimental reports are reviewed in this paper, suggesting an explanation in terms of the oxide population in the melt. The unmodified silicon particles are nucleated by AlP, which has in turn nucleated on oxide bifilms. The oxide bifilms, which are essentially cracks, are straightened by the crystalline growth of Si particles, leading to increased crack size and consequently reduced mechanical properties. The addition of Sr improves properties by suppressing the formation of Si on bifilms and thereby preventing the straightening of the pre-existing cracks. Si is now forced to precipitate at a lower temperature as a coral-like eutectic. Unfortunately, the bifilms are now freed (the primary Si particles no longer exist to grow around and sequester the bifilms), remaining in suspension in the liquid metal, allowing them to act to block interdendritic flow and aid the initiation of the formation of pores, countering the benefits of the improved structure.