bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recombinant Soybean Protein β-Conglycinin α′-Subunit Expression and Induced Hypersensitivity Reaction in Rats
Authors: Guo Pengfei , Piao Xiangshu , Cao Yunhe , Ou Deyuan , Li Defa
Published: September 2007

Background: The major storage protein in soybean seed is β-conglycinin and this protein has been identified as being responsible for food-allergic reactions in several species. However, the mechanism through which β-conglycinin induces an allergic reaction has not yet been elucidated. In addition, assessing the antigenic activity of β-conglycinin by studying the activity of a subunit has rarely been conducted. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to characterize the antigenic specificity of the β-conglycinin α′-subunit. Methods: We established an Escherichia coli expression system to obtain β-conglycinin α′-subunit. The fusion proteins were then used in a rat model to induce a hypersensitive reaction. Immunoblotting, IgE and IgG1 level, histamine release, and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reactions and intestinal histology were tested to assess the allergenic activity of the β-conglycinin α′-subunit. Results: Pure β-conglycinin α′-subunit was obtained by expression in E. coli. The recombinant proteins were shown to have the same biological activity as the natural β-conglycinin α′-subunit using immunoblotting analysis. Both the IgE and IgG1 level in serum and the histamine concentration in the intestine were increased while passive cutaneous anaphylactic reactions were induced in Brown Norway rats by intragastric gavage with the α′-subunit. Histamine release of mast cells was also elevated in vitro. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the β-conglycinin α′-subunit possesses an intrinsic immune-stimulating capacity and that it can induce an allergic reaction. Moreover, this study showed that β-conglycinin α′-subunit-induced anaphylaxis is IgE mediated, and mast cell degranulation and histamine release are associated with anaphylactic symptoms.
Multivariable Prediction of Renal Insufficiency Developing After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Brown Jeremiah R. , Cochran Richard P. , Leavitt Bruce J. , Dacey Lawrence J. , Ross Cathy S. , MacKenzie Todd A. , Kunzelman Karyn S. , Kramer Robert S. , Hernandez Felix , Helm Robert E. , Westbrook Benjamin M. , Dunton Robert F. , Malenka David J. , O’Connor Gerald T.
Published: September 2007

Background—

Renal insufficiency after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is associated with increased short-term and long-term mortality. We hypothesized that preoperative patient characteristics could be used to predict the patient-specific risk of developing postoperative renal insufficiency.

Methods and Results—

Data were prospectively collected on 11 301 patients in northern New England who underwent isolated CABG surgery between 2001 and 2005. Based on National Kidney Foundation definitions, moderate renal insufficiency was defined as a GFR <60 mL/min/1.73m
2
and severe renal insufficiency as a GFR <30. Patients with at least moderate renal insufficiency at baseline were eliminated from the analysis, leaving 8363 patients who became our study cohort. A prediction model was developed to identify variables that best predicted the risk of developing severe renal insufficiency using multiple logistic regression, and the predictive ability of the model quantified using a bootstrap validated C-Index (Area Under ROC) and Hosmer-Lemeshow statistic. Three percent of the patients with normal renal function before CABG surgery developed severe renal insufficiency (229/8363). In a multivariable model the preoperative patient characteristics most strongly associated with postoperative severe renal insufficiency included: age, gender, white blood cell count >12 000, prior CABG, congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, and preoperative intraaortic balloon pump. The predictive model was significant with χ
2
150.8, probability value <0.0001. The model discriminated well, ROC 0.72 (95%CI: 0.68 to 0.75). The model was well calibrated according to the Hosmer-Lemeshow test.

Conclusions—

We developed a robust prediction rule to assist clinicians in identifying patients with normal, or near normal, preoperative renal function who are at high risk of developing severe renal insufficiency. Physicians may be able to take steps to limit this adverse outcome and its associated increase in morbidity and mortality.
Comparison of the Profiles of Postoperative Systemic Hemodynamics and Oxygen Transport in Neonates After the Hybrid or the Norwood Procedure
Authors: Li Jia , Zhang Gencheng , Benson Lee , Holtby Helen , Cai Sally , Humpl Tilman , Van Arsdell Glen S. , Redington Andrew N. , Caldarone Christopher A.
Published: September 2007

Background—

After the Norwood procedure, early postoperative neonatal physiology is characterized by hemodynamic instability and imbalance of oxygen transport that is commonly attributed to surgical myocardial injury and a systemic inflammatory response to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Because the Hybrid procedure (arterial duct stenting and bilateral pulmonary artery banding) avoids CPB, cardioplegic arrest, and circulatory arrest, we hypothesized that the Hybrid procedure is associated with superior postoperative hemodynamics and oxygen transport.

Methods and Results—

Oxygen consumption (VO
2
) was continuously measured using respiratory mass spectrometry for 72 hours after Hybrid (n=6) and Norwood (n=13) procedures. Arterial, superior vena cava, and pulmonary venous blood gases and pressures were measured at 2- to 4-hour intervals to calculate systemic and pulmonary blood flows (Qs, Qp), and systemic vascular resistance (SVR), total pulmonary vascular resistance including pulmonary arterial band or B-T shunt (tPVR), cardiac output (CO), oxygen delivery (DO
2
), and oxygen extraction ratio (ERO
2
). Rate-pressure product was calculated as heart rate×systolic arterial pressure. When compared with the Norwood procedure, the early postoperative Hybrid patients had lower CO, higher SVR, and higher Qp:Qs ratios. In addition, the DO
2
and VO
2
were both lower in the Hybrids with higher ERO
2
and lactate levels. This early postoperative pattern reversed after 48 hours.

Conclusions—

Although Hybrid procedure avoids CPB and cardioplegic arrest, the early hemodynamic profile is not superior to the Norwood in terms of cardiac output and control of pulmonary blood flow. These data strongly suggest that a “hands off” approach to postoperative care in Hybrid patients may not be appropriate in patients with preoperative diminished myocardial function; and in such patients a Norwood-derived management strategy (afterload reduction and inotropic support) should be considered.
Differentiation, Survival, and Function of Embryonic Stem Cell–Derived Endothelial Cells for Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Li Zongjin , Wu Jenny C. , Sheikh Ahmad Y. , Kraft Daniel , Cao Feng , Xie Xiaoyan , Patel Manishkumar , Gambhir Sanjiv S. , Robbins Robert C. , Cooke John P. , Wu Joseph C.
Published: September 2007

Background—

Embryonic stem (ES) cells are distinguished by their capacity for self-renewal and pluripotency. Here we characterize the differentiation of ES cell–derived endothelial cells (ESC-ECs), use molecular imaging techniques to examine their survival in vivo, and determine the therapeutic efficacy of ESC-ECs for restoration of cardiac function after ischemic injury.

Methods and Results—

Murine ES cells were transfected with a construct composed of a vascular endothelial cadherin promoter driving enhanced green fluorescence protein (pVE-cadherin-eGFP). Differentiation of ES cells to ECs was detected by FACS analysis using Flk-1 (early EC marker at day 4) and VE-cadherin (late EC marker at day 8). After isolation, these ESC-ECs express endothelial cell markers similar to adult mouse lung endothelial cells, form vascular-like channels, and incorporate DiI-labeled acetylated low-density lipoprotein (DiI-Ac-LDL). For in vivo imaging, ES cells were transduced with an ubiquitin promoter driving firefly luciferase and monomeric red fluorescence protein (pUb-Fluc-mRFP). A robust correlation exists between Fluc signals and cell numbers by ex vivo imaging analysis (
R
2
=0.98) and by in vitro enzyme assay (
R
2
=0.94). Afterward, 5×10
5
ESC-ECs or PBS (as control) was injected into the hearts of mice undergoing LAD ligation (n=15 per group). Bioluminescence imaging showed longitudinal survival of transplanted ESC-ECs for ≈8 weeks. Echocardiogram demonstrated significant functional improvement in the ESC-EC group compared with control (
P
=0.04). Finally, postmortem analysis confirmed increased presence of small capillaries and venules in the infarcted zones by CD31 staining.

Conclusions—

This is the first study to track the fate and function of transplanted ESC-ECs in the heart. With further validation, these ESC-ECs could become a valuable source of cell therapy for induction of angiogenesis in the treatment of myocardial ischemia.
Protein Precoating of Elastomeric Tissue-Engineering Scaffolds Increased Cellularity, Enhanced Extracellular Matrix Protein Production, and Differentially Regulated the Phenotypes of Circulating Endothelial Progenitor Cells
Authors: Sales Virna L. , Engelmayr George C. , Johnson John A. , Gao Jin , Wang Yadong , Sacks Michael S. , Mayer John E.
Published: September 2007

Background—

Optimal cell sources and scaffold-cell interactions remain unanswered questions for tissue engineering of heart valves. We assessed the effect of different protein precoatings on a single scaffold type (elastomeric poly (glycerol sebacate)) with a single cell source (endothelial progenitor cells).

Methods and Results—

Elastomeric poly (glycerol sebacate) scaffolds were precoated with laminin, fibronectin, fibrin, collagen types I/III, or elastin. Characterized ovine peripheral blood endothelial progenitor cells were seeded onto scaffolds for 3 days followed by 14 days incubation. Endothelial progenitor cells were CD31
+
, vWF
+
, and α-SMA
−
before seeding confirmed by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. Both precoated and uncoated scaffolds demonstrated surface expression of CD31
+
and vWF
+
, α-SMA
+
cells and were found in the “interstitium” of the scaffold. Protein precoating of elastomeric poly (glycerol sebacate) scaffolds revealed significantly increased cellularity and altered the phenotypes of endothelial progenitor cells, which resulted in changes in cellular behavior and extracellular matrix production. Moreover, mechanical flexure testing demonstrated decreased effective stiffness of the seeded scaffolds compared with unseeded controls.

Conclusions—

Scaffold precoating with extracellular matrix proteins can allow more precise “engineering” of cellular behavior in the development of tissue engineering of heart valves constructs by altering extracellular matrix production and cell phenotype.
A Novel Role of the Sympatho-Adrenergic System in Regulating Valve Calcification
Authors: Osman Lana , Chester Adrian H. , Sarathchandra Padmini , Latif Najma , Meng Wenfang , Taylor Patricia M. , Yacoub Magdi H.
Published: September 2007

Background—

Aortic valve calcification is a progressive process resembling ossification. Recent evidence indicates that the sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in regulating bone deposition and resorption through the β
2
-adrenergic receptors (β
2
-ARs). The aim of this study is to determine the level and pattern of expression of β
2
-ARs in human valve interstitial cells (ICs) and assess their influence on differentiation of the cells into an osteoblast-like phenotype.

Methods and Results—

Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a high expression of β
2
-ARs, β
1
-ARs, β
3
-AR,s and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK) in calcified aortic valves. The expression of β
2
-ARs and β
1
-ARs mRNA was assessed by real-time TaqMan PCR in cultures of human aortic valve ICs. Human valve ICs treated with the selective β
2
-AR agonist, salmeterol, in the presence of osteogenic medium showed a significant 5-fold decrease in the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in comparison to cells treated with osteogenic medium only (
P
<0.05). Immunocytochemical staining of the valve ICs showed a concomitant reduction in osteocalcin expression. In addition, other β
2
-AR agonists caused a reduction in the protein expression of bone markers including ALP, Cbfa-1, and periostin. Human valve ICs treated with norepinephrine, in the presence of osteogenic medium, did not show a significant reduction in the ALP activity.

Conclusions—

These findings suggest an important role of the β
2
-ARs in regulating valve calcification and may identify potential therapeutic targets.
Outcomes of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Versus Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Drug-Eluting Stents for Patients With Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Javaid Aamir , Steinberg Daniel H. , Buch Ashesh N. , Corso Paul J. , Boyce Steven W. , Pinto Slottow Tina L. , Roy Probal K. , Hill Peter , Okabe Teruo , Torguson Rebecca , Smith Kimberly A. , Xue Zhenyi , Gevorkian Natalie , Suddath William O. , Kent Kenneth M. , Satler Lowell F. , Pichard Augusto D. , Waksman Ron
Published: September 2007

Background—

Advances in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents have dramatically improved results of these procedures. The optimal treatment for patients with multivessel coronary artery disease is uncertain given the lack of prospective, randomized data reflecting current practice. This study represents a “real-world” evaluation of current technology in the treatment of multivessel coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results—

A total of 1680 patients undergoing revascularization for multivessel coronary artery disease were identified. Of these, 1080 patients were treated for 2-vessel disease (196 CABG and 884 PCI) and 600 for 3-vessel disease (505 CABG and 95 PCI). One-year mortality, cerebrovascular events, Q-wave myocardial infarction, target vessel failure, and composite major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events were compared between the CABG and PCI cohorts. Outcomes were adjusted for baseline covariates and reported as hazard ratios. The unadjusted major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event rate was reduced with CABG for patients with 2-vessel disease (9.7% CABG versus 21.2% PCI;
P
<0.001) and 3-vessel disease (10.8% CABG versus 28.4% PCI;
P
<0.001). Adjusted outcomes showed increased major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event with PCI for patients with 2-vessel (hazard ratio 2.29; 95% CI 1.39 to 3.76;
P
=0.01) and 3-vessel disease (hazard ratio 2.90; 95% CI 1.76 to 4.78;
P
<0.001). Adjusted outcomes for the nondiabetic subpopulation demonstrated equivalent major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event with PCI for 2-vessel (hazard ratio 1.77; 95% CI 0.96 to 3.25;
P
=0.07) and 3-vessel disease (hazard ratio 1.70; 95% CI 0.77 to 3.61;
P
=0.19).

Conclusions—

Compared with PCI with drug-eluting stents, CABG resulted in improved major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event in patients with 2- and 3-vessel coronary artery disease, primarily in those with underlying diabetes. Coronary artery bypass surgery may be the preferred revascularization strategy in diabetic patients with multivessel coronary artery disease.
Very Long-Term Survival Implications of Heart Valve Replacement With Tissue Versus Mechanical Prostheses in Adults <60 Years of Age
Authors: Ruel Marc , Chan Vincent , Bédard Pierre , Kulik Alexander , Ressler Ladislaus , Lam B. Khanh , Rubens Fraser D. , Goldstein William , Hendry Paul J. , Masters Roy G. , Mesana Thierry G.
Published: September 2007

Background—

Several centers favor replacing a diseased native heart valve with a tissue rather than a mechanical prosthesis, even in younger adult patients. However, long-term data supporting this approach are lacking. We examined the survival implications of selecting a tissue versus a mechanical prosthesis at initial left-heart valve replacement in a cohort of adults <60 years of age who were followed for over 20 years.

Methods and Results—

Comorbid and procedural data were available from 6554 patients who underwent valve replacement at our institution over the last 35 years. Of these, 1512 patients contributed follow-up data beyond 20 years, of whom 567 were adults <60 years of age at first left-heart valve operation (mean survivor follow-up, 24.0±3.1 years). Late outcomes were examined with Cox regression. Valve reoperation, often for prostheses that are no longer commercially available, occurred in 89% and 84% of patients by 20 years after tissue aortic and mitral valve replacement, respectively, and was associated with a mortality of 4.3%. There was no survival difference between patients implanted with a tissue versus a mechanical prosthesis at initial aortic valve replacement (hazard ratio 0.95; 95% CI: 0.7, 1.3;
P
=0.7). For mitral valve replacement patients, long-term survival was poorer than after aortic valve replacement (hazard ratio 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1, 1.8;
P
=0.003), but again no detrimental effect was associated with use of a tissue versus a mechanical prosthesis (hazard ratio 0.9; 95% CI 0.5, 1.4;
P
=0.5).

Conclusions—

In our experience, selecting a tissue prosthesis at initial operation in younger adults does not negatively impact survival into the third decade of follow-up, despite the risk of reoperation.
Intracoronary Administration of AdvFGF-5 (Fibroblast Growth Factor-5) Ameliorates Left Ventricular Dysfunction and Prevents Myocyte Loss in Swine With Developing Collaterals and Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lynch Petra , Lee Te-Chung , Fallavollita James A. , Canty John M. , Suzuki Gen
Published: September 2007

Background—

Fibroblast growth factor (AdvFGF-5) improves regional function by stimulating myocyte hypertrophy without increasing myocardial perfusion in swine with hibernating myocardium. We performed the present study to determine whether AdvFGF-5 could prevent the progression of LV dysfunction in swine with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results—

Swine were chronically instrumented with LAD and LCX stenoses to produce viable dysfunctional myocardium and studied 1 month after instrumentation in the closed-chest sedated state. Flow and regional function before and 30 days after intracoronary AdvFGF-5 (2×10
12
vp, n=9) were compared with animals receiving intracoronary AdvEGFP (2×10
12
vp, n=6). Histological analysis was performed to quantify myocyte size, myocyte nuclear density, apoptosis (TUNEL), and the frequency of myocytes in the proliferative phase of the cell cycle (Ki-67 staining). LAD wall-thickening (27±3 to 46±6%,
P
<0.05) and EF (39±4 to 56±3%,
P
<0.05) increased after AdvFGF-5. AdvFGF-5 increased maximal perfusion during adenosine vasodilation despite no differences in baseline flow or stenosis severity. After AdvFGF-5, TUNEL-positive myocytes decreased 6-fold and Ki-67 positive myocyte nuclei increased 2-fold. As a result, AdvFGF-5 produced a marked increase in myocyte nuclear density (957±54 to 1447±40 nuclei/mm
2
,
P
<0.05).

Conclusion—

These data indicate that AdvFGF-5 increases regional function and maximal perfusion distal to stenotic arteries when administered before the development of collaterals. This was associated with a reduction in myocyte apoptosis, an increase in Ki-67–positive myocytes, and an increase in myocyte number. Thus, AdvFGF-5 offers a potential therapeutic approach to prevent the progression of ischemic cardiomyopathy and heart failure.
Stochastic Modeling of Daily Summertime Rainfall over the Southwestern United States. Part II: Intraseasonal Variability
Authors: Wang Jingyun , Anderson Bruce T. , Salvucci Guido D.
Published: September 2007

The intraseasonal variability of summertime precipitation over the southwestern United States is examined using stochastic daily occurrence models combined with empirical daily rainfall distributions to document 1) the seasonal evolution of the frequency and intensity of rainfall events across the summertime monsoon season and 2) the climatological evolution of wet spells, dry spells, and storm events. Study results indicate that the evolution of the North American monsoon system (NAMS) is most apparent in the occurrence of daily rainfall events, which exhibit clear time dependence across the summer season over the southwestern United States and can be principally portrayed by stochastic models. In contrast, the seasonal evolution of NAMS is largely absent in the averaged daily rainfall amount time series. There is also a significant seasonal evolution in the length of dry spells. In the central area of the domain (approximately 39 out of 78 stations) dry-spell lengths tend to increase over the course of the summer season, while on the western fringe (8 out of 78 stations) dry-spell lengths tend to decrease. In contrast, wet spells tend to exhibit constant lengths over the course of the season (44 out of 78 stations). The seasonal trend for storms indicates that the number and duration of storms tend to decrease in September; however, the storm depths tend to be more intense, particularly over the western portion of the domain. Overall, 90% of the area-averaged variance for dry-spell lengths can be explained by the random daily evolution of the stochastic model alone. For wet-spell lengths, the area-averaged variance explained by the stochastic models is 98% and for storm amounts it is 92%. These results suggest that the characteristics of most intraseasonal events over this region (i.e., spell lengths and storm amounts) can be captured by the random evolution of daily rainfall models, even with constant year-to-year statistical parameters, indicating that systematic variations in the background climatic conditions from one year to the next may contribute little to the characteristics of these events.
Precipitation Extremes Estimated by GPCP and TRMM: ENSO Relationships
Authors: Curtis Scott , Salahuddin Ahmed , Adler Robert F. , Huffman George J. , Gu Guojun , Hong Yang
Published: September 2007

Global monthly and daily precipitation extremes are examined in relation to the El Niño–Southern Oscillation phenomenon. For each month around the annual cycle and in each 2.5° grid block, extremes in the Global Precipitation Climatology Project dataset are defined as the top five (wet) and bottom five (dry) mean rain rates from 1979 to 2004. Over the tropical oceans El Niño–Southern Oscillation events result in a spatial redistribution and overall increase in extremes. Restricting the analysis to land shows that El Niño is associated with an increase in frequency of dry extremes and a decrease in wet extremes resulting in no change in net extreme months. During La Niña an increase in frequency of dry extremes and no change in wet extremes are observed. Thus, because of the juxtaposition of tropical land areas with the ascending branches of the global Walker Circulation, El Niño (La Niña) contributes to generally dry (wet) conditions in these land areas.

In addition, daily rain rates computed from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis are used to define extreme precipitation frequency locally as the number of days within a given season that exceeded the 95th percentile of daily rainfall for all seasons (1998–2005). During this period, the significant relationships between extreme daily precipitation frequency and Niño-3.4 in the Tropics are spatially similar to the significant relationships between seasonal mean rainfall and Niño-3.4. However, to address the shortness of the record extreme daily precipitation frequency is also related to seasonal rainfall for the purpose of identifying regions where positive seasonal rainfall anomalies can be used as proxies for extreme events. Finally, the longer (1979–2005) but coarser Global Precipitation Climatology Project analysis is reexamined to pinpoint regions likely to experience an increase in extreme precipitation during El Niño–Southern Oscillation events. Given the significance of El Niño–Southern Oscillation predictions, this information will enable the efficient use of resources in preparing for and mitigating the adverse effects of extreme precipitation.
A Numerical Modeling System of the Hydrological Cycle for Estimation of Water Fluxes in the Huaihe River Plain Region, China
Authors: Chen Xi , Chen Yongqin David , Zhang Zhicai
Published: September 2007

To analyze the water budget under human influences in the Huaihe River plain region in China, the authors have developed a numerical modeling system that integrates water flux algorithms into a platform created by coupling a soil moisture model with the modular three-dimensional finite-difference groundwater flow model (MODFLOW). The modeling system is largely based on physical laws and employs a numerical method of the finite difference to simulate water movement and fluxes in a horizontally discretized watershed or field. The majority of model parameters carry physical significance and can be determined by field and laboratory measurements or derived from watershed characteristics contained in GIS and remote sensing data. Several other empirical parameters need to be estimated by model calibration. The numerical modeling system is calibrated in the Linhuanji catchment (2 560 km2) to estimate surface runoff, groundwater recharge, and groundwater loss for evapotranspiration and stream baseflow. Model validation is conducted at a small runoff experimental field (1.36 km2) in the Wuduogou Hydrological Experimental Station to test the model’s capability to simulate hydrological components and estimate water fluxes using observed stream stage and groundwater data, as well as lysimeter-measured precipitation recharge and groundwater loss. As proven by the promising results of model testing, this physically based and distributed-parameter model is a valuable contribution to the ever-advancing technology of hydrological modeling and water resources assessment.
Development and Testing of a Frozen Soil Parameterization for Cold Region Studies
Authors: Zhang Xia , Sun Shu Fen , Xue Yongkang
Published: September 2007

Proper simulation of soil freezing and thawing processes is an important issue in cold region climate studies. This paper reports on a frozen soil parameterization scheme for cold region studies that includes water flow and heat transfer in soil with water phase change. The mixed-form Richards’ equation is adopted to describe soil water flow affected by thermal processes in frozen soil. In addition, both liquid water and ice content have been taken into account in the frozen soil hydrologic and thermal property parameterization. To solve the complex nonlinear equation set and to ensure water conservation during simulation of complex phase change processes, efficient computational procedures have been designed and a new modified Picard iteration scheme is extended to solve the mixed-form Richards’ equation with phase change. The frozen soil model was evaluated using observational data from the field station at Rosemount, Minnesota, and the Tibet D66 site. The results show that the model is capable of providing good simulations of the evolution of temperature and liquid water content in frozen soil. Comparisons of simulation results from sensitivity studies indicate that there is a maximum difference of about 50 W m−2 in sensible and ground heat fluxes with and without the inclusion of the effect of ice content on matric potential and that using the exponential relationship between hydraulic conductivity and ice content produces realistic results.
GEWEX Contributions to Large-Scale Hydrometeorology
Authors: Lawford Richard G. , Roads John , Lettenmaier Dennis P. , Arkin Phillip
Published: September 2007

This paper describes how the articles in this special issue support the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) priorities with a specific focus on the advancement of hydrometeorological sciences. It explores how hydrometeorological research has been used to improve process understanding and forecast models, provide datasets for model validation, and support water resource applications. In particular, in this collection of papers, the water balance is considered at both global and watershed scales. In this process the limitations of reanalysis products and inputs to hydrologic models are identified. Some of these limitations arise from the lack of understanding of orographic processes and the best way to incorporate them into models. Several modeling studies reported in this special issue address different aspects of the role of topography in land–atmosphere interaction over mountain systems including the mountains in Asia and North America. Other land processes are considered as well including soil and vegetation processes. A limitation in these modeling studies arises from issues related to model initialization and validation data. One precipitation paper in this collection considers the information on extreme precipitation events that can be extracted from these data while another reports on a new algorithm for observing light rain and drizzle events. As phase II of GEWEX progresses, more emphasis will be placed on the use of GEWEX products to explore climate science questions related to the global energy and water cycle and its applications. Some areas of opportunity for future GEWEX activities include the development of high-resolution integrated products, flux estimates from satellites, and open processes (or test beds) for product improvement.
Response of Seasonal Simulations of a Regional Climate Model to High-Frequency Variability of Soil Moisture during the Summers of 1988 and 1993
Authors: Yang Song , Yoo S-H. , Yang R. , Mitchell K. E. , van den Dool H. , Higgins R. W.
Published: September 2007

This study employs the NCEP Eta Regional Climate Model to investigate the response of the model’s seasonal simulations of summer precipitation to high-frequency variability of soil moisture. Specifically, it focuses on the response of model precipitation and temperature over the U.S. Midwest and Southeast to imposed changes in the diurnal and synoptic variability of soil moisture in 1988 and 1993.

High-frequency variability of soil moisture increases (decreases) precipitation in the 1988 drought (1993 flood) year in the central and southern-tier states, except along the Gulf Coast, but causes smaller changes in precipitation along the northern-tier states. The diurnal variability and synoptic variability of soil moisture produce similar patterns of precipitation change, indicating the importance of the diurnal cycle of land surface process. The increase (decrease) in precipitation is generally accompanied by a decrease (increase) in surface and lower-tropospheric temperatures, and the changes in precipitation and temperature are attributed to both the local effect of evaporation feedback and the remote influence of large-scale water vapor transport. The precipitation increase and temperature decrease in 1988 are accompanied by an increase in local evaporation and, more importantly, by an increase in the large-scale water vapor convergence into the Midwest and Southeast. Analogous but opposite-sign behavior occurs in 1993 (compared to 1988) in changes in precipitation, temperature, soil moisture, evaporation, and large-scale water vapor transport.

Results also indicate that, in regions where the model simulates the diurnal cycle of soil moisture reasonably well, including this diurnal cycle in the simulations improves model performance. However, no notable improvement in model precipitation can be found in regions where the model fails to realistically simulate the diurnal variability of soil moisture.
Global Capital, Local Resistance?
Authors: Downey John , Fenton Natalie
Published: September 2007

The purpose of this article is to analyse the symbolic response of some trade unions in the UK to the `offshoring' of call centre work. The article shows how these responses have drawn extensively upon nationalist rhetoric and that this places unions in a contradictory position with respect to their internationalist objectives. It also shows that the unions' campaigns have been well received by elements of the UK national press, not usually known for their support of union causes and that this can be explained through the unions' adoption of nationalist rhetoric.
State—Capital Relations in Voluntary Environmental Improvement
Authors: MacKendrick Norah A. , Davidson Debra J.
Published: September 2007

The relationship between the environment and society is an increasingly prevalent theme in the study of contemporary social systems, with research often focused on the interactions between capital, environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs) and the state. Ecological Marxist and ecological modernizationist lines of enquiry, for example, both presume that close relations between states and environmental organizations will increase the likelihood of substantive state environmental action. Both also highlight the central role of state—capital relations in environmental transformation, although the latter views this relationship as potentially facilitative, while the former accords a much greater likelihood for environmental degradation resulting from close state—capital relations. Using interview data from a case study of natural resource management in Alberta, the article examines the role of state—capital relations in voluntary environmental improvement efforts. The findings suggest that capital sectors each have a distinct relationship with the state, neither of which abides closely with ecological modernizationist or ecological Marxist conceptions of state—capital relations. The natural resource regulatory regime itself, furthermore, has proven to constrain voluntary environmental improvement efforts, and the marginalization of ENGOs in the environmental policy community has limited the political consideration of alternative development paths. Finally, complexities within the state itself are identified, illustrating significant differences in incentives, costs and relative power among state bureaucratic agencies with the ability to mobilize institutional reform, which then serves to restrict environmental advancement.
From the Citizen's Wage to Self-Made Pensions?
Authors: Bode Ingo
Published: September 2007

Throughout the western world, change is underway in systems of old age provision. The dynamics associated with this are tricky to grasp, however. Pension systems are subject to marketization yet collectivistic attitudes and public interventions persist. This article argues that the dynamics of change can be elucidated when considering the hybrid architecture of what can be labelled the culture of old age provision, with the latter seen as being shaped by two major moral rationales: the idea of pensions being a citizen's wage and the concept of the self-made pension. Comparing two western pension systems (that of Canada and that of Germany) and drawing on evidence concerning both public and non-public pension schemes, the analysis reveals a reconfiguration in the cultural architecture of these systems. The increasing marketization echoes the concept of self-made pensions but remains accompanied by a recalibration in line with the citizen's wage concept, though this occurs in new and country-specific forms. The result is paradoxical to some extent: while there is a tendency towards more liberal institutional designs, with the two-tier pension system becoming a reality in Germany too, the collectivistic impulse may turn out to be more influential in liberal Canada than in corporatist Germany.
Matrimonial Strategies: Social Reproduction and Integration
Authors: Anser Layachi
Published: September 2007

This case study attempts to show how a specific social group used marriage as a strategy for social reproduction and integration. Although it is widely accepted that marriage has always served as a strategy for those purposes, it was not clear how it operated. It was mainly analysed in terms of structural determinants; however, based on empirical evidence this article shows it is important to consider it as a conscious and purposeful social action. Despite the fact that well-resourced individuals like executive personnel may have a large margin for manoeuvre to implement their strategies, empirical evidence suggests that marriage is not an individual project even among elites. The family continues to manage social reproduction, integration and coordinate individuals' projects and strategies through marriage and education. Its direct intervention may have diminished in the new context, but it has by no means withered away.
Sorting the Wheat from the Chaff
Authors: Callahan Carolyn M. , Moon Tonya R.
Published: September 2007

To provide an overview of the specific components that must be considered when making decisions about research in the field of gifted education, the authors describe and evaluate the three types of evidence— speculative or anecdotal, theoretical, and empirical—commonly offered in the literature of the field. Empirical, or evidence-based, research can be quantitative or qualitative (or mixed methods); it also can be interventional or non-interventional. An explanation and example of each type of empirical evidence are provided, along with key guidelines for reviewing and judging each one. Next, the authors offer general considerations for evaluating specific components of research, regardless of the type of study (e.g., source of evidence, research design, research questions, effect size, sample, instrumentation). Considerations for judging meta-analyses are also offered.
Practising history
Authors: Lorenz Walter
Published: September 2007

English

This article calls for open-minded, critical research into the history of social work and a recognition of the discontinuities and diversity that are evident in its development and current forms. Social work as historical practice is about applying hermeneutic skills in order to create shared understandings that engage with issues of identity and culture.

French

Cet article plaide en faveur d’une recherche critique et ouverte à l’égard de l’histoire du travail social et d’une reconnaissance des ruptures et de la diversité qui sont manifestes dans son cours et aujourd’hui. La pratique historique du travail social consiste en l’application de l’herméneutique afin de créer une compréhension partagée sous-tendue par les enjeux d’identité et de culture.

Spanish

Este artículo convoca a una mentalidad abierta, a la investigació n crítica sobre la historia del trabajo social y al reconocimiento de las discontinuidades y diversidad que son evidentes en su desarrollo y formas actuales. El trabajo social, como prá ctica histó rica, está llamado a aplicar las herramientas hermenéuticas, a fin de crear comprensiones compartidas que se vinculen con los temas de identidad y cultura.
Linking critical reflection and qualitative research on an African social work master's programme
Authors: Askeland Gurid Aga , Bradley Greta
Published: September 2007

English

This article describes concepts of critical reflection, critical incident and qualitative research methods that were taught on a master’s social work programme in an African state, by European colleagues. Student evaluation suggests that they had learned the importance of contextualizing social work knowledge.

French

Cet article passe en revue les notions de réflexion critique et les méthodes de recherche qualitative et d’incident critique qui ont é té enseignées par des collègues européens dans le cadre d’un programme de maîtrise d’un état africain. L’évaluation de l’étudiant laisse entendre qu’on a saisi l’importance de mettre en contexte le savoir en travail social.

Spanish

Este artículo describe los conceptos de reflexió n crítica, incidente crítico y métodos de investigació n cualitativa, que fueron enseñ ados en un programa de maestría en trabajo social en un estado africano, por colegas europeos. La evaluació n de los estudiantes sugiere que aprendieron la importancia de contextualizar el conocimiento en trabajo social.
The Desirability Paradox in the Effects of Media Literacy Training
Authors: Austin Erica Weintraub , Pinkleton Bruce E. , Funabiki Ruth Patterson
Published: September 2007

This study examines a paradox in findings regarding the effects of media literacy training on adolescents' decision making about tobacco use. Recent experiments have found that media literacy training successfully reduced participants' beliefs associated with risky behavior, whereas at the same time, their positive affect toward individuals portrayed in advertising increased. Study results confirm the hypothesis that media literacy training changes the way individuals think about the desirability of portrayals in the media. Although desirability usually represents individuals' affect toward portrayals, reports gathered after media literacy training also appear to reflect participants' increased awareness of the efforts made by advertisers to produce attractive portrayals designed to sell products and services. This awareness reduces or eliminates the impact that positive affect otherwise would have on decision making. Because this analysis suggests that individuals may respond to survey questions differently depending on their level of skill or involvement, the results raise important issues regarding issues of reliability and validity that may extend well beyond tests of this theoretical model or particular evaluation.
Do Groups Know What They Don't Know? Dealing With Missing Information in Decision-Making Groups
Authors: Henningsen David Dryden , Henningsen Mary Lynn Miller
Published: September 2007

Although scholars have examined how individuals deal with information that is unavailable on decision-making tasks, little research has explored how groups deal with missing information. The present study proposes two ways groups can address information that is unavailable: by employing a diminished information set or by inferring the value of missing information. Both of these approaches are tested using an information sharing task. Groups are compared with information unavailable to any member, available but unshared among group members (i.e., hidden profile), and available and shared among all group members. Evidence indicates that group members may utilize both strategies to deal with missing information.
Spatial Inequality in Productivity in the European Union: Sectoral and Regional Factors
Authors: Ezcurra Roberto , Pascual Pedro , Rapún Manuel
Published: September 2007

To gain a deeper insight into territorial imbalances existing in the European Union, the authors analyzedthe evolution of regional disparitiesin productivity between 1977 and 1999. The results obtained reveal an overall decrease in regional inequality in productivity throughout the study period, even though the density functions estimated suggest the existence of some degree of polarization in the regional distribution of output per worker. The article also examines the role played by sectoral and regional factorsin productivity convergence, using a combination of shift-share analysis and various theoretical results obtained in the literature on personal income distribution. The analysis shows that regional inequality in output per worker in the European Unionis closelylinkedtointrinsic dif ferences between regions. Likewise,the empirical evidence highlights the importance of the national component and spatial location in accounting for observed dif ferences in sectoral productivity across the European regions. Finally, the findings supportthe relevance of one-sector growth modelsto explain per capitaincome disparitiesinthe European context.
Mobility and Mean Reversion in the Dynamics of Regional Inequality
Authors: Beenstock Michael , Felsenstein Daniel
Published: September 2007

The literature on regional growth convergence and economic disparities has tended to confound four interwoven measurement phenomena: 1) mean reversion (so-called beta convergence)—richer regions move towards the average from above and poorer regions from below; 2) diminishing inequality (so called sigma convergence)—the horizontal or spatial distribution of income becomes more equal; 3) mobility—the rank of a region in the overall distribution of income changes either upwards or downwards; and 4) leveling—the richer regions become poorer (leveling-down) or the poorer regions become richer (leveling-up). We use a new statistical methodology that treats these four phenomena on an integrated basis. The methodology is applied to Israeli regional earnings. We show that regional earnings are Gini divergent, but after adjusting earnings for regional cost-of-living differential, this picture is reversed. In the absence of genuine cost-of-living data, a simple and practical method is proposed, whereby regional house price data are used to proxy regional cost-of-living differentials.
The Advanced Modern Apprenticeship project in London 2003—2005
Authors: Brown Angela
Published: September 2007

This article discusses the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship (AMA) project, a diversity initiative which aimed to encourage young minority ethnic people to develop careers in the criminal justice sector. The author argues that the positive results that were achieved should lead to replication and expansion of the initiative.
Pregnancy and coerced drug treatment services: A cause for concern?
Authors: Bloor Roger , Okolo Dennis , Watts Derrett
Published: September 2007

This article considers the results of a retrospective study comparing pregnancy rates in one Drug Testing and Treatment Order (DTTO) service in the United Kingdom with pregnancy rates in a generic substance misuse service and national conception rates. Conception rates were found to be six times higher in the coerced drug treatment group compared to the general population and generic drug services over the same period. These higher pregnancy rates may possibly be accounted for by an interplay of several factors including improved physical health, improvements in menstrual cycle regularity, better social interactions or intrinsic nature of the treatment regime in the clinics. The results of the study have implications for the criminal justice, health and other services involved in the care of these patients.
Pilot study of a neurophysiological dysphagia therapy for neurological patients
Authors: Seidl Rainer O , Nusser-Müller-Busch Ricki , Hollweg Wibke , Westhofen Martin , Ernst Arne
Published: September 2007

Objective: To investigate the success of a neurophysiological dysphagia therapy in patients with neurological disorders.

Design: A pre- and post-intervention group study.

Setting: Acute rehabilitation unit.

Subjects: Ten patients (swallowing rate <1/5 minutes, Frühreha—Barthel Index <—150, tracheostomy as a result of a swallowing disorder) with dysphagia as a result of a head injury or cerebral haemorrhage.

Interventions: Therapy was given based on facio-oral tract therapy for three weeks (15 sessions of 1 hour each).

Measures: The general scales used were the Frühreha—Barthel Index and Coma Remission Scale. Measures of swallowing rate, alertness and swallowing ability were undertaken before, during and after the treatment sessions and at intervals of 30 minutes for 2 hours after the treatment sessions.

Results: On the treatment days, the therapy did not lead to an increase in swallowing rate, but did lead to a significant increase in alertness. After completion of a single treatment session, there was a statistically significant decrease in alertness and swallowing rate for 90 minutes. An increase in alertness (Frühreha—Barthel Index and Coma Remission Scale), swallowing ability (measured using an endoscopic examination) and protection of the respiratory tract was observed over the entire therapy period.

Conclusion: Facio-oral tract therapy led to a statistically significant increase in alertness during the treatment session and, over the entire therapy period, to an increase in swallowing rate, alertness and swallowing ability. The decrease in alertness following therapy sessions must be taken into account in planning rehabilitative measures. Further studies on larger populations as well as studies currently in progress should further elucidate the strategies employed to rehabilitate dysphagic patients.