bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Ciprofloxacin/Dexamethasone versus Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone on Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Experimental Otitis Media
Authors: Dattaray Piali , Pudrith Charles , Nyc Mary Ann , Martin Dusan , Kim You Hyun , Jahng Patrick , Chung You Sun , Wall G. Michael , Jung Timothy
Published: April 2011

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to compare the effect of topical ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone versus topical ciprofloxacin/hydrocortisone on the outcome of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)–induced otitis media with effusion in chinchillas.

Study Design

A randomized experimental animal study.

Setting

Jerry L. Pettis Veteran’s Medical Center.

Subjects and Methods

Otitis media with effusion was induced in 5 groups of chinchillas, 6 per group, by injecting 0.3 mL (1 mg/mL) ofSalmonella entericLPS into the superior bullae of each chinchilla with a venting needle in place. Each group was treated with 0.2 mL of test substance at −2, 24, 48, and 72 hours relative to the 0‐hour LPS induction. Group 1 was treated with vehicle control. Groups 2 to 5 received 0.3% ciprofloxacin with either 0.1% dexamethasone (group 2), 1% dexamethasone (group 3), 0.1% hydrocortisone (group 4), or 1% hydrocortisone (group 5). The outcome of each treatment was measured by the amount of middle ear effusion present and mucosal thickness at 120 hours posttreatment.

Results

Ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone 1% significantly (P=. 0150) reduced middle ear effusion compared with control. Ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone 1% significantly reduced the mucosal thickness when compared with vehicle control (P=. 0005), ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone 0.1% (P=. 0240), and ciprofloxacin/hydrocortisone 0.1% (P= 1.00). Results also showed a dose‐response effect between the ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone concentrations.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that treatment with a combination of topical ciprofloxacin and corticosteroid decreased the middle ear effusion when compared with the control group and that ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone suspension reduced the severity of LPS‐induced experimental otitis media more than ciprofloxacin/hydrocortisone did.
Pseudomonas Biofilm Formation after Haemophilus Infection
Authors: Ojano‐Dirain Carolyn , Antonelli Patrick J.
Published: April 2011

Objectives

Tympanostomy tube (TT) biofilm formation may lead to refractory otorrhea and occlusion. Biofilms are commonly composed of multiple microbial species. One species may promote or inhibit biofilm formation by other species. The aim of this study was to determine if Haemophilus influenzae (HI) promotes the development of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) biofilm on TTs.

Study Design

Controlled, in vitro.

Setting

Academic research laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

Fluoroplastic TTs (20 per group) were exposed to plasma, allowed to dry, and cultured with HI for 7 days. TTs were either gas sterilized or treated for 24 hours with 10 or 3000 µg/mL ciprofloxacin. Half of the TTs from each treatment group underwent bacterial counts or scanning electron microscopy. The remainder, as well as TTs not exposed to HI, were cultured with PA for 4 days and treated with gentamicin to kill planktonic PA. Biofilm formation was quantified with bacterial counts.

Results

TTs treated with ciprofloxacin 3000 µg/mL had lower HI counts than TTs treated with 10 µg/mL (P =. 0001), but viable HI persisted. PA biofilm formation on TTs with prior HI biofilm and treated with ciprofloxacin 10 µg/mL or gas sterilization was not different than TTs without HI. Less PA biofilm formed on TTs with HI treated with 3 mg/mL ciprofloxacin (P =. 002).

Conclusions

HI biofilm does not promote PA biofilm formation on TTs. Use of high‐dose ototopical therapy to clear HI may reduce subsequent PA biofilm formation.
Culturally Competent Qualitative Research With Latino Immigrants
Authors: Ojeda Lizette , Flores Lisa Y. , Meza Rocio Rosales , Morales Alejandro
Published: April 2011

This article provides recommendations for conducting culturally competent qualitative research with Latino immigrants, a historically exploited group that represents more than half of all U.S. immigrants and is continuously growing. Limited research exists on Latino immigrants despite their large presence in the United States. The authors draw upon their qualitative research experiences to help researchers develop culturally competent awareness, knowledge, and skills in studying Latino immigrants. Recommendations are grounded by integrating Latino cultural values in the research process. Issues related to developing a research team, recruiting participants, using incentives, informed consent procedures, and language issues are addressed. Suggestions for developing interview protocols and conducting culturally competent in-person interviews are provided.
Does Acculturation Matter?: Food Insecurity and Child Problem Behavior Among Low-Income, Working Hispanic Households
Authors: Gorman Kathleen S. , Kondo Zearley Karli , Favasuli Stephen
Published: April 2011

Recent literature has noted that in some cases, less acculturation may be protective against adverse outcomes. This study sought to clarify the relationships between acculturation, food insecurity, and child outcomes. A sample of 339 low-income participants, comprised of non-Hispanic Whites ( n = 171), English-speaking Hispanics ( n = 89), and Spanish-speaking Hispanics ( n = 79) were surveyed on food security and parental reports of child behavior problems. Results showed that Spanish-speaking Hispanics were at a social and economic disadvantage in comparison to non-Hispanic Whites and to English-speaking Hispanics. Spanish-speaking Hispanics reported significantly more concern and the least satisfaction with their children’s physical health and had the highest rates of food insecurity. In contrast, on parental reports of child behavior, non-Hispanic Whites were significantly more likely to report problem behavior than either Hispanic group. Overall, the findings do not support the protective role of lower acculturation for Hispanic households. Implications of these findings in light of current research are discussed.
The Organizational Correlates of Terrorism Response Preparedness in Local Police Departments
Authors: Randol Blake M.
Published: April 2011

Since the development of homeland security, scholars have debated the relationship between community-oriented policing and homeland security innovations in local police departments. Most of the literature that assesses this relationship has been “conjecture or anecdotal,” and few studies have systematically measured these impacts. Few studies have examined the influence that organizational structures and administrative factors have on terrorism response preparedness among local law enforcement agencies. To fill these gaps, this study evaluates a national sample of local police agencies drawn from the Bureau of Justice Statistics’ 2003 Law Enforcement Management and Administrative Statistics (LEMAS) Survey. Results show that community policing efforts are positively correlated with terrorism preparedness efforts. Results also show that a number of organizational factors including organization size, budget per capita, and functional differentiation were positively correlated with terrorism preparedness, whereas formalization and spatial differentiation were negatively correlated.
Effects of Immediate Feedback Delivered via Webcam and Bug-in-Ear Technology on Preservice Teacher Performance
Authors: Scheeler Mary Catherine , McKinnon Kathleen , Stout Jonathan
Published: April 2011

University faculty and supervisors dedicated to the preparation of future teachers are facing more challenges than ever before in doing more with less. This includes supervising more preservice teachers in more schools, spread out over a wide geographic area. Feedback is essential to learning, and recent research suggests that the most effective feedback is immediate rather than delayed. New advances in technology may make the job of supervision more efficient and when used to provide immediate feedback, more effective as well. Research was conducted to evaluate the effects of using webcams and Bluetooth™ technology to deliver immediate feedback to special education preservice teachers in practicum placements from remote locations. Results suggest that immediate feedback provided via this technology was effective in increasing the targeted technique in all five preservice teachers who participated in the study. Each participant rated the intervention as acceptable. Implications for classroom application are discussed.
Environment
Authors: Banfield Barbara E.
Published: April 2011

In this column the author presents an examination of Orem’s conceptualization of environment as a metaparadigm concept, the role of environment in the theoretical structure of the self-care deficit nursing theory, and the creation of a developmental environment as one of the ways of helping another. Suggestions for further work related to the conceptualization of environment and the organization of existent knowledge are provided. Application of the concept of nursing agency and the environmental factor of healthcare system illustrate the utility of self-care deficit nursing theory in relation to the recommendations for changes in nursing education and for redesign of the healthcare system.
The Research Environment
Authors: Poradzisz Michele , Kostovich Carol
Published: April 2011

The environment in which research is conducted can present many challenges to data collection. This is the story of a research project that was designed to investigate the influence of personality type on the satisfaction of preceptors and new graduate nurses with the orientation process. Despite many adaptations in the data collection protocol, the researchers were not able to obtain enough data from participants to answer the research question. Challenges presented by the data collection site are described and suggestions are offered for consideration.
Humanbecoming Leading-Following
Authors: Parse Rosemarie Rizzo
Published: April 2011

In this column, readers are invited to reflect upon leadership and the meaning of leading-following from the perspective of Parse’s humanbecoming school of thought, using the metaphor of holding up the mirror.
Theory and Advanced Practice Nursing
Authors: Karnick Paula M.
Published: April 2011

The purpose of this column is to show the differences and similarities between theory and process. A process outlined by the authors is related to caring.
Employee, Mother, and Partner
Authors: Dunn Marianne G. , Rochlen Aaron B. , O’Brien Karen M.
Published: April 2011

Married couples consisting of female breadwinners and male primary caretakers are increasing in prevalence and visibility. However, little is known about the experiences of these families, particularly about salient challenges and dynamics related to this work–family arrangement. Through inductive qualitative analysis, the current study investigated the identity and adjustment experiences of this subset of working mothers. Fifty-one women responded to open-ended questions about their work and family experiences. The results highlighted psychological, vocational, and sociocultural phenomena related to this particular work–family arrangement including reasons guiding career and family decisions, positive and negative adjustment experiences, and perceptions of stigma. Relevant clinical and workplace policy implications also are provided.
Siloxane-based polymers as protective coatings against SO2 dry deposition
Authors: Simionescu Bogdana , Olaru Mihaela , Aflori Magda , Doroftei Florica
Published: April 2011

The present research was focused on investigating the ability of different siloxane-based polymeric coatings to provide environmental protection to monumental limestone (Repedea from Romania) used in the north-eastern part of Romania for the construction of many stone monuments. Three siloxane-based polymers used throughout the world in protecting stone monuments, namely Lotexan-N, Silres® BS 290 and Tegosivin HL 100 and a newly designed hybrid nanocomposite containing silsesquioxane units (TMSPMA) were selected as polymeric coatings. The ability of the coatings to protect the stone from dry SO2 deposition in the presence of humidity in a standardized accelerated ageing test was determined. A comparative study of the obtained results indicates that the stone samples treated with the new hybrid siloxane-based nanocomposite exhibited improved resistance to degradation after being exposed to a SO2 saturated atmosphere.
Tempting Fate or Inviting Happiness?
Authors: Murray Sandra L. , Griffin Dale W. , Derrick Jaye L. , Harris Brianna , Aloni Maya , Leder Sadie
Published: April 2011

This article examines whether unrealistically viewing a romantic partner as resembling one’s ideal partner accelerates or slows declines in marital satisfaction among newlyweds. A longitudinal study linked unrealistic idealization at the time of marriage to changes in satisfaction over the first 3 years of marriage. Overall, satisfaction declined markedly, a finding that is consistent with past research. However, seeing a less-than-ideal partner as a reflection of one’s ideals predicted a certain level of protection against the corrosive effects of time: People who initially idealized their partner the most experienced no decline in satisfaction. The benefits of idealization remained in analyses that controlled separately for the positivity of partner perceptions and the possibility that better adjusted people might be in better relationships.
Asymmetry in Resting Intracortical Activity as a Buffer to Social Threat
Authors: Koslov Katrina , Mendes Wendy Berry , Pajtas Petra E. , Pizzagalli Diego A.
Published: April 2011

Social rejection can create powerful changes in people’s brains and bodies. In the study reported here, we examined brain-based individual differences associated with buffering against cardiovascular threat responses to social rejection. Using EEG source-localization techniques, we examined differences in intracortical asymmetry. We predicted that individuals with greater left relative to right dorsolateral prefrontal activity would show a more approach-motivated response to social rejection. Eighty-four female participants were randomly assigned to one of three stressful situations: social rejection, social evaluation without rejection, or self-evaluation. Among participants assigned to the social-rejection condition, greater left relative to right prefrontal intracortical activity at baseline was associated with more adaptive cardiovascular profiles and more self-reported approach-oriented emotions. Participants in the other conditions did not show these relationships. Our data are the first to show that social context matters when attempting to link individual differences in cortical asymmetry with approach-related cardiovascular and emotional outcomes.
Effects of Age on Time-Dependent Cognitive Change
Authors: Salthouse Timothy A.
Published: April 2011

Interpretation of cognitive change has been complicated because different influences on change are not easily distinguished. In this study, longitudinal cognitive change was decomposed into a component related to the length of the interval between test occasions (i.e., time-dependent change) and a component unrelated to the test-retest interval (i.e., time-independent change). Influences of age on the two hypothesized components were investigated in a sample of more than 1,500 adults for whom the intervals between test occasions ranged from less than 1 year to more than 8 years. Although overall change was negatively related to age for all seven composite cognitive variables, little or no effect of age was apparent for the time-dependent component of change. The results suggest that the relations between age and cognitive change over intervals of less than 8 years are largely influenced by factors operating at or near the initial test occasion.
Development and Psychometric Validation of the Family Outcomes Survey-Revised
Authors: Bailey Donald B. , Raspa Melissa , Olmsted Murrey G. , Novak Scott P. , Sam Ann M. , Humphreys Betsy P. , Nelson Robin , Robinson Nyle , Guillen Chelsea
Published: April 2011

Few psychometrically valid scales exist to assess family outcomes and the helpfulness of early intervention. This article describes the development and psychometric properties of the Family Outcomes Survey—Revised. The revision was prompted by the need to (a) create a new format that would be easier for parents to understand, (b) revise and expand the survey items to provide more information for states to use in planning for program improvement, and (c) demonstrate acceptable psychometric properties. Input from stakeholders and experts was used to identify concepts and develop candidate items. Data from a web-based survey conducted with 265 families in Illinois and Texas were used to assess the psychometric properties of candidate items. These activities produced a revised survey with sound psychometric integrity that can be used to document family outcomes and identify areas for program improvement.
Language and Reading Outcomes in Young Children Adopted From Eastern European Orphanages
Authors: Hough Susan D. , Kaczmarek Louise
Published: April 2011

In recent years, many children from Eastern European orphanages have been adopted by families in the United States. When children begin life with their new families, they experience an abrupt language shift in which the learning of their native language halts as the learning of the new language commences. Without the support of their native language, their language-learning experiences differ from those of most children learning English as a second language. To better support these children in their language learning, the language and reading achievement of 44 children adopted from Eastern European orphanages were clinically assessed with standardized tests and natural-language samples to determine the extent and types of problems present in the areas of language (i.e., overall spoken language, receptive language, morphology, semantics, syntax, pragmatics) and reading. Orphanage, adoption, and individual factors that might be associated with language/reading achievement were also explored. As a group, the adopted children performed lower than age expectations on all measures. Language impairments and reading deficits were apparent in about one third of the children, with nearly 14% demonstrating significant deficiencies in both language and reading. Several orphanage and adoption factors were associated with reading outcomes. Recommendations for assessment and intervention are provided.
Assessing the Interpersonal Circumplex Model in Late Childhood
Authors: Di Blas Lisa , Grassi Michele , Luccio Riccardo , Momentè Silvia
Published: April 2011

The authors developed the Interpersonal Behavior Questionnaire for Children with the aim of assessing the constructs of the interpersonal circumplex model, that is, Dominance and Love and their possible combinations, via third- to fifth-grade children’s self- and peer reports. In the three studies presented herein, the authors examined several psychometric properties of the questionnaire. Results demonstrated that children’s ratings along the questionnaire yielded the hypothesized circumplex structure of the interpersonal variables; that they reached significant association levels with external criteria; and that they were reliable. Specifically, interrater correlations were shown to reach substantive levels when inspected in older children, when scores were aggregated over raters, and when dominant behaviors were evaluated. Overall, the findings demonstrated the tenability of the circumplex model in young ages via children’s ratings. The authors suggest that both personality assessment and personality development research may take advantage from using children’s evaluations, in addition to adults’ ratings of their children’s personality.
Modified Test Administration Using Assistive Technology
Authors: Warschausky Seth , Van Tubbergen Marie , Asbell Shana , Kaufman Jacqueline , Ayyangar Rita , Donders Jacobus
Published: April 2011

This study examined the psychometric properties of test presentation and response formats that were modified to be accessible with the use of assistive technology (AT). First, the stability of psychometric properties was examined in 60 children, ages 6 to 12, with no significant physical or communicative impairments. Population-specific differences were then examined with samples that included 24 children with cerebral palsy and matched control peers. Children were administered standard and modified versions of tests. The type of AT access did not have a statistically significant effect on modified test scores. Measurement stability between the standard and modified versions of quadrant forced-choice format tests was sufficient. The findings support the potential use of AT and accessible procedures for some test instruments in the assessment of children with cerebral palsy.
An Examination of Power and Type I Errors for Two Differential Item Functioning Indices Using the Graded Response Model
Authors: Clark Patrick C. , LaHuis David M.
Published: April 2011

This study examined two methods for detecting differential item functioning (DIF): Raju, van der Linden, and Fleer’s 1995 differential functioning of items and tests (DFIT) procedure and Thissen, Steinberg, and Wainer’s 1988 likelihood ratio test (LRT). The major research questions concerned which test provides the best balance of Type I errors and power and if the tests differ in terms of detecting different types of DIF. Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to address these questions. Equal and unequal sample size conditions were fully crossed with test lengths of 10 and 20 items. In addition, α and β parameters were manipulated in order to simulate DIF. Findings indicate that DFIT and LRT both had acceptable Type I error rates when sample sizes were equal but that DFIT produced too many Type I errors when sample sizes were unequal. Overall, the LRT exhibited greater power to detect both α and β parameter DIF than did DFIT. However, DFIT was more powerful than LRT when the last two β parameters had DIF as opposed to when the extreme β parameters had DIF.
Positive Behavior Support for a Child With Inattentive Behavior in a Japanese Regular Classroom
Authors: Baba Chiharu , Tanaka-Matsumi Junko
Published: April 2011

Nondisruptive problem behaviors exist to a large extent in group-oriented Japanese regular classrooms. However, many children remain untreated. We implemented an antecedent-based functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and developed a behavioral support program for a first-grade boy who exhibited inattentive behavior in a Japanese regular classroom. Working collaboratively with the classroom teacher, we assisted the classroom teacher gain whole-class or individual attention before expressing whole-class demands. The child’s behavior improved and the teacher evaluated our behavioral collaboration favorably. We continue to use FBA with other children in Japanese classrooms with teachers as main change agents.
Associations of calf skeletal muscle characteristics and peripheral nerve function with self-perceived physical functioning and walking ability in persons with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Evans Natalie S , Liu Kiang , Criqui Michael H , Ferrucci Luigi , Guralnik Jack M , Lu Tian  , Yihua Liao  , McDermott Mary M
Published: April 2011

We determined whether more adverse calf muscle characteristics and poorer peripheral nerve function were associated with impairments in self-perceived physical functioning and walking ability in persons with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD). Participants included 462 persons with PAD; measures included the ankle—brachial index (ABI), medical history, electrophysiologic characteristics of nerves, and computed tomography of calf muscle. Self-perceived physical functioning and walking ability were assessed using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ). Results were adjusted for age, sex, race, ABI, body mass index, comorbidities, and other confounders. Lower calf muscle area was associated with a poorer SF-36 physical function (PF) score (overall p-trend < 0.001, 33.76 PF score for the lowest quartile versus 59.74 for the highest, pairwise p < 0.001) and a poorer WIQ walking distance score ( p-trend = 0.001, 29.71 WIQ score for the lowest quartile versus 48.43 for the highest, pairwise p < 0.001). Higher calf muscle percent fat was associated with a poorer SF-36 PF score ( p-trend < 0.001, 53.76 PF score for the lowest quartile versus 40.28 for the highest, pairwise p = 0.009). Slower peroneal nerve conduction velocity was associated with a poorer WIQ speed score ( p-trend = 0.023, 30.49 WIQ score for the lowest quartile versus 40.48 for the highest, pairwise p = 0.031). In summary, adverse calf muscle characteristics and poorer peripheral nerve function are associated significantly and independently with impairments in self-perceived physical functioning and walking ability in PAD persons.
Position and potential of service-dominant logic - Evaluated in an ‘ism’ frame for further development
Authors: Löbler Helge
Published: April 2011

This work offers a framework for researchers by linking service-dominant (S-D) logic to an intersubjective stream of philosophy of science. Service-dominant logic has resonated in marketing, but no existing research has attempted to link S-D logic with basic meta-theory to provide a framework. Since the range of philosophies of science (isms) referred to in the marketing literature is broad, varying from ‘realism’ to ‘relativism’, from ‘positivism’ to ‘constructivism’ and from ‘structuralism’ to ‘post-structuralism/postmodernism’, first the different isms are grouped into four main groups/streams and then S-D logic is analyzed and classified according to these streams. The four streams are: object-orientation (realism, positivism, empiricism, and so on); subject orientation (constructivism, interpretivism, and so forth); intersubjective orientation (social constructionism, pancritical rationalism, methodological constructivism, and so on); and sign orientation (post-structuralism, postmodernism, and variations). S-D logic is mainly underpinned by an intersubjective orientation and has a huge potential for further development both in and for marketing if seen from a sign-orientated, post-structural perspective and linked to the theory of practices.
Theorizing about the service dominant logic: The bridging role of middle range theory
Authors: Brodie Roderick J. , Saren Michael , Pels Jaqueline
Published: April 2011

To date, the discourse about service dominant (S-D) logic has been largely theoretical, with the main focus on exploring the foundations for an integrating general theory of markets and marketing. Little attention has been given to the role of theorizing, and how empirical evidence can be used to inform the theoretical development. This paper explores the bridging role of middle range theory in this process. First S-D logic is examined as a foundation for general theory. This leads to a discussion about the use of middle range theory to link general theory and empirical findings. The following sections examine the role that contemporary marketing practices (CMP) research plays in providing a bridge between S-D logic and empirical evidence. The paper concludes by considering implications for further research.
Discourses of land allocation and natural property rights: Land entrepreneurialism and informal settlements in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Blanco Andres G.
Published: April 2011

In planning theory, four discourses frame collective decisions about land allocation: market, rational-comprehensive, participation, and resistance. Ideally, these discourses should function as a system of checks and balances in which each one limits the potential failings of the others. The case of Bogotá, Colombia shows that instead of balancing each other, these discourses collude into ‘land entrepreneurialism’, a dynamic that privatizes the benefits of city growth and socializes its costs creating a pattern of scarcity of urban services and incentivizing informal settlements. In this framework, informality is a system of co-optation that neutralizes the resistance of the poor through ‘pirate subdivisions’, which are, in fact, ‘the privatization of squatting’. Because land entrepreneurialism is engendered in the institution of property as a natural right and the power relations that it produces, addressing informality entails more than its ‘formalization’. It entails the creation of a new type of formality based on a broader notion of property rights.
Participatory action research as the approach for women’s empowerment
Authors: Aziz Ayesha , Shams Meenaz , Khan Kausar S
Published: April 2011

Women’s empowerment is recognized as an imperative for achieving women’s rights, health and development. The achievement of women’s empowerment as an end goal or even initiation of the process necessitates usage of approaches that promote participation and incite action. The Community Health Sciences Department (CHS) of Aga Khan University Karachi that is part of a five-component study (including four Asian countries) titled ‘Women’s Empowerment in Muslim Contexts’ (WEMC), used the participatory action research approach for women’s empowerment. Work with communities entailed reflection, analysis and action not only to create knowledge but for education, development of consciousness and mobilization for action. We adapted the participatory rural appraisal (PRA) tools to explore women’s perceptions and reflections on their existent situation and aspired needs with respect to empowerment, community’s overall health, mental health, reproductive health, daily work load, access to resources, participation in decision-making and violence against women. Our experience emerged as a five-step model of participatory action research for women’s empowerment that included steps of field inquiry, analysis for action, advocacy training, policy dialogue and tracking action for change. Reflections on this model can serve as a learning instrument for those engaged with community based work and social transformation.
From ‘Pictures’ to Formats: Interview with Albert Moran, Brisbane, June 13, 2008, Revised April 2010
Authors: King Noel
Published: April 2011

In the following interview Albert Moran discusses his cultural-educational formation in the fields of film and television studies, moving from Dublin, Ireland, to Sydney, Australia, and becoming one of the ‘first wave’ of tertiary education teachers of film and television in Australia. His connection to teriary education institutions in Perth, Western Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Sydney, NSW, and Brisbane, Queensland is discused, as is his connection to international dvelopmenst in film and television studies in Canada and the UK. He mentions the many colleagues with whom he has worked and collaborated on research projects, and indicates the critical paradigms that have influenced his various book publications over a period of thirty years.
Human Capital, Efficiency, and Innovative Adaptation as Strategic Determinants of Firm Performance
Authors: Mahsud Rubina , Yukl Gary , Prussia Gregory E.
Published: April 2011

This study used flexible leadership theory (FLT) as a basis to examine the extent to which a firm’s long-term financial prosperity depends on three performance determinants: human capital, efficiency, and innovative adaptation. Based on FLT predictions, we expected that the effect of human capital on firm performance would be mediated by efficiency and innovative adaptation. We compared the theoretical model with two alternative models using structural equation modeling. The sample involved 104 Fortune 500 firms across 15 industries over a 10-year period. Information on financial indicators was obtained from the Research Insight database (Compustat), and ratings of human capital talent were obtained from a Fortune data set (America’s Most Admired Companies). Results indicated that the effects of human capital on long-term financial performance were partially mediated by efficiency and innovative adaptation.
Radioulnar laxity and clinical outcome do not correlate after a distal radius fracture
Authors: Scheer J. H. , Adolfsson L. E.
Published: April 2011

Injury to the triangular fibrocartilage complex associated with distal radius fracture may cause symptoms of ulnar instability. Assessed by a radioulnar stress test, increased laxity of the distal radioulnar joint has in two previous studies been depicted to be associated with poorer outcome. This prospective study of 40 adults investigates the correlation of this test with functional outcome as measured by DASH. No clinically significant difference was found in relation to this test at two and five years after injury. Therefore using this test alone to decide whether or not to perform an acute repair of the TFCC cannot be recommended.
A new surgical approach to Dupuytren’s disease
Authors: Edmunds I. , Chien C.
Published: April 2011

We present a new surgical approach for Dupuytren’s disease which overcomes some of the problems seen with traditional approaches. The approach is simple but allows full exposure and accommodates all options for closure. It comprises transverse incisions at the skin creases of the digit joined by oblique incisions at 45°. The transverse incisions can be extended to the mid-axial line for improved exposure and skin release and to lateralize the apices of the scar. After excision of the disease and correction of the contracture the wound can be assessed and closed primarily, with advancement flaps or skin grafts, or left partially open. This study includes surgery on 105 rays in 75 patients with excellent results in 80 rays, good results in 20 rays, fair results in four rays and a poor result in one ray. There was only one significant complication.
Neural and Developmental Bases of the Ability to Recognize Social Signals of Emotions
Authors: Leppänen Jukka M.
Published: April 2011

Humans in diverse cultures develop a capacity to recognize and share others’ emotional states. In this article, studies in adult and developmental populations are reviewed and synthesized to build a framework for understanding the neural bases and development of emotion recognition. It is proposed that foundations for the development of emotion recognition are provided by an experience-expectant neural circuitry that emerges early in life, biases infants to attend to biologically salient information, and is refined and specialized through experience for processing species-typical signals of emotions. It is also discussed how genetic variations and experiences during sensitive periods of development can affect the developmental process and give rise to subtle individual differences in emotion recognition.
Emotional Action and Communication in Early Moral Development
Authors: Dahl Audun , Campos Joseph J. , Witherington David C.
Published: April 2011

Emotional action and communication are integral to the development of morality, here conceptualized as our concerns for the well-being of other people and the ability to act on those concerns. Focusing on the second year of life, this article suggests a number of ways in which young children’s emotions and caregivers’ emotional communication contribute to early forms of helping, empathy, and learning about prohibitions. We argue for distinguishing between moral issues and other normative issues also in the study of early moral development, for considering a wider range of emotional phenomena than the “moral emotions” most commonly studied, and for paying more attention to how specific characteristics of early emotional interactions facilitate children’s development of a concern for others.
A Sonographer’s Perspective: Quintero Staging System for Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome in Monochorionic Twins
Authors: Durbin Sharon A.
Published: April 2011

Sonography remains the cornerstone in the assessment of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in monochorionic twin pregnancies. Twin-to-twin transfusion is a common complication in monochorionic pregnancies, resulting in high perinatal morbidity and mortality rates. A disproportionate placental interconnection leads to hypovolemia and oligohydramnios in the donor twin and hypervolemia and polyhydramnios in the recipient twin. Ruben A. Quintero and his associates developed a staging system with definite sonographic criteria necessary for prognosis and management of these pregnancies. Quintero staging criteria consist of the following: stage 1, bladder of donor twin still visible; stage 2, bladder of donor twin no longer visible, no critical abnormal Doppler; stage 3, critical abnormal Doppler waveforms; stage 4, hydrops; and stage 5, demise of one or both twins.
Genome-wide analysis of the role of GlnR in Streptomyces venezuelae provides new insights into global nitrogen regulation in actinomycetes
Authors: Pullan Steven T , Chandra Govind , Bibb Mervyn J , Merrick Mike
Published: April 2011

Background

GlnR is an atypical response regulator found in actinomycetes that modulates the transcription of genes in response to changes in nitrogen availability. We applied a global in vivo approach to identify the GlnR regulon of Streptomyces venezuelae, which, unlike many actinomycetes, grows in a diffuse manner that is suitable for physiological studies. Conditions were defined that facilitated analysis of GlnR-dependent induction of gene expression in response to rapid nitrogen starvation. Microarray analysis identified global transcriptional differences between glnR
+ and glnR mutant strains under varying nitrogen conditions. To differentiate between direct and indirect regulatory effects of GlnR, chromatin immuno-precipitation (ChIP) using antibodies specific to a FLAG-tagged GlnR protein, coupled with microarray analysis (ChIP-chip), was used to identify GlnR binding sites throughout the S. venezuelae genome.

Results

GlnR bound to its target sites in both transcriptionally active and apparently inactive forms. Thirty-six GlnR binding sites were identified by ChIP-chip analysis allowing derivation of a consensus GlnR-binding site for S. venezuelae. GlnR-binding regions were associated with genes involved in primary nitrogen metabolism, secondary metabolism, the synthesis of catabolic enzymes and a number of transport-related functions.

Conclusions

The GlnR regulon of S. venezuelae is extensive and impacts on many facets of the organism's biology. GlnR can apparently bind to its target sites in both transcriptionally active and inactive forms.
Dissection of genetic and environmental factors involved in tomato organoleptic quality
Authors: Carli Paola , Barone Amalia , Fogliano Vincenzo , Frusciante Luigi , Ercolano Maria R
Published: April 2011

Background

One of the main tomato breeding objectives is to improve fruit organoleptic quality. However, this task is made somewhat challenging by the complex nature of sensory traits and the lack of efficient selection criteria. Sensory quality depends on numerous factors, including fruit colour, texture, aroma, and composition in primary and secondary metabolites. It is also influenced by genotypic differences, the nutritional regime of plants, stage of ripening at harvest and environmental conditions. In this study, agronomic, biochemical and sensory characterization was performed on six Italian heirlooms grown in different environmental conditions.

Result

We identified a number of links among traits contributing to fruit organoleptic quality and to the perception of sensory attributes. PCA analysis was used to highlight some biochemical, sensory and agronomic discriminating traits: this statistical test allowed us to identify which sensory attributes are more closely linked to environmental conditions and those, instead, linked to the genetic constitution of tomato. Sweetness, sourness, saltiness and tomato flavour are not only grouped in the same PCA factor, but also result in a clear discrimination of tomato ecotypes in the three different fields. The three different traditional varieties cluster on the basis of attributes like juiciness, granulosity, hardness and equatorial diameter, and are therefore more closely related to the genetic background of the cultivar.

Conclusion

This finding suggests that a different method should be undertaken to improve sensory traits related to taste perception and texture. Our results might be used to ascertain in what direction to steer breeding in order to improve the flavour characteristics of tomato ecotypes.
Adjuvant therapy for locally advanced renal cell cancer: A systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Scherr Adolfo JO , Lima Joao Paulo SN , Sasse Emma C , Lima Carmen SP , Sasse André D
Published: April 2011

Background

Many adjuvant trials have been undertaken in an attempt to reduce the risk of recurrence among patients who undergo surgical resection for locally advanced renal cancer. However, no clear benefit has been identified to date. This systematic review was conducted to examine the exact role of adjuvant therapy in renal cancer setting.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials were searched comparing adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy, vaccine, immunotherapy, biochemotherapy) versus no active treatment after surgery among renal cell cancer patients. Outcomes were overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and severe toxicities. Risk ratios (RR), hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using a fixed-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was measured by I2. Different strategies of adjuvant treatment were evaluated separately.

Results

Ten studies (2,609 patients) were included. Adjuvant therapy provided no benefits in terms of OS (HR 1.07; 95%CI 0.89 to 1.28; P = 0.48 I2 = 0%) or DFS (HR 1.03; 95%CI 0.87 to 1.21; P = 0.77 I2 = 15%) when compared to no treatment. No subgroup analysis (immunotherapy, vaccines, biochemotherapy and hormone therapy) had relevant results. Toxicity evaluation depicted a significantly higher frequency of serious adverse events in the adjuvant group.

Conclusions

This analysis provided no support for the hypothesis that the agents studied provide any clinical benefit for renal cancer patients although they increase the risk of toxic effects. Randomized trials are underway to test targeted therapies, which might open a new therapeutic frontier. Until these trials yield results, no adjuvant therapy can be recommended for patients who undergo surgical resection for renal cell cancer.
Factors associated with compliance among users of solar water disinfection in rural Bolivia
Authors: Christen Andri , Duran Pacheco Gonzalo , Hattendorf Jan , Arnold Benjamin F , Cevallos Myriam , Indergand Stefan , Colford John M , Mäusezahl Daniel
Published: April 2011

Background

Diarrhoea is the second leading cause of childhood mortality, with an estimated 1.3 million deaths per year. Promotion of Solar Water Disinfection (SODIS) has been suggested as a strategy for reducing the global burden of diarrhoea by improving the microbiological quality of drinking water. Despite increasing support for the large-scale dissemination of SODIS, there are few reports describing the effectiveness of its implementation. It is, therefore, important to identify and understand the mechanisms that lead to adoption and regular use of SODIS.

Methods

We investigated the behaviours associated with SODIS adoption among households assigned to receive SODIS promotion during a cluster-randomized trial in rural Bolivia. Distinct groups of SODIS-users were identified on the basis of six compliance indicators using principal components and cluster analysis. The probability of adopting SODIS as a function of campaign exposure and household characteristics was evaluated using ordinal logistic regression models.

Results

Standardised, community-level SODIS-implementation in a rural Bolivian setting was associated with a median SODIS use of 32% (IQR: 17-50). Households that were more likely to use SODIS were those that participated more frequently in SODIS promotional events (OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 1.01-1.13), included women (OR = 1.18, 95%CI: 1.07-1.30), owned latrines (OR = 3.38, 95%CI: 1.07-10.70), and had severely wasted children living in the home (OR = 2.17, 95%CI: 1.34-3.49).

Conclusions

Most of the observed household characteristics showed limited potential to predict compliance with a comprehensive, year-long SODIS-promotion campaign; this finding reflects the complexity of behaviour change in the context of household water treatment. However, our findings also suggest that the motivation to adopt new water treatment habits and to acquire new knowledge about drinking water treatment is associated with prior engagements in sanitary hygiene and with the experience of contemporary family health concerns.

Household-level factors like the ownership of a latrine, a large proportion of females and the presence of a malnourished child living in a home are easily assessable indicators that SODIS-programme managers could use to identify early adopters in SODIS promotion campaigns.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00731497
Original article title: "Comparison of therapeutic efficacy of topical corticosteroid and oral zinc sulfate-topical corticosteroid combination in the treatment of vitiligo patients: a clinical trial"
Authors: Yaghoobi Reza , Omidian Mohammad , Bagherani Nooshin
Published: April 2011

Background

Vitiligo is the most prevalent pigmentary disorder which occurs worldwide, with an incidence rate between 0.1-4 percent. It is anticipated that the discovery of biological pathways of vitiligo pathogenesis will provide novel therapeutic and prophylactic targets for future approaches to the treatment and prevention of vitiligo. The purposes of this study were evaluating the efficacy of supplemental zinc on the treatment of vitiligo.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial was conducted for a period of one year. Thirty five patients among 86 participants were eligible to entrance to the study. The patients in two equal randomized groups took topical corticosteroid and combination of oral zinc sulfate-topical corticosteroid.

Results

The mean of responses in the corticosteroid group and the zinc sulfate-corticosteroid combination group were 21.43% and 24.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Although, the response to corticosteroid plus zinc sulfate was more than corticosteroid, there was no statistically significant difference between them. It appeared that more robust long-term randomized controlled trials on more patients, maybe with higher doses of zinc sulfate, are needed to fully establish the efficacy of oral zinc in management of vitiligo.

Trial Registration

chiCTRTRC10000930