bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of Aging-Related Impairment of Brown Adipocyte Development and Function
Authors: Graja Antonia , Schulz Tim J.
Published: December 2014

Aging is one of the primary risk factors for the development of obesity, a pathology that develops due to an imbalance of increased energy consumption over reduced expenditure. Brown adipocytes are responsible for thermogenesis and could therefore counter obesity by increasing energy expenditure. It is by now well established that humans possess thermogenesis-competent brown adipocytes throughout life, and recent findings indicate that brown fat is actively involved in metabolic control and body weight regulation in adults. Aging is accompanied by a loss of classical brown adipocytes as well as the brown-like adipocytes found in white adipose tissue, suggesting that loss of their energy-expending capacity might contribute to an obesity-prone phenotype with increased age. We here discuss the hypothesis that the age-related loss of brown adipocyte regenerative capacity is a result of dysfunctional stem/progenitor cells. The possible molecular mechanisms that lead to an age-related decline in brown adipogenic stem/progenitor cell function include cell-autonomous and external effects. General loss of mitochondrial biogenesis and function has repeatedly been linked to age-related perturbation of metabolic processes. We also discuss the possibility that alterations in neuronal control by the sympathetic nervous system may contribute to impaired regeneration and thermogenesis in aged brown adipocytes. Finally, age-related changes of endocrine signals have been proposed to exacerbate the loss of brown adipose tissue. In conclusion, age-induced impairment of brown adipogenic stem/progenitor cell function could contribute to the loss of brown adipocyte regeneration, thereby promoting the development of obesity and other metabolic disorders with age.
Increased Osteopontin Levels in Children Undergoing Venom Immunotherapy May Serve as a Marker of Clinical Efficacy
Authors: Yavuz Süleyman Tolga , Soyer Ozge U. , Sekerel Bulent E. , Buyuktiryaki Betul , Cavkaytar Ozlem , Sahiner Umit Murat , Sackesen Cansin , Tuncer Ayfer
Published: December 2014

Background: Venom immunotherapy (VIT) has its effect by modulating various mediators resulting in immune tolerance. The aim of this study was to measure changes in plasma osteopontin (OPN) and serum basal tryptase (sBT) levels over the course of 1 year of VIT in children with venom allergy. Methods: Children who suffered from a large local reaction (LLR) or a systemic reaction (SR) after insect stings were included along with control subjects. Measurements were performed before the initiation of VIT and 6 and 12 months after it had been started. Results: A total of 58 children (24 with SR, 18 with LLR and 16 control subjects) with a median age of 9.5 years (range 6.7-12.8) were enrolled. The plasma OPN levels of patients with LLR [median 1,477 ng/ml, interquartile range (IQR) 1,123-1,772] were significantly higher than patients with SR (882 ng/ml, 579-1,086; p < 0.001) and healthy control subjects (1,015 ng/ml, 815-1,203; p = 0.002). A significant increase in plasma OPN levels in children was determined after the 1-year VIT. The sBT levels of children with SR (4.1 ng/ml, 3.6-5.8) were significantly higher than children with LLR (3.1 ng/ml, 2.5-4.0) and control subjects (3.0 ng/ml, 2.9-3.8; p = 0.001). There was no significant change in the sBT levels of the patients after the 1-year VIT. Conclusions: The results of our study showed higher baseline levels of OPN in children with LLR compared to control subjects and children with SR. In children with SR, OPN levels were increased after the 1-year VIT. Our results may suggest a possible association between OPN and successful VIT in children.
Crocetin, a Carotenoid Derived from Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), Improves Acetylcholine-Induced Vascular Relaxation in Hypertension
Authors: Mancini Andrea , Serrano-Díaz Jessica , Nava Eduardo , D'Alessandro Anna Maria , Alonso Gonzalo Luis , Carmona Manuel , Llorens Sílvia
Published: December 2014

Background: Hypertension is associated with endothelial dysfunction characterized by decreased vasorelaxation. Crocetin, a bioactive compound of saffron, exhibits favorable cardiovascular properties. We analyze the vasomodulatory effects of crocetin in hypertension. Methods: Myographical experiments were performed to compare the relaxation induced by acetylcholine (ACH) on aortic rings from normotensive (Wistar) and hypertensive (SHR) rats, incubated with or without crocetin or saffron extract and L-NAME or indomethacin. Extracts were also assayed in deendothelialized rings. UV-vis spectrophotometry and HPLC-DAD were used to characterize and quantify the saffron used. Results: Crocetin enhanced the ACH relaxations in aorta from hypertensive (strongly) and normotensive rats (weakly). Saffron extract did not modify this. Crocetin plus L-NAME abolished the relaxant response in SHR but not in Wistar aorta. Crocetin plus indomethacin did not modify the indomethacin response in either SHR or Wistar aorta. Crocetin in rubbed segments did not modify the ACH responses. In contrast, saffron increased this response in rubbed segments from SHR but not Wistar rats. Conclusion: Crocetin exerts healthy vasomodulatory effects in hypertension, strongly improving endothelium-dependent ACH relaxations via endothelial nitric oxide but not the cyclooxygenase pathway. This work proposes that crocetin supplements are a possible complement in the therapy of hypertension.
Developing Therapies for Peanut Allergy
Authors: Bublin Merima , Breiteneder Heimo
Published: December 2014

Peanut allergy is an IgE-mediated, persisting immune disorder that is of major concern worldwide. Currently, no routine immunotherapy is available to treat this often severe and sometimes fatal food allergy. Traditional subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy with crude peanut extracts has proven not feasible due to the high risk of severe systemic side effects. The allergen-specific approaches under preclinical and clinical investigation comprise subcutaneous, oral, sublingual and epicutaneous immunotherapy with whole-peanut extracts as well as applications of hypoallergenic peanut allergens or T cell epitope peptides. Allergen-nonspecific approaches include monoclonal anti-IgE antibodies, TCM herbal formulations and Toll-like receptor 9-based immunotherapy. The potential of genetically engineered plants with reduced allergen levels is being explored as well as the beneficial influence of lactic acid bacteria and soybean isoflavones on peanut allergen-induced symptoms. Although the underlying mechanisms still need to be elucidated, several of these strategies hold great promise. It can be estimated that individual strategies or a combination thereof will result in a successful immunotherapy regime for peanut-allergic individuals within the next decade.
Effect of Panax notoginseng in Patients with Multiple Fractured Ribs and Pulmonary Contusions Caused by the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake
Authors: Tianhong Ma , Yuxi Qin , Zhimin Wei , Baili Yu
Published: December 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the combination of conventional treatment and Panax notoginseng (PN group) is superior to conventional treatment alone (CG group) in reducing the clinical symptoms of patients with multiple fractured ribs and pulmonary contusions. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients treated for multiple fractured ribs and pulmonary contusions with either conventional treatment (n = 17) or P. notoginseng (n = 18). Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and arterial oxygen saturation were measured at baseline and at 1 and 2 weeks following treatment. The duration of mechanical ventilation, systemic analgesics, and hospital stay were also recorded. Results: VAS scores in the PN group were lower than in the CG group at 1 week (p < 0.01) and at 2 weeks (p < 0.05). Arterial oxygen saturation in both groups was higher after treatment than at baseline (p < 0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups (p > 0.05). The duration of mechanical ventilation, systemic analgesics administration, and hospital stay in the PN group was remarkably decreased as compared to the CG group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Combining conventional treatment and P. notoginseng seems to be an efficient method that can improve the clinical symptoms of multiple fractured ribs and pulmonary contusions.
Treatment of Organic Livestock with Medicinal Plants: A Systematic Review of European Ethnoveterinary Research
Authors: Mayer Maria , Vogl Christian R. , Amorena Michele , Hamburger Matthias , Walkenhorst Michael
Published: December 2014

Background: The EC Regulation for Organic Farming states that organic livestock should be treated preferably with phytotherapeutic products. In spite of the high importance of organic livestock in Europe, primarily ruminants, today almost no phytotherapeutic product is registered for livestock. Also, information regarding veterinary phytotherapy is rare. The aim of this paper is to find approaches to cope with health problems of organic ruminants in Europe on the basis of findings from the European ethnoveterinary medicine (EuEVM). Methods: A systematic review of ethno-biomedicinal papers was conducted with the aid of the Scopus database, and 75 papers, from European countries were analyzed regarding ethnoveterinary information. Results: A total of 590 plant species referring to 102 different plant families are reported to be used for animal treatment, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Lamiaceae being the most important families. The traditional use of some plant species (e.g. mallow, chamomile, wormwood) corresponds with findings from recent scientific literature. The large number of less studied plant species, such as white lupin as an antiparasitic herb, and Helleborus spp. as potential immunostimulatory agent, opens an interesting field for future research. Conclusions: In general, EuEVM provides interesting treatment approaches for gastrointestinal and dermatological disorders as well as parasitosis. Findings regarding disorders of female genital or respiratory tract are less consistent. Nevertheless, EuEVM offers a solid basis for stimulating research in veterinary phytotherapy in Europe with a perspective to solve animal health problems in organic or even nonorganic ruminant production.
Fleas (Insecta-Siphonaptera) of Chile: a review
Authors: Beaucournu Jean-Claude , MORENO LUCILA , González-Acuña Daniel
Published: December 2014

This study presents a revision of the fleas (Siphonaptera) in Chile, gathered from 1993–2013 in response to a request to update our knowledge of the fauna of this country, as catalogued by Beaucournu & Gallardo in 1991 and 1992. For each taxon we give the depository of the type, the main references concerning it, its general distribution, particularly in Chile, and its known hosts, mainly in this country. Our review of the existing literature on fleas of Chile gives information on a total of 8 families, 11 subfamilies, 31 genera, 9 subgenera and 112 species (with 11 subspecies). The hosts are represented by 21 families of mammals (91 species) and 16 of birds (27 species). In addition we present 21 new reports of fleas for Chile and 165 new localities.
A new genus of the tribe Caliscelini (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Caliscelidae) from Vietnam
Authors: GNEZDILOV VLADIMIR M. , BOURGOIN THIERRY , SOULIER-PERKINS ADELINE
Published: December 2014

A new genus Annamatissus Gnezdilov et Bourgoin gen. nov., including the new species, Annamatissus tami Gnezdilov et Soulier-Perkins sp. nov. is described in the family Caliscelidae from the Bi-Doup massif in Lam Dong Province of Vietnam. The new taxon represents only the second genus of the tribe Caliscelini known from Vietnam. An identification key to separate Gelastissus Kirkaldy from Annamatissus gen. nov. is provided together with a check list of the Caliscelidae of Vietnam and their distribution. New distribution data in Vietnam are given for Cicimora sicildia Emeljanov, 1998 and Gelastissus hokutonis (Matsumura, 1916).
Eriophyoid mites (Acari: Prostigmata: Eriophyoidea) from Hungary: a new species on Agrimonia eupatoria (Rosaceae) and new record on Convolvulus arvensis (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: RIPKA GÉZA
Published: December 2014

A new species of eriophyoid mite, Aculus castriferrei n. sp., associated with Agrimonia eupatoria (Rosaceae) is described and illustrated from Hungary. Morphological differences distinguishing this vagrant species from other rosaceous inhabiting congeners are discussed. Aceria malherbae Nuzzaci is a new record for the eriophyoid fauna of Hungary after it was found causing severe damage symptoms to Convolvulus arvensis L. (Convolvulaceae).
First record of the genus Caenophanes Foerster (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Doryctinae) for America north of Mexico with a description of a new species from Wyoming USA
Authors: HAIMOWITZ LAWRENCE , MARSH PAUL M. , SHAW SCOTT R.
Published: December 2014

The first species of Caenophanes Foerster recorded from America north of Mexico is described: Caenophanes harlowi Haimowitz and Marsh, and a key to distinguish the two described New World species is provided. We discuss evidence that suggests that Caenophanes is likely to have cosmopolitan distribution and may be more common than might be anticipated from the current number of described species.
A checklist of the snake fauna of Guinea, with taxonomic changes in the genera Philothamnus and Dipsadoboa (Colubridae) and a comparison with the snake fauna of some other West African countries
Authors: TRAPE JEAN-FRANÇOIS , BALDÉ CELLOU
Published: December 2014

We present here the results of a study of 4,906 snakes from Guinea belonging to 95 species collected from 2002 to 2013 at 54 localities in all administrative regions of the country. We resurrect Dipsadoboa guineensis from the synonymy of D. brevirostris and consider the latter species a junior synonym of D. duchesnei. In addition we resurrrect Philothamnus pobeguini and P. belli from the synonymy of P. heterodermus. 19 species were not previously collected in this country, including Letheobia coecata, Tricheilostoma bicolor, Myriopholis rouxestevae, Rhinoleptus koniagui, Python regius, Grayia tholloni, Natriciteres fuliginoides, Philothamnus heterolepidotus, Thrasops aethiopissa, Amblyodipsas unicolor, Gonionotophis granti, Mehelya crossi, Prosymna gregeirti, Prosymna meleagris, Rhamphiophis oxyrhynchus, Elapsoidea trapei, Naja katiensis, Naja senegalensis and Echis jogeri. Based on a critical review of literature and our own data, we compare the currently known snake fauna of Guinea (104 species) with that of Sierra Leone (65 species), Liberia (63 species), Ivory Coast (101 species), Ghana (102 species), Togo (93 species), Benin (72 species) and Nigeria (118 species).
A survey of Euphorinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) of southern Iran, with description of a new species
Authors: AMERI ALI , TALEBI ALI ASGHAR , RAKHSHANI EHSAN , BEYARSLAN AHMET , KAMALI KARIM
Published: December 2014

A faunistic survey of Euphorinae (Hym., Braconidae) in southern Iran, as well as an updated checklist of the genera and species in Iran, are presented. Sampling was performed using Malaise traps at different locations of Hormozgan province and Qeshm Island in Persian Gulf during 2011–2013. In total, 38 species belonging to 10 genera are listed from Iran. The recorded species belong to the following genera: Allurus Forster, 1862 (two species), Chrysopophthorus Goidanich 1948 (one species), Dinocampus Forster, 1862 (one species), Ecclitura Kokujev, 1902 (one species), Leiophron Nees von Esenbeck, 1819 (10 species), Meteorus Haliday, 1835 (12 species), Perilitus Nees von Esenbeck, 1819 (five species), Syntretus Forster 1862 (three species), Wesmaelia Foerster, 1862 (one species) and Zele Curtis, 1832 (two species). Allurus lituratus (Haliday 1835), Dinocampus coccinellae (Schrank, 1802), Leiophron (Peristenus) grandiceps (Thomson 1892), Meteorus rubens (Nees, 1811) and Wesmaelia petiolata (Wollaston, 1858) are new records for Hormozgan province and Leiophron (Peristenus) grandiceps (Thomson 1892) is recorded for the first time from Iran. In addition, Meteorus breviterebratus Ameri, Talebi & Beyarslan sp. n. is newly described and illustrated.
A new species of Paracaprella Mayer, 1890 (Amphipoda: Caprellida: Caprellidae) from southern Brazil
Authors: LACERDA MARIANA B. , MASUNARI SETUKO
Published: December 2014

A new species of the genus Paracaprella is described based on the specimens associated with the algae Sargassum cymosum and Laurencia obtusa that were collected from infralittoral depths (0.5 to 3.0 m) at Sepultura Beach, Bombinhas and Paciência Beach, Penha, Santa Catarina State, Brazil. This new species differs from the others of the genus by the unique morphology of the males’ gnathopod 2: its propodus has a grasping margin provided with a deep groove. An identification key for Paracaprella species is also presented.
A new species of Spongilla-fly from Western Africa (Neuroptera: Sisyridae)
Authors: MONSERRAT VICTOR J. , DUELLI Peter
Published: December 2014

A new species of spongilla-fly (Neuropterida, Neuroptera, Sisyridae: Sisyra) is described from Western Africa (Guinea and Ivory Coast). This new Sisyra species differs from all other known African species both in its morphology and genitalia, and it seems to be most closely related to a species in Thailand.
Measuring the Master Race
Authors: Kyllingstad Jon Røyne
Published: December 2014

The notion of a superior ‘Germanic’ or ‘Nordic’ race was a central theme in the ideology of the Nazis. But it was also a commonly accepted idea in the early twentieth century, and an actual scientific concept originating from anthropological research on the physical characteristics of Europeans. The Scandinavian Peninsula was considered to be the historical cradle and the core area of this ‘master race’.

This book investigates the role played by Scandinavian scholars in inventing this so-called superior race, and discusses how this concept put its stamp on Norwegian physical anthropology, prehistory, national identity, and on the Norwegian eugenics movement. It also explores the decline and scientific disputation of these ideas in the 1930s as they came to be associated with the ‘genetic cleansing’ of Nazi Germany.

This is the first comprehensive study on Norwegian physical anthropology, and its findings shed new light on current political and scientific debates about race across the globe.
A Note on Soil Moisture Memory and Interactions with Surface Climate for Different Vegetation Types in the La Plata Basin
Authors: Sörensson Anna A. , Berbery Ernesto Hugo
Published: December 2014

This work examines the evolution of soil moisture initialization biases and their effects on seasonal forecasts depending on the season and vegetation type for a regional model over the La Plata basin in South America. WRF–Noah simulations covering multiple cases during a 2-yr period are designed to emphasize the conceptual nature of the simulations at the expense of the statistical significance of the results. Analysis of the surface climate shows that the seasonal predictive skill is higher when the model is initialized during the wet season and the initial soil moisture differences are small. Large soil moisture biases introduce large surface temperature biases, particularly for savanna, grassland, and cropland vegetation covers at any time of the year, thus introducing uncertainty in the surface climate. Regions with evergreen broadleaf forest have roots that extend to the deep layer whose moisture content affects the surface temperature through changes in the partitioning of the surface fluxes. The uncertainties of monthly maximum temperature can reach several degrees Celsius during the dry season in cases when 1) the soil is much wetter in the reanalysis than in the WRF–Noah equilibrium soil moisture and 2) the memory of the initial value is long because of scarce rainfall and low temperatures. This study suggests that responses of the atmosphere to soil moisture initialization depend on how the initial wet and dry conditions are defined, stressing the need to take into account the characteristics of a particular region and season when defining soil moisture initialization experiments.
A Skillful Prediction Model for Winter NAO Based on Atlantic Sea Surface Temperature and Eurasian Snow Cover
Authors: Tian Baoqiang , Fan Ke
Published: December 2014

A new statistical forecast scheme, referred to as scheme 1, is developed using observed autumn Atlantic sea surface temperature (SST) and Eurasian snow cover in the preceding autumn to predict the upcoming winter North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) using the year-to-year increment prediction approach (i.e., DY approach). Two predictors for the year-to-year increment are identified that are available in the preceding autumn. Cross-validation tests for the period 1950–2011 and independent hindcasts for the period 1990–2011 are performed to validate the prediction ability of the proposed technique. The cross-validation test results for 1950–2011 reveal a high correlation coefficient of 0.52 (0.58) between the predicted and observed NAO indices (DY of the NAO). The model also successfully predicts the independent hindcasts for the period 1990–2011 with a correlation coefficient of 0.55 (0.74). In addition, scheme 0 (i.e., anomaly approach) is established using the SST and snow cover anomalies during the preceding autumn. Compared with scheme 0, this new prediction model has higher predictive skill in reproducing the interdecadal variability of NAO. Therefore, this study provides an effective climate prediction scheme for the interannual and interdecadal variability of NAO in boreal winter.
International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria (INHAND)
Authors: Keenan C. M. , Baker J. , Bradley A. , Goodman D. G. , Harada T. , Herbert R. , Kaufmann W. , Kellner R. , Mahler B. , Meseck E. , Nolte T. , Rittinghausen S. , Vahle J. , Yoshizawa K.
Published: December 2014

The International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria for Lesions in Rats and Mice proposal (INHAND) has been operational since 2005. A Global Editorial Steering Committee manages the overall objectives of the project, and the development of harmonized terminology for each organ system is the responsibility of the Organ Working Groups, drawing upon experts from North America, Europe, and Japan. Great progress has been made with 9 systems published to date—respiratory, hepatobiliary, urinary, central/peripheral nervous systems, male reproductive and mammary, zymbals, clitoral, and preputial glands in Toxicologic Pathology and the integument and soft tissue and female reproductive in the Journal of Toxicologic Pathology as supplements and on a Web site— www.goReni.org . INHAND nomenclature guides offer diagnostic criteria and guidelines for recording lesions observed in rodent toxicity and carcinogenicity studies. The guides provide representative photomicrographs of morphologic changes, information regarding pathogenesis, and key references. The purpose of this brief communication is to provide an update on the progress of INHAND.
Library adoption of knowledge management using Web 2.0
Authors: Islam Md. Anwarul , Agarwal Naresh Kumar , Ikeda Mitsuru
Published: December 2014

While Web 2.0 tools are increasingly being adopted by academic libraries to connect with patrons, they are not actively used to facilitate knowledge management (KM). This study investigates the awareness and comfort of librarians, their perceived usefulness of KM using Web 2.0, organizational readiness, and the ways in which these affect the library adoption of KM using Web 2.0. The survey questionnaire was completed by 101 librarians from 35 countries in 6 continents. Most respondents had heard of KM, were comfortable with Web 2.0, perceived KM using Web 2.0 to be highly useful, but were not entirely sure if their libraries were ready to adopt KM. Comfort with Web 2.0 was found to impact perceived usefulness, which in turn, strongly affected the likelihood of adoption of KM using Web 2.0. This is the first study that combines KM using Web 2.0 from the perspective of academic librarians globally, and has important implications for theory and practice.
Micronesian libraries and archives
Authors: Todd Christopher R.R.
Published: December 2014

The western Pacific region of Micronesia has a unique library and archival history. Composed of largely US-affiliated islands, the libraries of Micronesia have emerged through successive waves of colonization and assertions of modern island identities. Primarily focused on peer-reviewed journal articles, this literature review synthesizes the limited previous professional literature concerning Micronesian libraries into a concise resource. Though rapidly modernizing, libraries in this region face distinct challenges in terms of library training, adequate funding, limited access to current information resources, and low Internet access rates. Upon analysis of this body of literature, the author identifies three major needs: 1) Expanded LIS education in Micronesia (particularly at the graduate level), 2) Increased awareness and inclusion of island modes of communication in library and archival services, 3) Expanded opportunities for academic publication and research through the establishment of an Open Access journal of Micronesian Library and Information Science.
Caregiver Involvement in the Use of Assistive Devices by Frail Older Persons
Authors: Chen Ting-Yu (Anne) , Mann William C. , Tomita Machiko , Nochajski Susan
Published: December 2014

The population of persons over age 65 years is increasing, and with this trend there is an increase in number of older persons with disabilities, or frail elders. The importance of supportive environments for home-based frail elders has been recognized. Supportive environments include the presence of family caregivers and appropriate assistive devices. Assistive devices (AD) offer the potential to decrease frail elder's need for personal assistance, and could reduce some of the burden expressed by caregivers. The inclusion of family caregivers in treatment planning and its implementation is a component of occupational therapy practice. Occupational therapists are also recognized as the lead professional in the provision of most assistive devices. However, there has been little research on the involvement of family caregivers in the use of assistive devices. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between caregiver involvement and the use of, and satisfaction with, assistive devices by frail elders. Interviews regarding assistive devices were conducted with 20 frail, cognitively intact elders who had a primary caregiver in their homes. Results indicate that elders regard assistive devices as very useful in saving time, conserving energy, reducing frustration, and providing a feeling of security. Caregivers were involved in the use of assistive devices when the device was first acquired (early caregiver involvement) and made suggestions for using the devices. They also encouraged, instructed, and assisted with the use of devices later, as necessary. There was a relationship between early caregiver involvement and involvement at the time of the interview (later caregiver involvement). Verbal encouragement and caregiver's use of assistive devices to help perform tasks were strongly associated with both device use and satisfaction. The results reinforce the importance of caregiver involvement with assistive devices used by frail older persons.
Visual Recognition Memory for Objects in Six- and Nine-Month-Old Infants
Authors: Jacobs S. Essie
Published: December 2014

Developmental trends in recognition memory were examined in typically-developing 6- and 9-month-old infants using the Visual Paired-Comparison task (VPC). The VPC exploits an infant's natural tendency to look longer at a novel stimulus than at a familiar one with which it has been paired. The results show that infants of both ages display a novelty preference (i.e., recognition memory) when the delay interval is 10 seconds or 5 minutes in duration. However, after a delay of 1 week, 6-month-old infants are performing at chance levels of responding while 9-month-old infants tend to look longer at the familiar stimulus. The possibility that the younger infants' performance reflects forgetting while the older infants are updating memory is discussed. The importance of assessing infant recognition memory is discussed in light of recent findings that this measure has predictive reliability for cognitive function in later childhood.
Daily-Living Skills and Habits of Older Women with Depression
Authors: Rogers Joan C. , Holm Margo B.
Published: December 2014

This study used a prospective, within-group comparison design to examine differences in the severity of disability in a community-based sample of 59 older women being treated for depression. The independent variables were three constructs: perceived skills, perceived habits, and demonstrated skills. The dependent variables were functional mobility, personal care, and instrumental activities of daily living. Results indicated that the expression of overall disability differed significantly among the three constructs. Participants' perceptions of their skill independence were greater than their ability to demonstrate independence in those skills, and their demonstrated skills of task independence were greater than their perceived ability habitually to use those skills independently. Objective, performance-based skill measures indicated greater disability than subjective, self-report skill measures, and supported the view that in older adults, depression-related disability reflects a combination of skill and habit deficits. Item analyses revealed five distinct patterns of relationships among perceived skills, perceived habits, and demonstrated skills. Practitioners need to be aware of the constructs being used to measure disability because the severity of disability may depend on the construct being used. Furthermore, the types of interventions appropriate for disability related to each construct or pattern of constructs may vary.
Integration and Interruption as Separate Facets of Backward Masking in Schizophrenia
Authors: Regier Nathan
Published: December 2014

Vulnerability to visual backward masking is thought to predate the onset of symptoms of schizophrenia. That makes this attention and information-processing phenomenon a promising candidate as a gene-determined trait that helps portend schizophrenia. Two proposed mechanisms of masking include integration and interruption. Prior studies of backward masking in schizophrenia have been hampered by the use of stimuli that are meaningless except under specific conditions. Because of this, it has been difficult to differentiate integration from interruption. The study reported in this article sought to apply criteria of meaningfulness and independence to the backward-masking task. The computerized masking program created for this study, DMASK 1.0, used visual stimuli that enabled the measurement of four discrete response options, thus differentiating between integration and interruption. Selected for the study and administered DMASK 1.0 were 14 people with nonparanoid schizophrenia, 15 people with nonpsychotic major depression, and 20 people with no mental illness (controls). As expected, the people with schizophrenia were more vulnerable to masking than either the control group or the people with depression. Also, as predicted, integration responses were present but did not differ among groups. Finally, as predicted, the people with nonpsychotic depression did not differ from the controls on most key masking variables.
Retention of Rural Physicians: Place Integration and the Triumph of Habit
Authors: Cutchin Malcolm P.
Published: December 2014

Retention of physicians continues to be a problem across much of rural North America, and research has neglected the sociogeographical process that leads to it. John Dewey's philosophy, including his insight into habits, suggests that retention is a process of “place integration” or “habitat” formation. A qualitative study of retention in Kentucky illustrates the process. For rural physicians this process revolves around the enhancement of security, freedom, identity, and meaning in place.
Habits in Women with Chronic Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Poole Janet L.
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this pilot study was to describe daily-living habits of Native American women with chronic diseases. The participants were 14 females who were either healthy (the control group) or had rheumatoid arthritis (RA), diabetes mellitus (DM), or both (RA+DM). Participants underwent an evaluation of joint motion and were interviewed regarding daily-living routines and habits, and social and family role integration. The results showed that participants with RA and RA+DM had more joint limitations, more disability, and less role integration than participants in the control and DM groups. Using the toilet was the first task of the day for the majority of participants. Most participants took showers in the morning, and the face was usually one of the first body parts washed. The order in which daily tasks were performed is reported for each participant.
The Concept of Habit: A Research Synthesis
Authors: Tickle-Degnen Linda , Trombly Catherine
Published: December 2014

This article represents a compilation and a synthesis of the research questions that the presenters and the participants, both representing many disciplines, discussed during the research conference on the concept of habit in January 1999. The research questions are organized into three general categories: specification and measurement questions, descriptive and relational questions, and intervention questions. Research and theory development in the area of habits will move forward with a concerted, multidisci-plinary initiative to address and refine the questions that are listed here.
Validation of the Child and Adolescent Social Perception Measure
Authors: Koning Cyndie , Magill-Evans Joyce
Published: December 2014

The Child and Adolescent Social Perception Measure (CASP) was developed to assess children's ability to identify the emotions of others based on nonverbal cues. Adolescent boys with social skill deficits consistent with the diagnosis of Asperger's Disorder were compared to controls matched on age and intelligence quotient (IQ). Significant differences were found between groups on CASP scores. Correlations between CASP scores and general social skills scores were moderate and positive; lower significant correlations were found with language scores; and significant negative correlations were found with problem behavior scores. Validity for the CASP was demonstrated by the measure's ability to distinguish differences between groups and by correlations between scores on the CASP and scores on constructs related to social perception. Implications for occupational therapy assessment and treatment of social skill deficits are discussed.
Use of Mobility Devices: The Decision-Making Process of Nine African-American Older Adults
Authors: Copolillo Albert E.
Published: December 2014

Understanding the personal meaning of mobility device use and factors influencing use is critical for occupational therapy practitioners to assist clients to incorporate mobility devices into their lives. This exploratory study examined the process of deciding to use mobility devices for nine older adults with current and potential needs. Qualitative methods, including focus groups and narrative interviews, were used to examine the lives of these African-American elderly persons with disabilities living in the community. The participants were encouraged to discuss the meaning and value they placed on mobility device use and the impact the devices had on daily events. Data were analyzed using grounded theory methods. Four themes emerged to describe the process of deciding to use a mobility device: interpreting cues, accepting use, integrating use, and anticipating the future. The importance of assisting with this process by recognizing the activity and environment-specificity of use, and the discontinuation of use as the ultimate objective of mobility device users is discussed.
A Correlational Study of a Test of Playfulness and a Test of Environmental Supportiveness for Play
Authors: Bronson Margaret Rogers , Bundy Anita C.
Published: December 2014

This study examined the reliability and validity of the Test of Environmental Supportiveness (TOES), as well as correlated data from the Test of Play fulness (ToP) and the TOES. Correlation coefficients for a sample of children with disabilities were compared with coefficients from a sample of typically developing children. Data from 160 children and their environments were used. Following a 15-minute observation of free play, raters, using the ToP, assessed children for playfulness and using the TOES, assessed the environments in which they played for supportiveness. Rater reliability and person response validity met acceptable goodness of fit criteria for the Rasch Measurement model. Scale validity fell below the desired fit because of the failure of one item (space is physically safe) to fit the measurement model. A positive, significant correlation was found between playfulness and environmental supportiveness. The magnitude of the relationship was greater for the typically developing children than it was for the children with disabilities.
Habits as Social Tools in Context
Authors: Garrison James W.
Published: December 2014

In the tradition of American pragmatism, occupational capacity is embodied in the habits of a person's body. These habits are living functions involving thought, feeling, and attitudes that allow the person to carry out the various practices that occupy him or her in daily life. Such habits are artistic modes of self-expression; they are how people engage and transform the world for their purposes (dressing themselves, driving a car, writing a letter to a friend, etc.). Loss of functioning is a loss of personal identity and expression. Occupational therapy involves restoring habitual functioning, or building new habits that allow people once again to integrate their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Beyond the Clinic: Restructuring the Environment in Chronic Illness Experience
Authors: Dyck Isabel
Published: December 2014

This article discusses research on the daily routines of women with chronic illness that focused on the relationship between body and environment. The analysis draws on insights from feminist theories of the body and human geography that explore the connections among the material or corporeal body, its representation in biomedical discourse and other dominant social ideas about the “able” body, and lived experience. The discussion, which is based on in-depth interviews with women about their daily lives in the spaces of home, neighborhood, and workplace, demonstrates the women's restructuring of their daily routines and environments as they respond to both the material changing of their body and its marking as “deviant.” The analysis emphasizes the powerful influence of dominant social norms about the body, which may cast certain bodies as “out of place,” not just physically but socially. The theoretical ideas are applied to case examples from occupational therapy, and implications for practice are suggested. Following from the analysis, an important focus of intervention is exploration of ways to restructure space and work with clients on issues of social identity.
Habits of Social Interaction and Their Disruption in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Lyons Kathleen Doyle
Published: December 2014

Humans' social lives are a series of performances in which they are actors trying to convey a message to their audiences. Over the years they develop habits of social interaction: They learn how to use facial expressions and body language to convey emotions and demeanor. They learn to control the physical expression of their emotions so that they discreetly convey their message. And they strive for consistency in social interactions, avoiding expression of conflicting messages that would confuse their audience. Parkinson's disease symptoms of rigidity, tremors, bradykinesia, and akinesia can hamper coordinated and effortless use of the body. Parkinson's disease highlights the theatrical nature of social interaction because the symptoms can make it difficult to communicate thoughts and feelings spontaneously.
A Relational Model for Learning
Authors: Westfall Mary E.
Published: December 2014

A pedagogy for a sustainable future requires a reengagement of the vital aspects of being human, connecting body, mind, and spirit in an integrated whole. To make the necessary changes, the future needs people of character and commitment in addition to critical thinkers. A relational model of learning cultivates the qualities of character and commitment by assisting learners in developing a deeper sense of connection to place, to others, to mystery, and to the future.
Contextual Factors and Participation in Employment for People with Serious Mental Illness
Authors: Henry Alexis D. , Lucca Anna M.
Published: December 2014

Consumers with serious mental illness face many barriers to employment. The goal of the focus group study summarized in this article was to better understand the perspectives of those who most directly interface with employment services, namely consumers and providers. Fortyfour consumers and 32 providers participated in focus groups across Massachusetts. The guiding questions posed to participants were What are the barriers? and What are the facilitators? Participants identified a range of factors, including those related to psychiatric conditions. However, contextual factors, particularly those related to the service system, the Social Security system, and stigma, were considered to be the most daunting barriers. Solutions to barriers at both the practice and the policy level are suggested.
Removing Environmental Barriers in the Homes of Older Adults with Disabilities Improves Occupational Performance
Authors: Stark Susan
Published: December 2014

The current study examines the effectiveness of an occupational therapy home modification intervention program by examining differences in self-reported occupational performance before and after intervention in a population of community-dwelling older adults with disabilities. An occupational therapy intervention was provided in the homes of 16 older adults with functional limitations. The intervention included changing the existing space by the provision of adaptive equipment and making architectural modifications (including major remodeling) to the home. No remediative treatment was provided. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure was used to measure satisfaction and performance in daily activities in the home before and after home modification intervention. Overall, the mean scores on the satisfaction and performance subscales indicated an improvement in performance and satisfaction with occupational performance. The average number of barriers in each home was 4.7. An average of only 2.5 barriers were solved during the intervention. The removal of environmental barriers from the homes of older adults who have functional limitations can significantly improve their occupational performance and their satisfaction with their ability to perform everyday activities.
Contexts of the Flow Experience of Women with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Kennedy Bonnie L. , Vecitis Rachel N.
Published: December 2014

This descriptive within-subjects design examined differences in frequency of the Flow experience in the lives of women with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) based on social contexts or categories of “who one is with” during daily occupations. Flow experiences during daily occupations of 19 women with HIV/AIDS were studied using the Experience Sampling Method (ESM). The ESM has a unique value for studying occupation because it captures the experience of occupation in real time. Chi-square tests of independence showed statistically significant differences in frequency of Flow across various social contexts as seen in previous studies of nonclinical populations. Participants in this study experienced Flow most often when alone and least often when in public; mothers experienced Flow most often when with children and least often when with adult companions.
Relationship of Number of Medications to Functional Status, Health, and Quality of Life for the Frail Home-Based Older Adult
Authors: Classen Sherrilene , Mann William , Wu Samuel S. , Tomita Machiko R.
Published: December 2014

Number of medications and its relationship to functional status, health, and quality of life in 1,099 frail home-based older adults were examined. Using a general linear model, the number of medications was significant to cognition (P = .004; β = 0.16), instrumental activities of daily living ( P < .0001; β = 0.13), and health (P = .0001; odds ratio = 0.92, 95% confidence interval = 0.83 to 0.96). But increased age (P < .0001; β = −.12) and male gender (P < .0001; β = −1.9), inversely associated with cognition, point to the emergence of a high-risk group who have a greater need for occupational therapy intervention, specifically medication management.
Meanings and Motives for Engagement in Self-Chosen Daily Life Occupations among Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Öhman Annika , Nygård Louise
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to uncover and describe the meanings and motives for engagement in self-chosen daily life occupations for elderly individuals with Alzheimer's disease dwelling in the community. Six participants with Alzheimer's disease were included. Data were collected through repeated interviews and observations focusing on their motives for their self-chosen occupational engagement and the significance of the daily occupations. The analysis used a qualitative comparative and interpretative method. The findings show that the participants' occupations supported their ordinary pattern of everyday life and provided them with an opportunity to be in a coherent context. The occupations also allowed them to experience and communicate autonomy and certain characteristics of their identity and provided them with a private sphere. The findings revealed certain crucial but double-edged environmental keys to occupation. By identifying and supporting everyday occupations with personal meaning and value, therapists and caregivers may contribute to the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's disease living in their own homes.
Rehabilitation Medicine Summit: Building Research Capacity Executive Summary
Authors: Frontera Walter R. , Fuhrer Marcus J. , Jette Alan M. , Chan Leighton , Cooper Rory A. , Duncan Pamela W. , Kemp John D. , Ottenbacher Kenneth J. , Peckham P. Hunter , Roth Elliot J. , Tate Denise G.
Published: December 2014

The general objective of the “Rehabilitation Medicine Summit: Building Research Capacity” was to advance and promote research in medical rehabilitation by making recommendations to expand research capacity. The five elements of research capacity that guided the discussions were: (1) researchers; (2) research culture, environment, and infrastructure; (3) funding; (4) partnerships; and (5) metrics. The 100 participants included representatives of professional organizations, consumer groups, academic departments, researchers, governmental funding agencies, and the private sector. The small group discussions and plenary sessions generated an array of problems, possible solutions, and recommended actions. A post-Summit, multi-organizational initiative is called to pursue the agendas outlined in this report.