bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UDL in the Middle School Science Classroom
Authors: Marino Matthew T. , Gotch Chad M. , Israel Maya , Vasquez Eleazar , Basham James D. , Becht Kathleen
Published: October 2013

This article examined the performance of 57 students with learning disabilities (LD) from four middle schools. Students were followed over the course of a school year in their inclusive science classrooms as they alternated between the use of traditional curricular materials for some units of study and materials that were supplemented with video games and alternative print-based texts to more closely align with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines during other units. Findings indicate that video games and supplemental text were effective at providing students with multiple means of representation and expression. The UDL-aligned units led to heightened levels of student engagement. There were no significant differences on posttest scores when students with LD were compared with peers without LD. Students’ performance did not indicate significant differences between UDL-aligned units and those taught using traditional curricular materials. Findings suggest a need for alternative assessments to measure learning outcomes during UDL-aligned units. Implications for practice and areas of future research are discussed.
Hepatoprotective role of Nicotiana plumbaginifolia Linn. against carbon tetrachloride-induced injuries
Authors: Shah Abdus Saboor , Khan Rahmat Ali , Ahmed Mushtaq , Muhammad Nawshad
Published: October 2013

Nicotiana plumbignifolia (Linn) is used as folk medicine in the treatment of liver dysfunction in Pakistan. The present study was designed to investigate the hepatoprotective role of N. plumbignifolia methanolice extract (NPME) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced oxidative damage in liver of chicks. Methanolic extract of N. plumbignifolia was obtained and was further evaluated as a hepatoprotective agent against CCl4-induced oxidative damage in liver of chicks. For this study, 60-day-old 50 male chicks were divided into five groups. Chicks of group 1 (control) had free access to food and water. Group II received 1 mL/kg of CCl4 (30% in olive oil v/v) via the intraperitoneal route thrice a week for 4 weeks. Group III received 100 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) of silymarin via gavage after 48 h of CCl4 treatment, whereas group IV were given 200 mg/kg b.w. NPME after 48 h of CCl4 treatment. Hepatoprotective activity was assessed by measuring the activities of the antioxidant enzymes: catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)). Serum was analyzed for various biochemical parameters. The results revealed that CCl4 induced oxidative stress as evidenced by the significant decrease in the activity levels of antioxidant enzymes, while an increase in the levels of TBARS in liver samples is compared with the control group. Serum levels lactate dehydrogenase, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein was elevated while reducing high-density lipoprotein compared to controls. Cotreatment of NPME treatment reversed these alterations, which seems likely that NPME can protect the liver tissues against CCl4-mediated oxidative damage.
Studies on fate and toxicity of nanoalumina in male albino rats
Authors: Morsy Gamal M , El-Ala Kawther S Abou , Ali Atef A
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study is to follow-up the distribution, lethality percentile doses (LDs) and bioaccumulation of aluminium oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3-NPs, average diameter 9.83 ± 1.61 nm) in some tissues of male albino rats, and to evaluate its genotoxicity to the brain tissues, during acute and sublethal experiments. The LDs of Al2O3-NPs, including median lethal dose (LD50), were estimated after intraperitoneal injection. The computed LD50 at 24 and 48 h were 15.10 and 12.88 g/kg body weight (b.w.), respectively. For acute experiments, the bioaccumulation of aluminium (Al) in the brain, liver, kidneys, intestine and spleen was estimated after 48 h of injection with a single acute dose (3.9, 6.4 and 8.5 g/kg b.w.), while for sublethal experiments it was after 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days of injection with 1.3 g/kg b.w. once in 2 days. Multi-way analysis of variance affirmed that Al uptake, in acute experiments, was significantly affected by the injected doses, organs (brain, liver, kidneys, intestine and spleen) and their interactions, while for sublethal experiments an altogether effect based on time (1, 3, 7, 14, 28 days), doses (0 and 1.3 g), organs and their interactions was reported. In addition, Al accumulated in the brain, liver, kidney, intestine and spleen of rats administered with Al2O3-NPs were significantly higher than the corresponding controls, during acute and sublethal experiments. The uptake of Al by the spleen of rats injected with acute doses was greater than that accumulated by kidney>brain>intestine>liver, whereas the brain of rats injected with sublethal dose accumulated lesser amount of Al followed by the kidney<intestine<spleen<liver. Bioaccumulation of Al, in all studied tissues, was positively correlated with the injected doses (in acute term) and the experimental periods (in sublethal term). In the acute and sublethal experiments, comet assay parameters such as the tail intensity (i.e. DNA percentage), tail extent moment and olive tail moment were estimated using a single cell gel electrophoresis/comet assay. The results showed significant increase in DNA percentage damage in the brain cells. The obtained results indicate that bioaccumulation of Al was associated with significantly increased levels of comet parameters that depended on the doses and the experimental periods. In conclusion, Al has a high affinity to get accumulated in tissues to a level that is able to induce genotoxicity. Therefore, bioaccumulation is time, dose and organ dependant.
Antibacterial effects of curcumin
Authors: Gunes Hayati , Gulen Dumrul , Mutlu Reyhan , Gumus Abdullah , Tas Tekin , Topkaya Aynur Eren
Published: October 2013

Aim:

To evaluate the antibacterial effect of curcumin with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method in standard bacterial strains.

Methods:

The in vitro antibacterial activity of curcumin was evaluated against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) (ATCC 29213), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (ATCC 43300), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 700603) using the macrodilution broth susceptibility test method. After incubation in tubes, the antibacterial activity of curcumin was detected by a lack of turbidity, which indicated the inhibition of bacterial growth. The concentration in the tube with the highest dilution showing no turbidity was defined as the MIC.

Results:

The curcumin MIC values were 175 µg/ml, 129 µg/ml, 219 µg/ml, 217 µg/ml, 163 µg/ml, 293 µg/ml and 216 µg/ml against P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis, MSSA, MRSA, E . coli, E. faecalis and K. Pneumonia, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study revealed antibacterial effects of curcumin against standard bacterial strains in high concentrations. Animal experiments have demonstrated that curcumin applied at high doses has strong antibacterial activity. There is a need for further in vivo studies to shed light on antibacterial effects of curcumin with high concentrations.
Antioxidant status in oral subchronic toxicity of fipronil and fluoride co-exposure in buffalo calves
Authors: Gill Kamalpreet Kaur , Dumka Vinod Kumar
Published: October 2013

The effects of fipronil and fluoride co-exposure were investigated on antioxidant status of buffalo calves. A total of 24 healthy male buffalo calves divided into 4 groups were treated for 98 consecutive days. Group I, receiving no treatment, served as the control. Animals of groups II and III were orally administered with fipronil at the dosage of 0.5 mg/kg/day and sodium fluoride (NaF) at the dosage of 6.67 mg/kg/day, respectively, for 98 days. Group IV was coadministered with fipronil and NaF at the same dosages as groups II and III. Administration of fipronil alone produced significant elevation in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and decrease in the levels of nonenzymatic antioxidant glutathione (GSH). However, it did not produce any significant effect on the activities of enzymatic antioxidants including glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). NaF exposure led to enhanced oxidative stress as shown by significant increase in the LPO and SOD activities while GPx and CAT activities and GSH levels were significantly decreased. Co-exposure to fipronil and NaF showed additive effects on LPO, GPx activity, and GSH levels.
Protective effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on ifosfamide-induced central neurotoxicity in rats
Authors: Ginis Zeynep , Ozturk Gulfer , Albayrak Aynur , Kurt Sefika Nur , Albayrak Murat , Fadillioglu Ersin
Published: October 2013

Background:

The aim of this study was to establish the protective effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) against the ifosfamide (IFOS)-induced central neurotoxicity in rats and to determine the changes in oxidant–antioxidant status of brain tissue.

Method:

A total of 35 Wistar rats (aged 7-12 days) were used in the experiments. The study comprised of five groups. Control untreated rats ( n = 7) belonged to group 1; group 2 was given intraperitoneal (IP) injection of CAPE alone (10 µmol/kg; n = 7); group 3 was treated with single IP injection of IFOS (500 mg/kg; n = 7); group 4 was treated for 2 days with IP administration of CAPE (10 µmol/kg) beginning from one day before single IP injection of IFOS ( n = 7); and group 5 was treated with saline and 10% ethanol. At the 24th hour of IFOS treatment, brain tissues were removed for analysis.

Results:

The brain catalase activity was lower in IFOS group than the other groups ( p < 0.05). The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl content in brain tissue were higher in IFOS group than the control, CAPE, ethanol, and IFOS + CAPE groups ( p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between MDA and protein carbonyl content of control, CAPE, ethanol, and IFOS + CAPE groups. Immunohistochemistry showed marked activation of caspase 3 in the IFOS group at 24 h after treatment.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that pretreatment with CAPE might protect brain tissue against IFOS-induced central neurotoxicity. CAPE could be an effective course of therapy to enhance therapeutic efficacy and to lessen IFOS toxicity in clinical chemotherapy.
Mobile phone radiation during pubertal development has no effect on testicular histology in rats
Authors: Tumkaya Levent , Kalkan Yildiray , Bas Orhan , Yilmaz Adnan
Published: October 2013

Mobile phones are extensively used throughout the world. There is a growing concern about the possible public health hazards posed by electromagnetic radiation emitted from mobile phones. Potential health risk applies particularly to the most intensive mobile phone users—typically, young people. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mobile phone exposure to the testes, by assessing the histopathological and biochemical changes in the testicular germ cells of rats during pubertal development. A total of 12 male Sprague Dawley rats were used. The study group ( n = 6) was exposed to a mobile phone for 1 h a day for 45 days, while the control group ( n = 6) remained unexposed. The testes were processed with routine paraffin histology and sectioned. They were stained with hematoxylin–eosin, caspase 3, and Ki-67 and then photographed. No changes were observed between the groups ( p > 0.05). The interstitial connective tissue and cells of the exposed group were of normal morphology. No abnormalities in the histological appearance of the seminiferous tubules, including the spermatogenic cycle stage, were observed. Our study demonstrated that mobile phones with a low specific absorption rate have no harmful effects on pubertal rat testicles.
Antitumor characterization of various fractions of Launaea procumbens
Authors: Khan Rahmat Ali , Khan Muhammad Rashid , Shah Naseer Ali , Sahreen Sumaira , Elahi Sadaf Noor
Published: October 2013

The antitumor activity of various six fractions of Launaea procumbens were studied using the potato disk bioassay technique. Three concentrations (10, 100, and 1000 ppm) of all these six fractions were used for characterization of antitumor activity. Among these fractions, methanolic fraction exhibited significant inhibition of crown gall tumors caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens followed by butanolic fraction. These results revealed that methanolic and butanolic fractions contain bioactive constituents responsible for inhibition of tumor. Further purification and characterization are in progress in our laboratory.
The potential chemoprotective effects of melatonin against genotoxicity induced by diazinon in human peripheral blood lymphocytes
Authors: Karamian Amin , Shokrzadeh Mohammad , Ahmadi Amirhossein
Published: October 2013

The protection afforded by melatonin (MLT) against diazinon (DZN)-induced micronucleus formation, an index of DNA damage, in human blood lymphocytes was investigated. Whole blood samples were collected from five volunteers and were incubated with MLT at different concentrations (100, 200, 300, and 400 µM final concentration) for 1 h. The samples were then incubated with 750 µM DZN for 1 h. Subsequently, the lymphocytes were cultured with a mitogenic stimulant to evaluate micronucleus formation in cytokinesis-blocked binucleated cells. The incubation of lymphocytes with DZN induces additional genotoxicity. Pretreatment with MLT at these doses significantly reduced the micronucleus frequency in cultured lymphocytes ( p < 0.05– p < 0.0001). The maximum decrease in the frequency of micronuclei was observed at 400 µM of MLT, which caused a reduction of 87%. MLT also exhibited an excellent and dose-dependent radical-scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals. Our study revealed that MLT has a potent antigenotoxic effect against DZN-induced DNA damage, which may be due to the scavenging of free radicals and increased antioxidant status. Because MLT is a natural compound and is considered safe, it can be used as a supplement to protect people exposed to chemical or environmental hazards.
Intervention of ginger or propolis ameliorates methotrexate-induced ileum toxicity
Authors: Abdul-Hamid Manal , Salah Marwa
Published: October 2013

The long-term clinical use of methotrexate (MTX) is restricted due to its severe intestinal toxicity. The protective effect of ginger or propolis on the toxicity induced by MTX is relatively less understood, so the possible protective effect of ginger or propolis, used separately, was investigated. A total of 60 male albino rats were divided into six groups as follows: (1) control group; (2) ginger group; (3) propolis group; (4) MTX group; (5) ginger + MTX group; and (6) propolis + MTX group. The present results show that MTX caused ileum injury, including shortening and fusion of the villi, inflammatory cell infiltration and goblet cell depletion. Administration of ginger or propolis ameliorated the MTX-induced ileum injury as shown by histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural investigations and statistical analysis. This is revealed by intact villi, which shows marked increase in brown colouration of proliferating cell nuclear antigen positive nuclei in the crypts region, improvement in the number of goblet cells and brush border length of ileum. The current results conclude the efficacy and safety of ginger and propolis, which may be due to their antioxidant properties.
Vanadium inhalation induces actin changes in mice testicular cells
Authors: Rodríguez-Lara Vianey , Morales-Rivero Alonso , Rivera-Cambas Angelica Muñiz , Fortoul Teresa I
Published: October 2013

Infertility is becoming a health problem, which has increased mainly in megacities, and several studies have shown its association with environmental pollution. Air pollution has been linked to alterations in sperm parameters, both in humans and animal models. In male humans, it has been associated with reduced semen quality and DNA alterations. Vanadium is a transition element that has increased in recent decades as a component of air suspended matter and has been associated with reprotoxic effects in animal models. Few are the mechanisms described by which the vanadium produces these effects, and cytoskeleton interaction is a possibility. We reported immunohistochemical changes in actin testicular cytoskeleton in a vanadium inhalation experimental mice model. Our findings show that exposure to vanadium pentoxide (0.02 M) results in actin decrease in testicular cells from 3–12 weeks exposure time; this effect was statistically significant and exposure time dependent. Actin cytoskeleton damage is a mechanism that could explain vanadium reprotoxic effects and its association with impaired fertility.
Pediatric Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Chakrabarty Biswaroop , Tripathi Manjari , Gulati Sheffali , Yoganathan Sangeetha , Pandit Awadh Kishore , Sinha Aditi , Rathi Bhim Singh
Published: October 2013

Anti- N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is characterized by acute- or subacute-onset encephalopathy with extrapyramidal, psychiatric, and epileptic manifestations. Diagnosis is confirmed by positive antibodies to NMDA receptor in cerebrospinal fluid and serum. Eleven pediatric cases presented over a 2-year period at a tertiary care teaching hospital in North India. The average age at presentation was 9 years (range: 2.5 to 18 years, median: 10 years) with a slight female predominance (1.2:1). The common modes of presentation were progressive extrapyramidal syndrome with global neuroregression in 45% (5 of 11), epileptiform encephalopathy in 27% (3 of 11), and an overlap between the 2 in 27% (3 of 11). Fifty-eight percent showed significant response to steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin. This entity should be considered in an acute- or subacute-onset encephalopathy if common infectious etiologies are ruled out and there are specific clinical pointers. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improves the outcome.
Food Selectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Marí-Bauset Salvador , Zazpe Itziar , Mari-Sanchis Amelia , Llopis-González Agustín , Morales-Suárez-Varela María
Published: October 2013

Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by difficulties with reciprocal social interactions and restricted patterns of behavior and interest; one of these characteristic behaviors is food selectivity. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of the literature published between 1970 and 2013 concerning this eating behavior. The articles identified were analyzed in terms of sample size, study design, and criteria for assessment and intervention, as well as the results, level of evidence and grade of recommendation. The main search was conducted in Medline, Cochrane Library, Scielo, ScienceDirect, and Embase). There is empirical evidence and an overall scientific consensus supporting an association between food selectivity and autism spectrum disorders.
Peripheral Facial Palsy in Children
Authors: Yılmaz Ünsal , Çubukçu Duygu , Yılmaz Tuba Sevim , Akıncı Gülçin , Özcan Muazzez , Güzel Orkide
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study is to evaluate the types and clinical characteristics of peripheral facial palsy in children. The hospital charts of children diagnosed with peripheral facial palsy were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 81 children (42 female and 39 male) with a mean age of 9.2 ± 4.3 years were included in the study. Causes of facial palsy were 65 (80.2%) idiopathic (Bell palsy) facial palsy, 9 (11.1%) otitis media/mastoiditis, and tumor, trauma, congenital facial palsy, chickenpox, Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, enlarged lymph nodes, and familial Mediterranean fever (each 1; 1.2%). Five (6.1%) patients had recurrent attacks. In patients with Bell palsy, female/male and right/left ratios were 36/29 and 35/30, respectively. Of them, 31 (47.7%) had a history of preceding infection. The overall rate of complete recovery was 98.4%. A wide variety of disorders can present with peripheral facial palsy in children. Therefore, careful investigation and differential diagnosis is essential.
A Wide Clinical Phenotype Spectrum in Patients With ATP1A2 Mutations
Authors: Al-Bulushi Bashaer , Al-Hashem Amal , Tabarki Brahim
Published: October 2013

The clinical spectrum associated with ATP1A2 mutations is expanding and includes familial hemiplegic migraine, alternating hemiplegia of childhood, and epilepsy. We have identified a novel c.1766T>C. (Ile589Thr) heterozygous mutation in the ATP1A2 gene in a Saudi kindred with hemiplegic attacks and seizures. Our findings broaden the phenotypic spectrum of patients with ATP1A2 mutations.
Predicting Sexual Assault Kit Submission Among Adolescent Rape Cases Treated in Forensic Nurse Examiner Programs
Authors: Shaw Jessica , Campbell Rebecca
Published: October 2013

Following a sexual assault, victims are usually advised to have a medical forensic exam and sexual assault forensic exam kit (SAK). Once completed, the SAK is to be transported by law enforcement to the crime lab for analysis. However, many kits are never transported to the crime lab, thereby preventing forensic evidence obtained in the kit to be used during the prosecutorial process. The current study examined rates of SAK submission for 393 adolescent sexual assault cases in two Midwestern communities and explored what factors predicted law enforcement officers’ submission of SAKs to the crime lab for analysis. Findings reveal that more than 40% of the adolescent cases did not have their SAK submitted, and several factors, including the age and race of the victim, the number of perpetrators in the assault, and the number of assaultive acts, predicted SAK submission. Implications for SAK community protocols are discussed.
Why Are Crime Victims at Risk of Being Victimized Again? Substance Use, Depression, and Offending as Mediators of the Victimization–Revictimization Link
Authors: Ruback R. Barry , Clark Valerie A. , Warner Cody
Published: October 2013

Using three waves of data from 5,165 male and 5,924 female teenagers surveyed in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, this study tested whether drug use, alcohol use, depression, and offending mediate the link between a serious violent criminal victimization and a subsequent serious violent revictimization. Results indicated that victimization at Wave 1 significantly predicted changes in violent offending, delinquency, and drug use at Wave 2, even controlling for all other lagged mediators. Violent offending emerged as a robust and consistent mediator of the victimization–revictimization link for males. For females, all the mediators together produced a significant and large indirect effect that reduced the direct effect of prior victimization to nonsignificance, but no one single mediator was significant. This study demonstrates that revictimization is partially the result of behavioral changes following victimization. The fact that mediation between victimization and revictimization occurred through a cluster of changed behaviors and moods suggests that the impact of victimization is greater for females than males. This evidence that victimization changes behavior and increases risks and that these risks differ by gender has implications for both mental health care and law enforcement.
Police Reporting Practices for Sexual Assault Cases in Which “The Victim Does Not Wish to Pursue Charges”
Authors: Murphy Sharon B. , Edwards Katie M. , Bennett Sidney , Bibeau Sara Jane , Sichelstiel Julie
Published: October 2013

Prior research examining sexual assault case attrition has focused on the processing of cases across the justice system. Studies have examined arrest decision making and prosecutorial decision making in an attempt to better understand where and when cases drop out of the system. Less explored are police reporting practices during the initial stage of processing for cases in which the officer stated that the victim chose to drop her case. We addressed this gap in the literature by reviewing law enforcement incident reports at their onset, specifically; we examine reports of cases in which the officer reported the victim chose to drop the case. Results indicated that of the 125 cases of sexual assault reported to the police, 41 reports (32.8%) stated that the victim decided to no longer pursue charges. However, few police reports (30.2%) provided a clear rationale for why the victim decided to no longer pursue charges. Results of this study call for more standardized police reporting practices and point to the need for future research into the initial stage of law enforcement involvement in adult sexual assault cases.
Non-Fatal Gunshot Trauma Among A Sample of Adolescents in Djibouti
Authors: Wilson Michael L. , Lewis Erin R.
Published: October 2013

Firearm trauma is the second most common cause of serious injury among adolescents in the Republic of Djibouti. The aim of this study was to explore the sociodemographic correlates of serious injury and non-fatal gunshot trauma among adolescents in Djibouti. Using multinomial logistic regression, we compared a sample of adolescents ( N = 1,711) who self-reported a non-firearm-related serious injury ( n = 587) and those who reported a firearm-related injury ( n = 101) with non-injured participants ( n = 1,023) during a 12-month recall period. Analyses targeted demographic, behavioral, social, mental health, and family factors. After adjusting for covariates, participants reporting a non-firearm-related serious injury were more likely to report having been involved in physical fights (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 145; confidence interval [CI] = [1.04, 2.02), being bullied (RRR = 2.83; CI = [2.24, 3.56]), feeling lonely (RRR = 1.48; CI = [1.11, 1.96]), having signs of depression (RRR = 1.27; CI = [1.02, 1.58]), and be truant from school (RRR = 1.68; CI = [1.25, 2.28]). Those who reported a gunshot injury recorded being bullied (RRR = 2.83; CI = [1.77, 4.53]) and physically attacked at higher rates (RRR = 1.78; CI = [1.09, 2.89]). Serious injuries, whether firearm related or not, are important threats to adolescent health in Djibouti with potentially serious health-related correlates. More research, particularly multilevel designs, are needed to explain context-relevant factors associated with serious trauma in Djibouti.
Women’s Autonomy and Experience of Physical Violence Within Marriage in Rural India
Authors: Sabarwal Shagun , Santhya K. G. , Jejeebhoy Shireen J.
Published: October 2013

Evidence regarding the relationship between married women’s autonomy and risk of marital violence remains mixed. Moreover, studies examining the contribution of specific aspects of women’s autonomy in influencing the risk of marital violence using measures of autonomy that incorporate its dynamic nature are rare. We investigated the relationship between women’s autonomy and their experience of marital violence in rural India using prospective data. We used data on 4,904 rural women drawn from two linked studies: the NFHS-2, conducted during 1998-1999 and a follow-up study for a subgroup of women carried out during 2002-2003. Three dimensions of autonomy were used: financial autonomy, freedom of movement, and household decision-making. Marital violence was measured as experience of physical violence in the year prior to the follow-up survey. Findings indicate the protective effects of financial autonomy and freedom of movement in reducing the risk of marital violence in the overall model. Furthermore, region-wise analysis revealed that in the more gender equitable settings of south India, financial autonomy exerted a protective influence on risk of marital violence. However, in the more gender-stratified settings of north India, none of the dimensions of autonomy were found to have any protective effect on women’s risk of marital violence. Results argue for an increased focus on strategies aimed at improving women’s financial status through livelihood skill-building opportunities, development of a strong savings orientation, and asset-building options.
To Act or Not to Act, That Is the Question? Barriers and Facilitators of Bystander Intervention
Authors: Bennett Sidney , Banyard Victoria L. , Garnhart Lydia
Published: October 2013

A promising line of inquiry in sexual violence prevention involves training potential bystanders to intervene in situations where there is risk for violence. Theories of bystander intervention often discuss barriers to helping behavior, but there has been little empirical inquiry into this question. We will present findings of a study of both barriers and facilitators of helping behavior in the context of sexual violence among first-semester college students. Two hundred and forty-two first year college students completed surveys during their first year of college. Measures included assessment of bystander behavior, perceived barriers to helping, as well as a variety of other variables identified in the literature as key correlates of helping. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were used to (a) describe barriers and facilitators of helping, (b) examine the relationship between barriers and self-reports of helping, and (c) model individual differences in helping behavior. In quantitative analyses, barriers, as assessed in this study, were better predictors of helping behavior directed at strangers than helping of friends. Results suggested that open-ended responses about the facilitators and barriers to helping for sexual violence map well onto social-psychological models of bystander behavior, and that greater prosocial tendencies, an intrapersonal variable, increase actual helping behavior. A more specific understanding of what promotes and hinders helping can be used to enhance prevention education efforts focused on increasing helpful bystander actions.
Motivational Attributions About Intimate Partner Violence Among Male and Female Perpetrators
Authors: Whitaker M. Pippin
Published: October 2013

Given the widely acknowledged negative impact and pervasiveness of intimate partner violence (IPV), many have sought to discover why people perpetrate IPV. To this end, IPV risk factors have been extensively studied and attributions have recently received more attention. Evidence suggests males and females have similar attributions and both engage in IPV. Yet, IPV tactics and attribution rates appear to differ by perpetrator sex. This study explores whether males and females tend to attribute different reasons to their IPV, and whether these attributions help to distinguish among physical and psychological IPV tactics. The study tests three hypotheses: that IPV tactics and attributions will differ between females and males, that females and males will have similar latent constructs associated with types of attributions made about IPV, and that males and females will have different relationships among attribution factors and IPV tactics. This study is based on a cross-sectional survey of 5,035 18- to 25-year-old undergraduate university students in the Southeastern United States. Analyses used SPSS 20 to conduct basic and bivariate analyses, multiway frequency analysis, reliability analysis, and logistic regression, and MPlus 6.12 to conduct exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Overall, the results provide support for the three study hypotheses, although there was inconsistency in findings for the second hypothesis. The results suggest important practice and research implications, which are discussed. The study fills a gap in the limited literature on IPV perpetrator motivational attributions by presenting a nuanced analysis of an early measure of IPV attributions.
Combination of Inhaled Corticosteroid and Bronchodilator-Induced Delirium in an Elderly Patient With Lung Disease
Authors: Moss Jason M. , Kemp Debra W. , Brown Jamie N.
Published: October 2013

Steroid psychosis has been well described with oral glucocorticoids, however, our search of the literature did not identify an association between delirium and the combination of inhaled glucocorticoids and long-acting beta-agonists. We describe the occurrence of delirium with the combination of an inhaled glucocorticoid and bronchodilator. An elderly male described confusion and hallucinations within 1 week after initiation of budesonide/formoterol for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The combination inhaler was discontinued with resolution of symptoms. Several weeks later, the patient was hospitalized and restarted on the combination inhaler. The patient was alert and oriented on admission, however, confusion and hallucinations progressed throughout his hospital stay. The combination inhaler was discontinued and his confusion and hallucinations resolved by discharge. The temporal relationship of these events and a probable Naranjo association allows for reasonable assumption that the use of the budesonide/formoterol combination inhaler caused or contributed to the occurrences of delirium in this elderly patient. The onset of delirium was likely due to the systemic absorption of the glucocorticoid from lung deposition, complicated in an individual with several predisposing risk factors for delirium. Health care providers should be aware of this potential adverse drug reaction when prescribing inhaled medications to older patients at risk for delirium.
Graphene/polystyrene nanocomposites synthesized via Pickering emulsion polymerization
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Shi Tiejun , Wu Shengli , Zhou Haiou
Published: October 2013

In this study, graphene/polystyrene nanocomposites were first obtained by Pickering emulsion polymerization technique. The results showed that the thermal, mechanical, and conductivity properties of polystyrene were remarkably improved at low loading of functionalized graphene. In fact, the functionalized graphene could not only be use as an effective solid stabilizer for styrene-in-water Pickering emulsion but also be dispersed homogeneously into the production of polystyrene as highly effective nanofiller using this method. The superior properties of the graphene/polystyrene composites are the result of good dispersion of functionalized graphene in the polystyrene matrix.
Feeling Superior Is a Bipartisan Issue
Authors: Toner Kaitlin , Leary Mark R. , Asher Michael W. , Jongman-Sereno Katrina P.
Published: October 2013

Accusations of entrenched political partisanship have been launched against both conservatives and liberals. But is feeling superior about one’s beliefs a partisan issue? Two competing hypotheses exist: the rigidity-of-the-right hypothesis (i.e., conservatives are dogmatic) and the ideological-extremism hypothesis (i.e., extreme views on both sides predict dogmatism). We measured 527 Americans’ attitudes about nine contentious political issues, the degree to which they thought their beliefs were superior to other people’s, and their level of dogmatism. Dogmatism was higher for people endorsing conservative views than for people endorsing liberal views, which replicates the rigidity-of-the-right hypothesis. However, curvilinear effects of ideological attitude on belief superiority (i.e., belief that one’s position is more correct than another’s) supported the ideological-extremism hypothesis. Furthermore, responses reflecting the greatest belief superiority were obtained on conservative attitudes for three issues and liberal attitudes for another three issues. These findings capture nuances in the relationship between political beliefs and attitude entrenchment that have not been revealed previously.
Interstitial inflammation and long-term renal outcomes in lupus nephritis
Authors: Alsuwaida AO
Published: October 2013

Introduction

The International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society (ISN/RPS) pathological classification criteria of lupus nephritis are limited to glomerular injury. Although the tubulointerstitium is commonly involved, the importance of such involvement is not well defined. The major objective of this study was to evaluate the association of interstitial inflammation with the long-term outcomes of patients with lupus nephritis.

Patients and methods

A total of 73 patients who were diagnosed with lupus nephritis between 1996 and 2012 were analyzed. The follow-up data were obtained, and the analysis was conducted to determine the effect of interstitial inflammation on the rate of the doubling of serum creatinine or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in patients with lupus nephritis. Of the patients included in the cohort, 63 underwent a second biopsy.

Results

The degree of interstitial inflammation was positively correlated with the serum creatinine level at the time of biopsy ( p = 0.005) but not at the end of the follow-up period ( p = 0.9). The complements level, anti-dsDNA, ANA, and proteinuria were not related to the degree of interstitial inflammation. There was no relationship between the probability of remission and the severity of interstitial infiltrate. The rate of no remission was 40% among those without interstitial infiltrate, 34.6% in those with mild infiltrate and 23.5% among those with moderate-to-severe infiltrate ( p = 0.6). There was no relationship between interstitial inflammation at the baseline biopsy and worsening of renal function ( p = 0.17). There was a strong relationship between interstitial inflammation at the repeat biopsy and renal survival ( p = 0.005). The recovery of interstitial inflammation in lupus nephritis correlated with a favorable outcome in the patients with interstitial inflammation at baseline that had resolved at the repeated biopsy ( p = 0.047).

Conclusion

The persistence of interstitial inflammation is associated with poor renal outcome among patients with lupus nephritis. A comprehensive histological assessment of inflammation in lupus nephritis including interstitial inflammation may provide better prognostic information.
Trends in Electric Bike–Related Injury in China, 2004-2010
Authors: Zhang Xujun , Cui Mengjing , Gu Yue , Stallones Lorann , Xiang Huiyun
Published: October 2013

This study describes electric bike–related injuries from 2004 to 2010, and suggests injury prevention strategies to reduce electric bike–related injuries in China and other countries. Electric bike–related injuries data were obtained from the Bureau of Traffic Management at the Ministry of Public Security. Linear regression was used to identify statistically significant trends in electric bike–related injuries over the period. The results showed electric bike–related nonfatal injury rate had increased almost 4-fold and mortality rate increased 6-fold from 2004 to 2010. Linear regression showed a significant increase of 0.23 per 100 000 population per year (95% confidence interval = 0.18-0.29, P < .001) in the casualty rate from electric bike–related road traffic injuries. China will face new challenges arising from electric bike–related injuries. Programs need to be developed to prevent nonfatal injuries and fatalities caused by electric bike–related crashes in this country.
Effect of the September 2009 Sumatra Earthquake on Reproductive Health Services and MDG 5 in the City of Padang, Indonesia
Authors: Djafri Defriman , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Geater Alan
Published: October 2013

Indonesia has been making good progress in reproductive health (RH) outcome. This study aimed to examine the effect of the September 2009 Sumatra earthquake on availability and accessibility of RH services and its possible impact on local Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Twenty-six health facilities in Padang City were reviewed and 667 clients directly interviewed. Water supply shortage was most widespread and slowest to recover, taking more than 1 year to normalize. Antenatal and emergency obstetric care was minimally disrupted, and family planning practice of the study couples was not changed by the earthquake. The previous rate of improvement in maternal and child mortality was slowed down, whereas stillbirths increased after the earthquake. Thus, there is a need to speed up the recovery to achieve the local MDGs.
Intention to Engage in Preventive Behaviors in Response to the A/H1N1 Pandemic Among University Entrants in Four Chinese Cities
Authors: Keller Joseph J. , Kim Jean H. , Lau Johnson C. H. , Wong Alvin H. , Griffiths Sian M.
Published: October 2013

This study examined the factors influencing the uptake of A/H1N1-related preventive behaviors among Chinese university students. During the 2009 A/H1N1 pandemic, a survey was administered to 2882 university students across 4 Chinese cities. We found greater self-efficacy and a stronger belief in the benefits of preventive behaviors to be associated with the intended adoption of preventive behaviors. However, knowledge about the transmission of A/H1N1 was not associated with the intent to engage in preventive behaviors. These results may be used to inform pandemic prevention campaigns for university students in the region.
Prevalence of and Associations With Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in an Australian Older Population
Authors: Vashum Khanrin P. , McEvoy Mark Anthony , Hancock Stephen John , Islam Md Rafiqul , Peel Roseanne , Attia John Richard , Milton Abul Hasnat
Published: October 2013

The aim of this research is to estimate the prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness in an older population and associations with sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors using a cross-sectional, population-based study. Participants were men (1560) and women (1759), aged 55 to 85 years, enrolled in the Hunter Community Study, a longitudinal study of aging. Measurements were self-reported questionnaires, biochemical measures, and clinical measures. Of the 3319 participants, 3053 participants completed the Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaire. The prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness was 15.3% overall and this was higher in males. In adjusted multivariate analysis, gender, working full time, body mass index, high-density and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, Center for Epidemiologic Studies–Depression scale score, and Kessler psychological distress score were associated with excessive daytime sleepiness. Given the high prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness observed in this study, further investigation and/or interventions to reduce adverse health outcomes, especially in males is warranted.
Validation of an Oral Health–Related Quality of Life Measure for Cambodian Children
Authors: Turton Bathsheba J. , Thomson W. Murray , Foster Page Lyndie A. , Saub Roslan B. , Razak Ishak Abdul
Published: October 2013

This study aimed to determine the impact of dental caries in terms of Oral Health–Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) for Cambodian children. The Child Perceptions Questionnaires (CPQ) were cross-culturally adapted and validated for the Cambodian population using a sample of 430 Cambodian children. The participants had a high caries burden, with a mean number of decayed-missing-and-filled deciduous tooth surfaces (dmfs) of 8.8 (SD = 11.1) and a mean DMFS of 3.7 (SD = 5.5) for the permanent dentition. Two in 5 children had at least one pulpally involved tooth. There was a significant difference in mean CPQ8-10 and CPQ11-14 scores by caries experience and by global item response for the respective age-groups, with those in the more severe caries categories scoring higher. Similar gradients were apparent with the CPQ11-14 in the 8- to 10-year age-group. The differences in OHRQoL scores by caries experience demonstrate the construct validity of the CPQ11-14 for the 8- to 14-year age-group.
Risk Factors for Leptospirosis Infection in Humans and Implications for Public Health Intervention in Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Sakundarno Mateus , Bertolatti Dean , Maycock Bruce , Spickett Jeffery , Dhaliwal Satvinder
Published: October 2013

Prevention and control of leptospirosis require an understanding of risk factors. This review identifies risk factors associated with leptospirosis infection from countries in the Asia-Pacific region, and compares and contrasts these data with those available from Indonesia. MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scopus databases were used to search for relevant articles. Indonesian gray literature was searched for leptospirosis risk factor studies in Indonesia. A total of 34 articles were included in this review. The contrast between peer-reviewed publications and Indonesian gray literature revealed that the variety of risk factors associated with leptospirosis infection is region or area specific. The presence of skin wounds, the existence of rodents, especially rats, and activities related to contact with contaminated surface water are factors frequently reported to have significant association with leptospirosis infection in human in Indonesia and in other Asia-Pacific countries.
Stakeholder Perceptions of a Pharmacy-Initiated Tuberculosis Referral Program in Cambodia, 2005-2012
Authors: Bell Carolyn Anne , Duncan Gregory J. , Eang Rothmony , Saini Bandana
Published: October 2013

Intensifying detection of tuberculosis (TB) symptomatic patients is a priority for Cambodia’s National Tuberculosis Program, in a country where two-thirds of the population has latent TB infection. In 2005, the National Tuberculosis Program initiated a public-private mix (PPM) collaborative program with external and local stakeholders to identify and refer persons with TB symptoms from private sector pharmacies to public sector clinics for diagnosis and treatment. This qualitative study conducted in-depth interviews with organizational stakeholders to assess their perceptions of PPM program collaboration and its sustainability in the long term. Results showed that stakeholders perceived that collaboration and efficient management had contributed to positive program performance. However, stakeholders expressed anxiety over program sustainability should external resources be reduced. Recent developments in pharmacy undergraduate education and recognition of pharmacy providers’ contribution to public health interventions may challenge PPM stakeholders to shift the paradigm from dependence on external agencies to confidence in local expertise and infrastructure.
Trauma-Related Symptoms in Sri Lankan Adult Survivors After the Tsunami
Authors: Gunaratne Charini D. , Kremer Peter J. , Clarke Valerie , Lewis Andrew J.
Published: October 2013

Limited research has addressed factors associated with psychological distress following disasters among non-Western populations. The 2004 tsunami affected 1.7 million people across South Asia and Africa, with considerable variations in trauma-related outcomes. Pretraumatic and peritraumatic conditions associated with trauma-related symptoms in 305 Sri Lankan adult survivors (28% male, aged 18-83 years; mean = 39.9 years; standard deviation = 15.3), clinically assessed 1 month posttsunami, were evaluated retrospectively. Outcome measures were total scores on 11 trauma-related symptoms. Multivariate linear regression analyses tested for associations between pretraumatic and peritraumatic conditions and symptom scores, with peritraumatic conditions adjusted for pretraumatic variables. Pretraumatic conditions of female gender, employment, prior health and social issues, and substance use and peritraumatic conditions of loss of family, witnessing the tsunami, or suffering an injury were associated with trauma-related symptoms. The findings facilitate understanding cultural contexts that define risk factors associated with trauma-related symptoms in Sri Lankans, which are critical for developing culturally appropriate interventions.