bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risks, Assets, and Negative Health Behaviors Among Arkansas’ Hispanic Adolescents
Authors: Fitzpatrick Kevin M. , Choudary Wendie , Kearney Anne , Piko Bettina F.
Published: March 2013

This study examined the relationship between risk, assets, and negative health behaviors among a large sample of Hispanic adolescents. Data were collected from over 1,000 Hispanic youth in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 attending school in a moderate size school district in Northwest Arkansas. Logistic regression models examined the variation in the odds of youth engaging in negative health behaviors (antisocial or drug use). Within the context of a risk-assets framework, depressive symptomatology, negative peer networks, and community disorganization were related to higher odds of engaging in negative behavior. Knowing the difference between right and wrong—having some sense of a moral order—and having parents who exerted some control (curfew, etc.) were important assets lowering the odds of engaging in negative behavior. Risks and assets help to explain negative health behaviors among Hispanic youth not unlike their non-Hispanic counterparts. The findings in this article reemphasize the need for continued focus on special populations and the framework for understanding risk behaviors.
Childhood Sexual Abuse, Alcohol Use, and PTSD Symptoms as Predictors of Adult Sexual Assault Among Lesbians and Gay Men
Authors: Han Sohyun C. , Gallagher Matthew W. , Franz Molly R. , Chen May S. , Cabral Fabiana M. , Marx Brian P.
Published: March 2013

Prior research has indicated that childhood sexual abuse (CSA), alcohol use, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms are important risk factors for adult sexual assault (ASA). A notable limitation of this prior work, however, is that it has almost exclusively focused on heterosexual women. The present study sought to remedy this by examining the extent to which CSA, alcohol use, and PTSD symptoms related to ASA among lesbians ( n = 122) and gay men ( n = 117). Using structural equation modeling, we found that alcohol use was the best predictor of ASA among lesbians whereas CSA was the best predictor of ASA among gay men. These results suggest that certain risk factors may be differentially related to ASA among groups with different sexual orientations. Such findings deepen our current understanding of ASA and offer important directions for reducing the risk of ASA for lesbian and gay individuals.
The proximity effect: The role of the affective space of family life in shaping children’s knowledge about alcohol and its social and health implications
Authors: Valentine Gill , Jayne Mark , Gould Myles
Published: March 2013

Pre-teen children’s knowledge and experience of alcohol has been the subject of relatively little research despite the fact that this is a critical time given that the average age for the onset of drinking in Europe is now 12. Indeed, children are commonly only addressed in national alcohol strategies as the responsibility of parents/families, rather than as an audience for such messages in their own right. Yet, it is important to take a cross-generational perspective by exploring pre-teen children’s understandings of alcohol, as well as that of their parents, because adults and children may experience familial socialisation practices around alcohol differently. Too often adults’ views about what is in the best interests of children are read through the lens of age-appropriate behaviours which are predicated on deterministic theories of child development in which pre-teens are presumed to be too emotionally or physically immature to express their opinions, rather than on children’s own experiences of their life-worlds. This article draws on empirical research from a study of the role of alcohol in UK family life. It comprised a telephone survey of a nationally representative sample of 2089 parents with at least one child aged 5–12, and multi-stage case study research (including child-centred research) with 10 families who were purposively sampled from the survey. The findings presented in this article are primarily drawn from the child-centred element of the research supplemented by some data from the survey and interviews with parents. The article explores children’s knowledge of alcohol, their understanding of the health risks and social harms associated with drinking and the implications for national alcohol strategies. The conclusion highlights the significance of children’s experiential learning about alcohol through a proximity effect which occurs within the affective space of the familial home.
Nonlinear fluid-induced vibration and instability of an embedded piezoelectric polymeric microtube using nonlocal elasticity theory
Authors: Arani A Ghorbanpour , Shajari AR , Amir S , Atabakhshian V
Published: March 2013

Nonlinear vibration and instability of a smart piezoelectric microtube made of poly-vinylidene fluoride embedded in an elastic medium is investigated. The tube conveys an isentropic, incompressible fluid flowing in a fully developed irrotational manner. This smart microtube is modeled as a thin shell based on the nonlinear Donnell's shell theory. Effects of mean flow velocity, fluid viscosity, elastic medium modulus, temperature change, imposed electric potential, small scale and aspect ratio on the vibration behavior of the microtube are analyzed. The results indicated that increasing mean flow velocity considerably changes the nonlinearity effects on instability of embedded piezoelectric polymeric microtube so that small scale and temperature change effects become negligible. It has also been found that stability of the system is strongly dependent on the imposed electric potential. The system studied in this article can be used as sensors and actuators in sensitive applications.
Internally cooled tools and cutting temperature in contamination-free machining
Authors: Ferri Carlo , Minton Timothy , Ghani Saiful Bin Che , Cheng Kai
Published: March 2013

Whilst machining heat is generated by the friction inherent into the sliding of the chip on the rake face of the insert, the temperature in the cutting zone of both the insert and the chip rises, facilitating adhesion and diffusion. These effects accelerate the insert wear, ultimately undermining the tool life. Therefore, a number of methods have been developed to control the heat generation. Most typically, metal working fluids are conveyed onto the rake face in the cutting zone, with negative implications on the contamination of the part. Many applications for instance in health care and optics are often hindered by this contamination. In this study, microfluidics structures internal to the insert were examined as a means of controlling the heat generation. Conventional and internally cooled tools were compared in dry turning of AA6082-T6 aluminium alloy in two 33 factorial experiments of different machining conditions. Statistical analyses supported the conclusion that the chip temperature depends only on the depth of cut but not on the feed rate or on the cutting speed. They also showed that the benefit of cooling the insert internally increases while increasing the depth of cut. Internally cooled tools can therefore be particularly advantageous in roughing operations.
A time-domain finite volume approach for prediction of muffler transmission loss including thermal effects
Authors: Xuan Ling-Kuan , Gong Jing-Feng , Ming Ping-Jian , Jin Guo-Yong , Zhang Wen-Ping
Published: March 2013

A time-domain finite volume approach is presented for predicting the transmission loss of muffler including thermal effects with non-uniform sound speed field and density field, in which the acoustic wave equation in heterogeneous media is solved by using unstructured finite volume method with the temperature field specified or solved by some commercial code. An improved time-domain impulse method based on the absorbing boundary condition is applied to predict the acoustic attenuation characteristics of mufflers. The approach is validated by numerical simulations of a simple expansion chamber muffler and a complex muffler with five chambers. The predicted results agree well with the corresponding experimental ones and numerical ones obtained by finite element method with commercial code SYSNOISE. The results of both mufflers under different thermal conditions indicate that the temperature distribution has a significant influence on transmission loss. According to the analysis of a complex muffler with ideal medium, it is shown that the variation of working conditions can obviously affect density and sound speed distributions but have little influence on transmission loss. On the other hand, the obtained transmission loss with the solved temperature field deviates much from the one with specified uniform temperature field.
Effect of the diesel injection timing and the pilot quantity on the combustion characteristics and the fine-particle emissions in a micro-diesel pilot-ignited natural-gas engine
Authors: Zhou Lei , Liu Yi-Fu , Wu Chen-Bo , Sun Lu , Wang Long , Zeng Ke , Huang Zuo-Hua
Published: March 2013

Natural gas is a potential alternative to conventional liquid fuels for utilization in automotive internal combustion engines. Its utilization can significantly reduce the levels of nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions from dual-fuel diesel/natural-gas engines. However, this reduction in the particulate matter emissions may induce an increase in the quantity of particles of smaller size, which are harmful to human health. The engine parameters, namely the diesel injection timing and the pilot quantity directly, affect the homogeneity of the fuel–air mixture, the spatial distribution of initial ignition centres and the quantity of initial ignition centres. In this paper, the effects of these two engine parameters on the combustion and the particle emission characteristics of micro-diesel pilot-ignited natural-gas fuel are investigated. The combustion parameters were calculated from the cylinder pressure data. An electrical low-pressure impactor was employed to measure the particle number concentration and particle size distribution. Experimental results indicate that the ignition delay period is prolonged and the particle number concentration progressively increases with advance of the injection timing, while the particle mass concentration undergoes a steady decrease and then a rapid increase. On the other hand, increasing the pilot diesel quantity can shorten the ignition delay period and enhance the burning rate. Meanwhile, the particle mass concentration increases evidently but the particle number concentration decreases unexpectedly. It should be noted that the total number of fine particles is sensitive to advancing injection and decreasing pilot mass, especially above the 20° crank angle before top dead centre injection timing and below the basic pilot mass.
Multicriteria analysis of an ℒ1 adaptive flight control system
Authors: Dobrokhodov Vladimir , Xargay Enric , Hovakimyan Naira , Kaminer Isaac , Cao Chengyu , Gregory Irene M
Published: March 2013

This article presents an overview of the application of the Parameter Space Investigation method for the multicriteria design optimization of the ℒ1 adaptive flight control system implemented on the two turbine-powered dynamically-scaled generic transport model Airborne Subscale Transport Aircraft Research aircraft. In particular, this study addresses the improvement of a nominal prototype solution, obtained using basic design guidelines of ℒ1 adaptive control theory. The results validate the theoretical claims of ℒ1 adaptive control in terms of closed-loop performance and robustness and illustrate the systematic character of its design procedure. Furthermore, this article shows the suitability of the Parameter Space Investigation method for the multicriteria design optimization over a multidimensional design variable space of a flight control system subject to desired control specifications. The use of this particular method is of special interest, as it provides invaluable information about the behavior of the closed-loop system in an extended space of design parameters and performance criteria. The results and conclusions of this article have led to a deeper understanding of the characteristics of the closed-loop adaptive system and have contributed to the improvement of the flying qualities and the robustness margins of the adaptive ℒ1-augmented aircraft, which has been recently flight tested by National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Design and implementation of an optimal multiple-model adaptive controller for line-of-sight stabilization
Authors: Jalali Ali A , Golmohammad Hassan , Sadjadian Houman
Published: March 2013

Vibration reduces the ability of a camera to detect far-away targets that lead to the use of stabilized platforms. Despite much research on stabilized platforms, the need for more accurate systems still exists as a consequence of sensor resolution improvements. In this article, a multiple-model adaptive controller is designed for a single-axis system. There are two important problems associated with multiple-model controllers: number of models and their locations in an operating space. After describing the problem, the stability of the control scheme is verified in theory. Next, the closed-loop stability condition is used to find the minimum number of models. After that, models are located in a space of an unknown parameter by defining a cost function for line-of-sight stabilization. The performance of the introduced multiple-model controller is evaluated in simulation and real-time implementation. Then it is compared with a proportional-plus-integral controller and an H∞-optimal controller. As a result, the stability accuracy of the test platform improves in both simulation and real-time implementation.
Mid- to late-Holocene reservoir-age variability and isotope-based palaeoenvironmental reconstruction in the Limfjord, Denmark
Authors: Philippsen Bente , Olsen Jesper , Lewis Jonathan P , Rasmussen Peter , Ryves David B , Knudsen Karen Luise
Published: March 2013

Palaeoenvironmental and 14C reservoir age variability in the Limfjord, a sound through northern Jutland, Denmark, was investigated for the period 7300 to 1300 cal yr BP. Shells and bulk sediment samples from a core from a former inlet, Kilen, were analysed by radiocarbon dating and stable isotope (C/N) measurements. A strong correlation between the C/N ratios and δ13C values verifies that these are good carbon source indicators and thus allow environmental reconstructions. Furthermore, δ13C values are correlated with salinity in the photic zone, inferred quantitatively from diatom assemblages. They are therefore used to differentiate between brackish and marine palaeo-conditions. 14C reservoir ages of shells vary from Δ R=−140 to +300 14C years. Between 7300 and 5400 cal. yr BP, reservoir age and stable isotope values are highly variable and indicate mixing of marine water and brackish surface waters with hard water effects. After 5400 cal. yr BP, the Δ R values stabilise and show an increasingly marine environment, with 14C reservoir ages close to 400 years (Δ R=0). After 2000 cal. yr BP, Kilen becomes brackish. Reservoir ages and stable isotope values are again highly variable and δ13C and C/N values are no longer correlated. Before 4000 cal. yr BP, δ15N values vary by only 1‰ and do not reflect the changes in the marine environment. A δ15N increase between 3500 and 2000 cal. yr BP signifies enhanced organic productivity or a change in agricultural practices.
Growth charts of human development
Authors: van Buuren Stef
Published: March 2013

This article reviews and compares two types of growth charts for tracking human development over age. Both charts assume the existence of a continuous latent variable, but relate to the observed data in different ways. The D-score diagram summarizes developmental indicators into a single aggregate score measuring global development. The relations between the indicators should be consistent with the Rasch model. If true, the D-score is a measure with interval scale properties, and allows for the calculation of meaningful differences both within and across age. The stage line diagram describes the natural development of ordinal indicators. The method models the transition probabilities between successive stages of the indicator as smoothly varying functions of age. The location of each stage is quantified by the mid- P-value. Both types of diagrams assist in identifying early and delayed development, as well as finding differences in tempo. The relevant techniques are illustrated to track global development during infancy and early childhood (0–2 years) and Tanner pubertal stages (8–21 years). New reference values for both applications are provided.
Enhancing Pediatric Oncology Nursing Care Through Research, Quality Improvement, and Evidence-Based Practice
Authors: Bryant Rosalind , Rodgers Cheryl , Stone Suzette
Published: March 2013

Research, quality improvement (QI), and evidence-based practice (EBP) are knowledge-based methods used to enhance nursing practice. Nurses need to conduct studies to fill empirical gaps of knowledge (research), continually monitor health care practices and processes (QI), and systematically compile and review evidence (EBP). Research, QI, and EBP are valuable instruments within the health care setting as they can benefit the patient, families, health care team members, and the nursing profession, but it is important to understand when and how to use each method. This article will differentiate between and provide examples of research, QI, and EBP by focusing on the characteristics and purposes of each method. Clinical issues and concerns can transform practices based on evidence through the proper use of these methods. Nurses are highly motivated to create the best possible environment of healing for their patients. Therefore, it is essential that nurses use research, QI, and EBP so pediatric oncology knowledge can continue to evolve.
Using Graphic Organizers to Access the General Curriculum at the Secondary Level
Authors: Barton-Arwood Sally M. , Little M. Annette
Published: March 2013

Federal law requires that students with disabilities have access to the general curriculum. Specifically, students with disabilities must have access to, be involved in, and make progress in the same standards-based curriculum that students without disabilities receive. Intense demands of secondary settings as well as learning challenges present barriers for successful access for adolescents with learning disabilities (LD). Secondary teachers can use graphic organizers to minimize the barriers and increase the success of adolescents with LD. This article provides an introduction to the barriers experienced by adolescents, an overview of graphic organizers, and suggestions for use with adolescents with LD in secondary classroom settings.
Enhancing Secondary Cotaught Science and Mathematics Classrooms Through Collaboration
Authors: Dieker Lisa A. , Rodriguez Jacqueline A.
Published: March 2013

Coteaching at all levels can be difficult, but coteaching at the secondary level in science and mathematics can create unique challenges. This article provides examples of issues related to coteaching at the secondary level in theses critical content areas. Various types of coteaching are presented, and how each type might be integrated into science and mathematics classrooms is discussed. The article concludes with practical ideas and considerations for teachers, administrators, and teacher educators related to coteaching in the areas of science and mathematics.
The Promise and Peril of Organizational Neuroscience
Authors: Cropanzano Russell , Becker William J.
Published: March 2013

In this short response, we extend Lindebaum’s ethical analysis of organizational neuroscience. We do so in three ways. First, we examine the contemporary technical state of modern neuroscientific tools. Second, we consider the ethical implications of future investigations, including the possibility that neuroscience could enrich and otherwise improve peoples’ lives. Finally, we argue for a more open ethical dialogue—not only one that includes those who might be harmed by neuroscientific interventions but also one that does not neglect those who can be legitimately benefited.
FEM modeling of fiber/matrix debond growth in tension-tension cyclic loading of unidirectional composites
Authors: Pupurs Andrejs , Varna Janis
Published: March 2013

The fiber/matrix interface crack (debond) growth from fiber break in unidirectional composite subjected to high stress tension–tension cyclic loading is analyzed. The debond growth is simulated calculating the strain energy release rate GII by FEM in three-dimensional formulation and using power law with respect to the GII change to describe the debond growth rate. Two models were applied. In Model 1 the partially debonded fiber/matrix cylindrical unit with a fiber break is surrounded from all sides by an effective composite phase. In Model 2 the effective composite phase was used around the fiber/matrix unit except the region between the unit and the specimen surface, which contains neat matrix only. Calculations show that the average GII is slightly larger, when the analyzed fiber is closer to the specimen surface. The debond growth was simulated using interface fatigue parameters obtained from single fiber composite specimen tests in the literature. Simulation results show that debonds from fiber breaks close to the specimen surface grow faster than from fiber breaks inside the composite specimen.
Interface fracture in orthotropic composite plates using second-order shear deformation theory
Authors: Szekrényes András
Published: March 2013

The second-order shear deformation theory is used in this study to calculate the stresses and the energy release rates in orthotropic composite plates. A novel double-plate system is utilized with the imposition of the proper kinematic constraints in the interface plane of a double-plate system. The governing equations of the system were derived and as a demonstrative example a simply-supported plate subjected to a point force was analyzed. Using Lévy plate formulation, the plate problem was solved by a state-space model, incorporating four different regions. The distribution of the stress resultants and the interlaminar stresses in the uncracked part were also determined. Moreover, the distributions of the mode-II and mode-III energy release rates along the crack front were calculated by the J-integral. The 3D finite element model of the plate was created providing reference data for the analytical model. The results show reasonably good agreement between the analytical and numerical results. Also, the present model eliminates the physical inconsistency of previous models and reveals that under mixed-mode II/III condition, the energy release rate is not contributed by the bending, twisting moments and shear forces at all.
Employees’ Social Context and Change-Oriented Citizenship
Authors: Chiaburu Dan S. , Lorinkova Natalia M. , Van Dyne Linn
Published: March 2013

Change-oriented citizenship depends on support received from employees’ social context. Meta-analytic tests based on 131 independent samples and 38,409 employees confirmed positive relationships between leader, coworker, and organizational support and change-oriented citizenship, even after accounting for employees’ attitudes and intentions (i.e., job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and intention to quit). Moderator analyses indicated that specific coworker and organizational support had stronger relationships with change-oriented citizenship than generic support. In contrast, specific and generic leader support were equally important predictors of change-oriented citizenship.
ΔNp63 (p40) Distribution Inside Lung Cancer
Authors: Pelosi Giuseppe , Rossi Giulio , Cavazza Alberto , Righi Luisella , Maisonneuve Patrick , Barbareschi Mattia , Graziano Paolo , Pastorino Ugo , Garassino Marina , de Braud Filippo , Papotti Mauro
Published: March 2013

ΔNp63 (henceforth simply p40) is a squamous/basal-type biomarker corresponding to nontransactivating (non-TA) isoforms of p63 gene. Its prospective relevance as driver biomarker in lung cancer has not yet been thoroughly investigated. In all, 72 adenocarcinomas (ADs), 27 squamous cell carcinomas (SQCs), 13 pleomorphic carcinomas (PLCs), 10 small-cell lung carcinomas (SCLCs), 5 large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LCNECs), 5 adenosquamous carcinomas (ADSQCs), 3 large-cell carcinomas with basaloid features (B-LCC), 2 carcinoids, 2 carcinosarcomas (CS), 2 salivary-gland type tumors (SGTTs) of the lung, and 5 pleural malignant epithelioid mesotheliomas (MEMs) were prospectively diagnosed by morphology and verified by immunohistochemistry for p40, p63, and thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF1). Histological scores (HS) were devised by multiplying the percentage of immunoreactive cells (0 to 100%) by immunostaining intensity (low = 1 vs strong = 2, according to internal controls). There was a nonrandom distribution of p40 across the diverse tumor groups and cell differentiation lineages, with p40-HS > 100 closely paralleling squamous or myoepithelial carcinomas (SQC, B-LCC, SQC-containing PLC, ADSQC with predominant SQC, SGTT), and p40-HS ≤ 10 pinpointing AD, AD-containing PLC, or CS and neuroendocrine (NE) tumors. At variance, p63-HS was significantly higher than p40 in AD ( P < .0001) and NE tumors ( P = .0156), with positive predictive value being 83% and 95% and overall accuracy being 95% and 99%, respectively. Also, TTF1 was shared by gland-differentiated and NE tumors. MEM cases were always negative for all biomarkers. The HS-guided assessment of p40 allowed an effective orientation among thoracic malignancies at the level of individual tumor patients thereby contributing to prospectively realize a driver, holistic approach to cancer characterization.
A review of rapid prototyping integrated investment casting processes
Authors: Pattnaik Sarojrani , Jha Pradeep Kumar , Karunakar D Benny
Published: March 2013

Investment casting is competitive with all other casting processes where the size of the product is within a mutually castable range. Though investment casting is used to produce metal parts of any intricate shapes with excellent surface finish, it suffers from long lead time and high tooling costs, which makes it uneconomical for the production of either single casting, or small and medium production units. These problems could be overcome by the applications of rapid prototyping and rapid tooling technologies for low-volume investment casting production runs. The present article analyzes different classifications of rapid prototyping techniques and it reviews various investigations made on the usability of rapid prototyping- and rapid tooling-integrated investment casting process, with their advantages and limitations. The emerging areas of applications of rapid prototyping like dentistry, jewelry, surgical implants, turbine blades, etc., are accordingly discussed. Further, an elaborate discussion is made on the application of newer technologies for directly developing ceramic shells. This article also emphasizes on various future scopes possible in rapid prototyping-integrated investment casting process.
Evaluation of spironolactone plus hydrochlorothiazide in reducing proteinuria in type 2 diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Momeni Ali , Behradmanesh Mohammad Saeed , Kheiri Soleiman , Karami Horestani Mohammad
Published: March 2013

Introduction:

Inhibitors of the renin–angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) are the basic drugs for treatment of diabetic nephropathy, as to some extent is spironolactone. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of spironolactone versus spironolactone plus hydrochlorothiazide in decreasing proteinuria in type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Methods:

In a double-blind clinical trial, 60 T2DM patients with nephropathy randomly assigned to three equal groups were enrolled. Spironolactone (50 mg/day) plus placebo, spironolactone (50 mg/day) plus hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg/day), and hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg/day) plus placebo were prescribed, respectively. The duration of treatment was three months for all patients. Urine protein was measured at the beginning and end of the study and analysis of data was performed.

Results:

Twenty-six of the patients were male, with a total mean age of 56.8±8.3 years. Mean 24-h urine protein was reduced in patients in groups 1 and 2 compared to the third group ( p < 0.001). Serum potassium in the first group showed a significant increase of 0.26 meq/lit with mean 4.64 ± 0.28 meq/lit ( p=0.002), but it did not change in the second and third groups.

Conclusion:

Our results showed that spironolactone plus hydrochlorothiazide is an effective and inexpensive modality in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy without increasing serum potassium.
Ecological education and action research: A transformative blend for formal and nonformal educators
Authors: Duenkel Nicky , Pratt Judy
Published: March 2013

Action research, within the context of an ecological education graduate degree, can result in transformative learning experiences for formal and nonformal educators. Encountering layers of hegemony and awakening to relations of power facilitated a profound shift within these teacher-researchers, engendering a newly felt sense of empowerment. Integral to the transformative learning process were opportunities for reflection fostering greater balance between the personal and professional, learning to accept feelings of confusion and disorientation, and evolving a deeper understanding of ecological education. Moreover, this investigation reveals the existence of a synergistic relationship between ecological education, action research, and transformative learning. This kinship is substantiated through analysis of data from four cohorts of students engaged in capstone action research projects.
Integrating Academic and Clinical Learning Using a Clinical Swallowing Assessment
Authors: Phillips Daniel E.
Published: March 2013

This article describes an experiential learning activity designed to integrate classroom knowledge and a clinical swallowing assessment. Twenty master’s-level graduate students in a dysphagia course conducted a clinical swallowing assessment with a resident of an independent retirement community. The exercise was designed to allow students an opportunity to obtain a case history and assess the oral motor and swallowing abilities of older adults without clinical dysphagia. The students’ favorable responses from evaluating the experience suggested that it is a beneficial activity to bridge academic knowledge and emerging clinical skills. The areas the students considered most beneficial were the following: asking questions during the case history interview, providing clear explanations and directions during tasks, practicing the clinical task and observing a normal swallow, and increased confidence and competence to perform a clinical swallowing assessment. This activity could be used in academic training programs regardless of location and availability of clients.
Keeping Them and Moving Them
Authors: Ihlebæk Karoline Andrea , Syvertsen Trine , Ytreberg Espen
Published: March 2013

The article explores television scheduling in the phase of proliferation, a period following phases of monopoly and competition, characterized by a drastic multiplication of content, television channels, and new platforms. Based on interviews with professionals involved in scheduling and cross-platform promotion at Norway’s four main broadcasters, a sample study of actual cross-platform promotion, and relevant statistics for the Norwegian TV market, the article explores changes in scheduling with a particular focus on the distinction between commercial and public service television. The transformations in scheduling are addressed in relation to the broader question of how television is developing in the “post-network” era. The article argues that contrary to claims that scheduling has become obsolete, analyses show that it continues to be a central craft within the television industry, one responding actively to times of change, revising its tools and developing new ones.
Single Session of Dual-tDCS Transiently Improves Precision Grip and Dexterity of the Paretic Hand After Stroke
Authors: Lefebvre Stéphanie , Thonnard Jean-Louis , Laloux Patrice , Peeters André , Jamart Jacques , Vandermeeren Yves
Published: March 2013

Background. After stroke, deregulated interhemispheric interactions influence residual paretic hand function. Anodal or cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can rebalance these abnormal interhemispheric interactions and improve motor function. Objective. We explored whether dual-hemisphere tDCS (dual-tDCS) in participants with chronic stroke can improve fine hand motor function in 2 important aspects: precision grip and dexterity. Methods. In all, 19 chronic hemiparetic individuals with mild to moderate impairment participated in a double-blind, randomized trial. During 2 separate cross-over sessions (real/sham), they performed 10 precision grip movements with a manipulandum and the Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT) before, during, immediately after, and 20 minutes after dual-tDCS applied simultaneously over the ipsilesional (anodal) and contralateral (cathodal) primary motor cortices. Results. The precision grip performed with the paretic hand improved significantly 20 minutes after dual-tDCS, with reduction of the grip force/load force ratio by 7% and in the preloading phase duration by 18% when compared with sham. The dexterity of the paretic hand started improving during dual-tDCS and culminated 20 minutes after the end of dual-tDCS (PPT score +38% vs +5% after sham). The maximal improvements in precision grip and dexterity were observed 20 minutes after dual-tDCS. These improvements correlated negatively with residual hand function quantified with ABILHAND. Conclusions. One bout of dual-tDCS improved the motor control of precision grip and digital dexterity beyond the time of stimulation. These results suggest that dual-tDCS should be tested in longer protocols for neurorehabilitation and with moderate to severely impaired patients. The precise timing of stimulation after stroke onset and associated training should be defined.
Monogamy on the Street
Authors: Brown Ryan A. , Kennedy David P. , Tucker Joan S. , Golinelli Daniela , Wenzel Suzanne L.
Published: March 2013

In this study, we used a mixed methods approach to explore the determinants of relationship patterns and risky sex among homeless men living in downtown Los Angeles. This involved analysis of qualitative interviews focused on gender ideology and sexual events ( n = 30) as well as structured interviews ( n = 305) focused on homeless men’s sexual partners, sexual behaviors, and social networks. We found that men valued committed relationships but were frustrated by their lack of access to female partners (accentuated by the stigma attached to homeless males) and also by structural and logistical barriers to relationships. Some men reported monogamous relationships; such relationships were less likely with homeless or substance-using partners and more likely with partners central to men’s social networks.
The Impact of Pistachio Consumption on Blood Lipid Profile
Authors: London Hilary A. , Pawlak Roman , Colby Sarah E. , Wall-Bassett Elizabeth , Sira Natalia
Published: March 2013

Studies showed that nut consumption is associated with a reduced risk in cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and morbidity and an improvement in the modifiable CVD risk factors. Our objective was to review studies that reported the effect of pistachios intake on blood lipid profile. A PUBMED and Loma Linda University Nut Library database search was conducted to identify relevant studies. Eight relevant studies were identified and included in the review. With a few exceptions, the results showed a consistent improvement in serum lipid profile, improving all cholesterol fractions. With one exception, all studies reported a large decrease in the mean LDL-cholesterol ranging from 7.6 to 9.7% of the baseline level. In four of the seven studies that reported a change in HDL-cholesterol level, the mean HDL-cholesterol increased after the intervention. In all but one studies that reported the change in TG, the post-test values were reduced. The majority of the studies reported statistically significant reduction in the mean TC and LDL-cholesterol fractions. Similarly, all studies that reported a change in TC/HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios reported a statistically significant improvement. Adding pistachios to a typical diet of normo and hypercholesterolemic individuals have a beneficial effect on blood lipid profile.
Using a range of methods to access children's voices
Authors: Lambert Veronica , Glacken Michele , McCarron Mary
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this paper is to describe, and reflect upon, a number of methods deployed to facilitate sick children to have a voice within an acute health care setting. Using an ethnographic approach to investigate the nature of communication between children and health professionals, multiple modes of data collection were employed to engage children's interest, motivation and facilitate child empowerment in the process. The simultaneous use of semi-participant observations, informal interviews and participatory activities ensured that the diverse abilities, interests and preferences of children were acknowledged. Multiple data sources permitted the portrayal of a comprehensive picture which we believe enhanced the trustworthiness of the data. However, as with all data collection methods, researchers need to be critically aware of strengths and weaknesses and these will be reflected upon. Ultimately, it was crucial to use participatory activities in context and have continuous dialogue with the participating children. The goal was to achieve a balance between creative instruments and commonplace conversation. We believe the unstructured and flexible approach, and variety of data collection methods, utilised in our study enhanced its accuracy, truthfulness and reduced the subjectivity of children's responses. In sharing our experiences, we endeavour to assist other researchers in conducting research with children.
Exploring the corollaries of students’ social justice intentionality
Authors: Smith Laura , Lau Michael Y.
Published: March 2013

The preparation of students to take part in social justice advocacy has been increasingly embraced within higher education in the USA; nevertheless, the corollaries of social justice intentionality and commitment among students have yet to be investigated thoroughly. To contribute to the study of this question, data from 217 American psychology students were analyzed via a hierarchical multiple regression model that examined the ability of demographic variables, program enrollment and endorsement of structural explanations of racism and poverty to account for variability in social justice intentionality. Results indicated that awareness of structural aspects of oppression was more important than program enrollment or demographic variables in explaining social justice intentionality.
Testosterone reduces vascular relaxation by altering cyclic adenosine monophosphate pathway and potassium channel activation in male Sprague Dawley rats fed a high-salt diet
Authors: Oloyo Ahmed K. , Sofola Olusoga A. , Anigbogu Chikodi N. , Nair Renuka R. , Vijayakumar Harikrishnan S. , Fernandez Adelaide C.
Published: March 2013

Objectives:

Male gender and high-salt diet are risk factors for hypertension. The effect of chronic exposure to testosterone is an increase in vascular tone but its influence upon responses induced by other vasoactive agents is not clear. We considered the possibility of interactions between testosterone and a high-salt diet in the mechanisms that are involved in the regulation of vascular tone. Therefore, we designed experiments to assess the involvement of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) pathway and potassium channel activation on vascular relaxation elicited by testosterone deficiency that was induced by orchidectomy in Sprague Dawley rats on a normal or high-salt diet.

Method:

Weanling male rats were randomly divided into eight groups ( n = 6 each) that were either orchidectomized or sham operated with or without testosterone replacement (10 mg/kg body weight of Sustanon 250 intramuscularly, Organon, Holland) and were placed on a normal or high-salt (0.3% or 8% NaCl) diet, respectively, for 6 weeks. Arterial blood pressure was determined before and weekly throughout the experiment using the tail-cuff method. Relaxation responses to forskolin and diazoxide were studied in noradrenaline (0.1 µM) precontracted aortic rings.

Results:

There was an increase in the systolic blood pressure of rats placed on a high-salt diet compared with control or orchidectomized rats. Orchidectomy elicited a reduction in the systolic blood pressure while testosterone replacement restored systolic blood pressure to values seen in intact rats. A high-salt diet reduced the relaxation response to forskolin and diazoxide but not in orchidectomized rats while testosterone replacement re-established the blunted relaxation response to forskolin and diazoxide.

Conclusion:

Inhibition of potassium channel or adenylyl cyclase activation appears to contribute to the mechanisms by which a high-salt diet increases vascular tone. These effects were counteracted by orchidectomy in male Sprague Dawley rats.
Endomicroscopy in bile duct: Inflammation interferes with pCLE applied in the bile duct: A prospective study of 54 patients
Authors: Caillol Fabrice , Bories Erwan , Poizat Flora , Pesenti Christian , Esterni Benjamin , Monges Geneviève , Giovannini Marc
Published: March 2013

Background

The preoperative diagnosis of biliary stenosis is associated with low accuracy. As a consequence, probe‐based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE), an in‐vivo histological imaging technique, was applied in the bile duct. The aim of this study was to establish whether previous inflammation of the bile duct affects confocal interpretation. The findings from pCLE were compared in two groups of patients: those in whom there had been no cholangitis nor stenting and those in whom stents had been used and subsequently retrieved or who had suffered cholangitis.

Patients and methods

pCLE was performed on 54 patients (mean age 66 years; 31 men, 23 women) from September 2008 to July 2011. Patients were divided in two groups: group 1: 39 patients who had not undergone a biliary procedure in the month preceding the pCLE procedure; and group 2: 15 patients who had undergone stent placement or presented with cholangitis in the month preceding the pCLE procedure. Endoscopic and pCLE data were collected prospectively. pCLE results were compared to benchmark histology (surgery, endoultrasonography, percutaneous biopsy). Patients with a benign stricture who did not undergo operation were followed for 1 year. pCLE images of the bile duct were obtained during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures. pCLE images were interpreted prospectively using the Miami classification in vivo and in real time.

Results

In group 1, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 88, 83, and 87%, respectively. In group 2, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 75, 71, and 73%, respectively. Diagnostic accuracy of pCLE was lower when applied to group 2 (p  < 0,001). The investigation is less reliable in bile ducts affected by inflammation from cholangitis or previous stenting.

Conclusions

Inflammatory lesions of the bile duct interfere with interpretation of pCLE. A refined pCLE description of inflammatory lesions should improve accuracy of pCLE in bile duct stenosis.
The use of a multimodal enhanced recovery program for patients undergoing radical cystectomy
Authors: Blick C , Hadway P , Patel N , Lal S , Kelleher JP , Haldar N , Muneer A
Published: March 2013

Objective:

Radical cystectomy is a major oncological procedure, which is associated with a morbidity rate of 30% and a hospital stay of approximately 15 days. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a multimodal enhanced recovery program on the post-operative recovery period.

Patients:

Forty-six patients underwent radical cystectomy for invasive or high-grade bladder cancer with curative intent at a single urology unit between June 2005 and March 2009. All patients were placed on an enhanced recovery pathway, which included a change in the surgical technique and alterations in pre-, peri- and post-operative management. The main outcome measures were length of stay, time to full diet, transfusion requirement, complications and readmission rates.

Results:

The median length of stay in this unit was reduced from 17 to eight days (range 6–22). There were five major complications and a readmission rate of 10.6%. Transfusion rates were not affected and there were no deaths within three months of surgery.

Conclusions:

We have demonstrated that this multimodal pathway, which also utilises a modification in the surgical technique, is both feasible and effective in order to improve the post-operative recovery and shorten hospital stay.
Implicit Attitudes Turned Upside Down
Authors: Aarstad Jarle
Published: March 2013

Did the Utøya massacre on July 22, 2011, affect Norwegians’ implicit attitudes on issues related to Islam or Islamic people? Experiments carried out on student cohorts before and after the incident show that the U.S. President’s middle name, “Hussein,” was negatively associated with the students’ perceptions of Obama’s ability to fight terror in 2010, but in 2011 the effect was significantly more positive. The difference in attitudes between the cohorts was prevalent for politically decisive students only, and the effect may be attributed to the Utøya incident. The “Hussein” word did not affect the perceptions of Obama’s abilities as President on other items listed.
Structural characterisation of iron aluminide coatings prepared by chemical vapour deposition
Authors: John J T , Sundararaman M , Dubey V , Srinivasa R S
Published: March 2013

The present paper presents the results of iron aluminide coatings formed on pure iron by low pressure chemical vapour deposition. The coatings were characterised using X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, TEM and electron microprobe analyser. Three distinct layers were seen in the optical micrographs in the coatings where deposition was carried out above the α– γ transformation temperature. The smaller thickness of the top layer compared to that of the second layer has been attributed to the smaller diffusivity of Fe compared to Al in FeAl. The formation of the third layer has been rationalised based on the fact that at deposition temperatures >1185 K, solid solution with Al above 1·5 at-% transforms to α with a definite boundary, while solid solution with less that 1·5 at-%Al will remain as γ close to the substrate. Those deposited below this temperature will remain in α at all compositions, and no boundary is formed.
NK cell CD16 surface expression and function is regulated by a disintegrin and metalloprotease-17 (ADAM17)
Authors: Romee Rizwan , Foley Bree , Lenvik Todd , Wang Yue , Zhang Bin , Ankarlo Dave , Luo Xianghua , Cooley Sarah , Verneris Mike , Walcheck Bruce , Miller Jeffrey
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Activated NK cells loose CD16 (FcRγIII) and CD62L through a metalloprotease called ADAM17. Inhibition of ADAM17 enhances CD16 mediated NK cell function by preserving CD16 on the NK cell surface to enhance ADCC.
A CALM-derived nuclear export signal is essential for CALM-AF10–mediated leukemogenesis
Authors: Conway Amanda E. , Scotland Paula B. , Lavau Catherine P. , Wechsler Daniel S.
Published: March 2013

Key Points

An NES within CALM is necessary and sufficient for CALM-AF10–mediated transformation. Presence of the CALM NES confers transformation potential to AF10 through perturbation of H3K79 methylation and Hoxa cluster expression.