bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Langues, identités et francophonie chez des étudiants universitaires issus de l’immersion française à Vancouver, au Canada
Authors: Marshall Steve , Laghzaoui Ghizlane
Published: May 2012

Abstract:

Canada's federal policy of multiculturalism within a bilingual framework (1971) means that in British Columbia French remains a modern language with a certain degree of privilege. While in BC only 1.3% of the population describe their first language as French (Statistics Canada, 2006), French immersion education is growing, with 7.6% of children studying in French immersion schools between kindergarten and grade 12 (BC Ministry of Education, 2010). Many studies have analyzed the learning of French in Canadian French immersion schools (Cummins, 1983; Dagenais & Day, 1999; Dagenais & Moore, 2008; Heller, 2001, 2006; Swain, 1974, 2000). However, there has been a lack of research into the language and literacy practices of French immersion graduates enrolled in anglophone universities. We address this issue by presenting data from an ongoing three-year longitudinal study, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, into the language and literacy practices of French immersion graduates studying at an English-medium university in Vancouver, Canada. In this context, the study focuses on the complex interaction between language practices, processes of identity construction, and discourses around the French language which the participants in the study encounter in their social and educational spaces.
Langfjordjøkelen, a rapidly shrinking glacier in northern Norway
Authors: Andreassen Liss M. , Nordli Øyvind , Rasmussen Al , Melvold Kjetil , Nordli Øyvind
Published: May 2012

In this paper we document changes of Langfjordjøkelen, a small ice cap in northern Norway. Surface mass-balance measurements have been carried out on an east-facing part (3.2 km2) of the ice cap since 1989. Measurements reveal a strong thinning; the balance year 2008/09 was the 13th successive year with significant negative annual balance (≤-0.30 m w.e.). The average annual deficit was 0.9m w.e. over 1989-2009. The recent thinning of Langfjordjøkelen is stronger than observed for any other glacier in mainland Norway. Maps from 1966, 1994 and 2008 show that the whole ice cap is shrinking. The total volume loss over 1966-2008 was 0.264 km3. The east-facing part has been greatly reduced in volume (46%), area (38%) and length (20%). For this part over 1994-2008, the cumulative direct mass balance (-14.5 m w.e.) is less negative than the geodetic mass balance (-17.7 m w.e.). A surface mass-balance model using upper-air meteorological data was used to reconstruct annual balances back to 1948 and to reconstruct unmeasured years 1994 and 1995. Sensitivity of annual balance to 1°C warming is -0.76 m w.e. and to 10% increase in precipitation is +0.20 m w.e.
Some Remarks on Fuzzy R0, R1 and Regular Topological Spaces
Authors: Ali D. M. , Azam F. A.
Published: May 2012

In this paper, five regular-axioms, eighteen -axioms and nine -axioms for fuzzy topological spaces are recalled. A complete answer is given with regard to all possible -type implications for fuzzy topological spaces. It is also shown that, though the regular-axiom implies -axiom in general topological spaces, this is not true for fuzzy topological spaces, in general.Keywords: Fuzzy Topological Space; Fuzzy -axiom; Fuzzy -axiom; Fuzzy regular axiom.© 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.6663 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 327-336 (2012)
Abomasal Nematodes in Goats Slaughtered at Different Abattoir of Thakurgaon District, Bangladesh
Authors: Nuruzzaman M. , Haque M. H. , Sarker S. , Begum N.
Published: May 2012

A study was carried out to estimate the prevalence, species composition and worm burden of abomasal nematodes of goats slaughtered at different abattoir of Thakurgaon district from November 2009 to April 2010. During the study period, 250 abomasum of goats were examined according to standard procedures. Two species of nematodes were identified in goats abomasum with an overall prevalence of 74.00% (n = 250). The specific prevalence rate for Haemonchus contortus (58.00%) was higher than Trichostrongylus axie (16.00%). In this study, prevalence of abomasal nematodes in relation to age, sex, breed and nutritional status of the goats were also observed. There was no statistically significant difference observed the risk factor sex in relation to the prevalence of abomasal nematodes. However, there was statistically significant difference (p < .001) observed among the risk factors (age, breed and nutritional status) in relation to the prevalence and worm count of two abomasal nematodes. In general, a high infection rate with abomasal nematodes was observed in goats during the study period. Findings suggested that higher worm burden per animal found in Haemochus contortus (6.02±0.0928) and lower in Trichostrongylus axie (0.04±0.14). From this study it was concluded that Haemochus contortus is more susceptible for geo-climatic condition in research area.  Keywords: Abomasal nematodes; Prevalence; Goats; Thakurgaon.  © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.  doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.7475 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 491-497 (2012)
Morinda citrifolia: Amino Acid and Lipid Content of the Noni Fruit at Various Stages of Maturity
Authors: Golden K. D. , Lindsay C.
Published: May 2012

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the amino acid and fatty acid content of Morinda citrifolia (Noni). The amino acid content both free and total was determined at the mature green, mature ripe and fermented stage of the fruit. Most of the essential amino acids were detected as free amino acids (unhydrolysed sample) at the various stages of ripening, with threonine showing the highest value (3.95±0.81 mg/100g) at the fermented stage and histidine showing the lowest value (0.05±0.02 mg/100g) at the mature green stage. The essential amino acids with the exception of tryptophan (destroyed by acid hydrolysis) were also detected as total amino acids (hydrolyzed sample) albeit at much higher concentrations. Leucine showed the highest value (94.21±18.85 mg/100g) at the mature ripe stage, whereas methionine the lowest value (2.80±1.02 mg/100g) at the mature green stage. The fatty acid content of the Noni fruit  was also determined at the green, ripe and fermented stages of ripening; with the short chain caprylic acid (80.69±3.09 mg/100g) showing the highest value at the ripe stage. Significantly the essential fatty acids linolenic (8.60±0.21 mg/100g) and linoleic (50.57±0.72 mg/100g) were highest at the green stage. Also present in significant quantities were palmitic acid (44.27±0.35 mg/100g) and stearic acid (4.78±0.45 mg/100g) at the green stage. The amount of fatty acids decreased significantly at the fermented stage. Of the fatty acids detected at the fermented stage 79% of them were below 1.00 mg/100g fresh weight of the fruit. Keywords:  Noni fruit; Amino acids; Fatty acids; HPLC. © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.8130 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 467-476 (2012)
Effect of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate and Acridine Orange on Isolation of Plasmid and Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern of Clinical Isolates of Klebsiella sp.
Authors: Shahriar M. , Mawla S. , Islam S. M. A. , Bhuiyan M. A.
Published: May 2012

The susceptibility pattern of 25 Klebsiella sp. samples, collected for a six months time period from diagnostic centers, was investigated against 16 different antimicrobials. All the isolates of this study exhibit resistance against cephalexin, cephradine, ciporfloxacin, cloxacillin, erythromycin, oxacillin, rifampicin and tetracycline. Most of the isolates were resistant to amoxicillin (92%), vancomycin (96%), neomycin (84%) and chloramphenicol (76%). A few of the isolates showed resistance to tetracycline (36%), ceftriaxone (40%) and gentamycin (56%). Seven multidrug resistant (MDR) out of the 25 isolates were selected and grown in varying concentrations of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in Luria broth. Their plasmid profile was also analyzed. Distinct plasmid bands were observed when the MDR strains of Klebsiella sp. were grown in 5% SDS and acridine orange (10 µg/ml) in Luria broth. One of the isolates (isolate no. 3) treated with 5% SDS and/or 5% SDS along with acridine orange developed sensitivity against ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, co-trimoxazole, gentamycin and neomycin. Keywords: Plasmid; Antimicrobial susceptibility; Multidrug resistant; Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.8445 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 499-505 (2012)
Mass Media Exposure and its Impact on Fertility: Current Scenario of Bangladesh
Authors: Fazle Rabbi A. M.
Published: May 2012

On the way to reduce fertility rate of Bangladesh, mass media plays significant role to raise consciousness about the family planning program on general peoples. In this study the impact of mass media has been measured by the pattern of watching television, listening radio and reading newspaper. Using the proportional hazards model, the mass media exposure found to be a significant differential of fertility even after controlling the effects of contraception, place of residence, and mothers educational and employment status. This implies, by taking necessary steps, mass media can be used much more adequately to reduce fertility rate of Bangladesh. Keywords: Fertility; Mass media exposure; Hazards model. © 2012 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v4i2.8917 J. Sci. Res. 4 (2), 383-395 (2012)
Differentiation of Chromaffin Progenitor Cells to Dopaminergic Neurons
Authors: Vukicevic Vladimir , Schmid Janine , Hermann Andreas , Lange Sven , Qin Nan , Gebauer Linda , Chung Kuei-Fang , Ravens Ursula , Eisenhofer Graeme , Storch Alexander , Ader Marius , Bornstein Stefan R. , Ehrhart-Bornstein Monika
Published: May 2012

The differentiation of dopamine-producing neurons from chromaffin progenitors might represent a new valuable source for replacement therapies in Parkinson's disease. However, characterization of their differentiation potential is an important prerequisite for efficient engraftment. Based on our previous studies on isolation and characterization of chromaffin progenitors from adult adrenals, this study investigates their potential to produce dopaminergic neurons and means to enhance their dopaminergic differentiation. Chromaffin progenitors grown in sphere culture showed an increased expression of nestin and Mash1, indicating an increase of the progenitor subset. Proneurogenic culture conditions induced the differentiation into neurons positive for neural markers β-III-tubulin, MAP2, and TH accompanied by a decrease of Mash1 and nestin. Furthermore, Notch2 expression decreased concomitantly with a downregulation of downstream effectors Hes1 and Hes5 responsible for self-renewal and proliferation maintenance of progenitor cells. Chromaffin progenitor-derived neurons secreted dopamine upon stimulation by potassium. Strikingly, treatment of differentiating cells with retinoic and ascorbic acid resulted in a twofold increase of dopamine secretion while norepinephrine and epinephrine were decreased. Initiation of dopamine synthesis and neural maturation is controlled by Pitx3 and Nurr1. Both Pitx3 and Nurr1 were identified in differentiating chromaffin progenitors. Along with the gained dopaminergic function, electrophysiology revealed features of mature neurons, such as sodium channels and the capability to fire multiple action potentials. In summary, this study elucidates the capacity of chromaffin progenitor cells to generate functional dopaminergic neurons, indicating their potential use in cell replacement therapies.
Les interactions entre la cour pénale internationale et le conseil de sécurité : justice versus politique ?
Authors: Blaise Noémie
Published: May 2012

Résumé Avec la création de la Cour pénale internationale, la communauté internationale s’est dotée d’une juridiction permanente et indépendante du système onusien. Une indépendance néanmoins relative si l’on considère les rapports qu’entretient cette juridiction pénale internationale avec le Conseil de sécurité. Seront tour à tour examinées les possibilités du Conseil de sécurité de renvoyer une situation au Procureur ou de suspendre l’activité de la C.P.I. ainsi que l’ouverture d’une enquête, dès lors qu’il est question d’un crime d’agression, et des conditions qui y sont relatives telles que définies par la Conférence de Kampala en juin 2010. Si ces interactions peuvent se justifier, le droit de véto des membres permanents du Conseil de sécurité permet de douter que ces différentes dispositions seront appliquées dans le respect du principe d’égalité entre Etats, principe pourtant inscrit dans la Charte fondatrice de l’O.N.U.
Bases para un futuro derecho penal internacional del medio ambiente
Authors: Martín Adán Nieto
Published: May 2012

Résumé Le texte vise à faire une proposition pour construire un futur droit pénal international de l’environnement. À cette fin, il est proposé un certain nombre de règles communes qui pourraient servir à harmoniser les législations nationales ou à élaborer un statut pénal international des crimes contre l’environnement, dont connaissait la Cour pénale internationale. Il souligne également la responsabilité pénale des personnes morales comme un aspect central de cette branche du droit pénal international. À cette fin, nous analysons les différents modèles existants de responsabilité, pour proposer un modèle basé sur la responsabilité individuelle des entreprises.
Multiculturalism and criminal law: the Brazilian case
Authors: Silveira Renato de Mello Jorge
Published: May 2012

Résumé Les concepts de multiculturalisme ont récemment eu un grand impact sur le droit pénal dans différents systèmes juridiques. Une fois qu’il est admis qu’un Etat peut comprendre différentes cultures, et que ces cultures doivent toujours être respectées, le retrait du droit pénal ou du système de justice pénale devient envisageable dans certaines situations. La dogmatique juridique fournit de nombreuses réponses, en utilisant des approches et des formules différentes. Ce sujet, qui a été discuté en Europe, Amérique et Océanie, commence aussi à intéresser le Brésil. Bien que la magistrature résiste à rendre le système plus souple, plusieurs lois et même des décisions juridiques ont commencé à accepter qu’une société plurielle exige une compréhension plurielle, historique et culturelle de la notion d’infraction.
La « gravité » dans la jurisprudence de la cour pénale internationale à propos des crimes de guerre
Authors: Estupiñan Silva Rosmerlin
Published: May 2012

Résumé Le Statut de Rome qui définit les fonctions et les pouvoirs de la Cour pénale internationale constitue la « règle du jeu » dont la portée est censée être dévoilée par la jurisprudence de la Cour. Dans ce cadre, les éléments constitutifs des crimes de guerre se développent au-delà des approches classiques à travers l’activité jurisprudentielle de la Cour pénale internationale. La présente analyse s’efforce de dégager un certain nombre de particularités quant au rôle de la gravité dans la poursuite des crimes de guerre sur le plan international.
Tratamiento penal de la diversidad cultural por la justicia estatal del Perú
Authors: Villavicencio Terreros Felipe A.
Published: May 2012

Résumé Le Pérou est un pays dont la diversité ethnique et culturelle (multiculturelle, multiethnique) a suscité un débat juridique sur le traitement pénal des actes criminels commis par des personnes avec différentes structures culturelles (par exemple les membres des communautés paysannes, les communautés autochtones situées dans différentes parties du pays). À l’heure actuelle, la reconnaissance constitutionnelle du multiculturalisme dans les différents pays d’Amérique offre un cadre pour la mise en œuvre de solutions à des cas de droit pénal que les tribunaux d’État ont à résoudre. Bien que cette question ait des retombées anthropologiques et sociologiques (que l’auteur développe dans d’autres endroits), cet article se concentre uniquement sur certaines solutions juridiques de fond que le droit pénal peut choisir pour traiter les situations qui méritent une valeur culturelle différente.
La conversation intérieure du thérapeute et les métaphores : exercice de formation
Authors: Rober Peter , Tilmans Karin
Published: May 2012

Résumé Ces dernières années, plusieurs auteurs ont décrit les conversations thérapeutiques à partir d’une perspective dialogique. Formation et supervision, par contre, n’ont pas encore été envisagées à partir de la perspective dialogique. Dans cet article, nous décrivons un exercice expérientiel de formation, centré sur les compétences dialogiques de base : interaction respectueuse et réflexions constructives. A la place d’instructions et de cours, cet exercice a pour but d’installer un dialogue. Les participants sont invités à prendre une partie active dans ce dialogue, en expérimentant des nouvelles positions, des nouvelles façons d’entrer en contact et en parlant des expériences et des perspectives nouvelles qu’ils ont apprises. Cet exercice est cohérent avec l’approche dialogique et postmoderne comme décrit par Seikkula et Olson (2003) puisque nous partons du concept de la conversation intérieure du thérapeute (Rober, 1999, 2005b) et puisque nous soulignons l’importance de la polyphonie, le dialogue et la tolérance pour l’incertitude.
Thérapeute de famille… intervenante en milieu scolaire : une fraternité obscure
Authors: McCulloch Patricia
Published: May 2012

Résumé Quelle est la relation subtile entre Edith Tilmans et sa pratique de thérapeute et l’approche systémique des difficultés scolaires en milieu scolaire de l’auteur ? Cet article décrit brièvement cette pratique et ses effets sur les enseignants et sur les élèves, présente deux exemples et démontre le lien essentiel avec Edith Tilmans qui, pour l’auteur, a conféré de la légitimité et du soutien à cette pratique systémique marginale.
Early Recognition of Pediatric Venous Thromboembolism: A Risk-Assessment Tool
Authors: Prentiss Andrea S.
Published: May 2012

Background

The incidence of venous thromboembolism in children has increased dramatically, with most cases occurring in children with cancer, surgery, trauma, congenital heart disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Early assessment of risk factors present in children would minimize morbidity and mortality from these events.

Objectives

To evaluate the reliability and validity of a tool for assessing risk for venous thromboembolism in children.

Methods

The tool was developed after a review of the literature with assessment of content validity by a multidisciplinary team of experts. Patients’ charts were reviewed retrospectively to establish reliability and validity of the tool. A P value less than .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Thirty-five charts were assessed for tool validity and were found to be statistically significant for all 3 risk score assessment categories. Logistic regression was used to assess 1001 patients’ charts for internal consistency, which was found to be high (χ25[n = 1001] = 100.6, P < .001). Results indicated that most patients at risk for venous thromboembolism were between the ages of 13 and 17 years, with females having more than 7 times greater risk than males.

Conclusions

Descriptive statistics show that the assessment tool displays strong reliability and validity. Results validated a significant relationship between the risk score and the incidence of venous thromboembolism. Findings suggest that use of the assessment tool could significantly reduce adverse outcomes associated with venous thromboembolism in children.
Intensive Care Diaries and Relatives’ Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder After Critical Illness: A Pilot Study
Authors: Jones Christina , Bäckman Carl , Griffiths Richard David
Published: May 2012

Background

Relatives of patients recovering from critical illness are at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder.

Objectives

To test whether providing a diary to intensive care patients and their relatives reduces the level of symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder in the relatives.

Methods

Observational study of close family members of patients who stayed more than 72 hours in an intensive care unit, recruited in 2 centers of a 12-center randomized controlled trial examining the effect of a diary outlining the details of the patients’ stay in the intensive care unit on the development of new-onset posttraumatic stress disorder in patients. The close family members of the patients were recruited to examine the additional effect of the provision of the patient’s diary on the family members’ symptoms related to posttraumatic stress syndrome.

Results

Thirty-six family members were recruited, and 30 completed the study. Family members of patients who received their diary at 1 month had lower levels of symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder (P = .03) at the 3-month follow-up than did the control family members.

Conclusions

Provision of a diary may help psychological recovery in patients’ families after critical illness.
Validation of the Measures of the Transtheoretical Model for Exercise in an Adult African-American Sample
Authors: Blaney Cerissa L. , Robbins Mark L. , Paiva Andrea L. , Redding Colleen A. , Rossi Joseph S. , Blissmer Bryan , Burditt Caitlin , Oatley Karin
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

African-Americans have high rates of physical inactivity-related morbidity and mortality, thus effective interventions to increase exercise are necessary. Tailored interventions show promise, but measures need validation in this population. This study validated transtheoretical model measures for exercise in an African-American sample.

Design.

Cross-sectional measure development.

Setting.

Telephone survey of individuals in North Carolina.

Subjects.

521 African-American adults.

Measures.

Stages of change, decisional balance (pros and cons), self-efficacy and processes of change (POC) for regular exercise.

Analysis.

Confirmatory factor analyses tested measurement models. Multivariate analyses examined relationships between each construct and stages of change.

Results.

For decisional balance, the two-factor uncorrelated model was the most parsimonious good-fitting model (χ235 = 158.76; comparative fit index [CFI], .92; average absolute standardized residual [AASR], .04), and alphas were good (pros α = .85 and cons α = .74). The one-factor model for self-efficacy (α = .80) revealed an excellent fit (χ29 = 45.51; CFI, .96; AASR, .03). For the POC subscales with good alphas (α = .62–.91), a 10-factor fully correlated model fit best (χ2[360] = 786.75; CFI, .91; AASR, .04). Multivariate analyses by stage of change replicated expected patterns for the pros, self-efficacy, and POC measures with medium-sized effects (η2 = .05–.13). Results by stage of change did not replicate for the cons scale.

Conclusions.

The structures of these measures replicated with good internal and external validity, except for the cons scale, which requires additional development. Results support the use of these measures in tailored interventions to increase exercise among African-Americans.
Sedentary Behaviors among Hispanic Children: Influences of Parental Support in a School Intervention Program
Authors: Cong Zhen , Feng Du , Liu Yin , Esperat M. Christina
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

To examine the effect of parental support on sedentary behaviors among Hispanic children.

Design and Setting.

A longitudinal quasi-experimental design with five waves of data collection was used to examine the effect of parental support on children's sedentary behaviors in a school-based intervention program in west Texas.

Subjects.

Hispanic low-income parents and their children of 5 to 9 years (N = 416 child-parent dyads) over a 22-month period (1217 observations).

Intervention.

Transformation Para Salud was a multicomponent intervention program aimed at prevention and control of childhood overweight and obesity. It used a community-based participatory research approach, including nutrition education, physical exercise, gardening, and family involvement.

Measures.

Sedentary behaviors were measured by parents' report of their children's daily screen time per week, including TV/DVD, computer, Internet, and video games. Parental support was measured with parents' reported support for active living.

Analysis.

Growth curve analysis was used to examine trajectories of sedentary behaviors of children.

Results.

Response rate was over 70%. Parental support reduced children's sedentary behaviors. Girls were less sedentary than boys, but girls were less affected by parental support. The intervention was effective in reducing children's sedentary behaviors over time.

Conclusion.

It is important for school intervention programs to mobilize parents to provide more support to reduce sedentary behaviors.
The Effect of a Designed Health Education Intervention on Physical Activity Knowledge and Participation of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Bodde Amy E. , Seo Dong-Chul , Frey Georgia C. , Van Puymbroeck Marieke , Lohrmann David K.
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to assess novel methods of health education and promotion to increase physical activity among adults with intellectual disabilities.

Design.

A pre-post delayed treatment design was employed to assess the effect of the intervention.

Setting.

The intervention was administered at two agencies that serve adults with intellectual disabilities.

Subjects.

Forty-two adults ranging in age from 19 to 62 with mild to moderate intellectual disability participated in the study. Participants were equally divided by gender.

Intervention.

An eight-session intervention employed a combination of video instruction, pictorial memory tools, and interactive class activities as educational methods.

Measures.

Physical activity knowledge was evaluated using Illingworth, Moore, and McGillivray's Nutrition Activity Knowledge Scale (NAKS) and the Physical Activity Recommendations Assessment (PARA). Average daily minutes of physical activity were measured using dual-axis accelerometers.

Analysis.

Paired and independent samples t-tests were used to assess the knowledge scales. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests were used to assess physical activity participation.

Results.

Overall, there were mean improvements in scores for both the NAKS (p < .05) and the PARA (p < .001) following the intervention. Physical activity also improved, but not significantly.

Conclusion.

The education and training methods used in this curriculum are promising for future health education programs in this population. Additional interventions may be necessary to improve physical activity participation.
Associated Pathways between Neighborhood Environment, Community Resource Factors, and Leisure-Time Physical Activity among Mexican-American Adults in San Diego, California
Authors: Martinez Suzanna M. , Ayala Guadalupe X. , Patrick Kevin , Arredondo Elva M. , Roesch Scott , Elder John
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

To examine pathways between individual, social, and environmental factors associated with leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among Mexican-American adults.

Design.

Cross-sectional design using random-digit dialing to administer a structured telephone interview.

Setting.

Mexican-American adults living in a U.S.-Mexican border community in San Diego, California (N = 672).

Measures.

Data were collected on LTPA, demographic characteristics, acculturation, and other psychosocial and environmental factors associated with LTPA.

Analysis.

Structural equation modeling to test an a priori model of LTPA.

Results.

Participants were mostly female (71%) with a mean age of 39 years (SD = 13). Only 32% of participants met PA guidelines in their leisure time, with men (39%) meeting the guidelines more than women (29%). Using structural equation modeling, neighborhood factors, both social and environmental, showed indirect relationships with meeting PA guidelines through community resource factors. Significant covariates included marital status and age.

Conclusion.

Individual, social, and environmental factors were associated with LTPA in this sample of Mexican-American adults. These findings can inform intervention studies that aim to increase LTPA in this population.
Evaluation of a University General Education Health and Wellness Course Delivered by Lecture or Online
Authors: Hager Ronald , George James D. , LeCheminant James D. , Bailey Bruce W. , Vincent William J.
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

To assess a single-semester university general education (GE) health and wellness course influence on physical activity (PA) and dietary habits among university students and to compare the course delivered through lecture or online for these outcomes.

Design.

A 15-week intervention with pre-post one-group design, allowing for comparative assessments in dietary and PA habits across time by delivery method (classroom lecture vs. online).

Setting.

A large Western university.

Participants.

Participants (n = 1638, female; n = 1333, male) were 82% university freshman or sophomores.

Intervention.

Participants were required to take a GE health and wellness course either by classroom lecture or online. The lecture and online curriculum content were similar. Participation in the study was entirely voluntary and was not connected to course grade.

Measures.

PA and dietary outcomes were determined from questions used in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey and were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Other validated questions were used to assess fitness.

Analysis.

The general linear model was utilized to determine group x period interactions when comparing the classroom lecture vs. online course.

Results.

Students improved overall level of PA by 12%, daily minutes of moderate-intensity PA by 8%, and fitness level by 2%. Students improved fruit/vegetable consumption by 4%, bran/whole grain cereal consumption by 8%, and brown rice/whole wheat bread consumption by 11%. All improvements were statistically significant (p < .001) with percent values indicating the size of the effect. The classroom lecture course yielded stronger improvements in several PA and dietary outcomes than the online course.

Conclusions.

A single-semester university wellness course may positively influence multiple PA and dietary behaviors; however, classroom lecture may be superior to online delivery.
Multilevel Analysis of the Physical Health Perception of Employees: Community and Individual Factors
Authors: Sathyanarayanan Sudhakar , Brooks Ambyr J. , Hagen Susan E. , Edington Dee W.
Published: May 2012

Purpose.

To investigate whether the communities where employees reside are associated with employee perception of overall physical health after adjusting for individual factors.

Design.

Retrospective cross-sectional.

Setting.

Active employees from a large manufacturing company representing 157 zip code tabulation areas (ZCTAs) in Michigan.

Participants.

22,012 active employees who completed at least one voluntary health risk appraisal (HRA) during 1999–2001.

Method.

Community deprivation and racial segregation at the ZCTA level were obtained using indices created from 2000 U.S. Census data. Demographics and HRA-related data (health-related behaviors, medical history, and quality of life indicators) at the individual level were used as independent variables. A two-level logistic regression model (employees nested in ZCTA) was used to model the probability of better self-rated health perception (SRH) (better health: 89.1% versus poor health: 10.9%).

Results.

Relative to those living in highly deprived communities, employees residing in less-deprived communities showed 2.06 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.57–2.72) and those living in moderately deprived communities showed 1.83 (95% CI, 1.42–2.35) increased odds of better SRH. After adjusting for individual-level variables, employees living in less-deprived communities had increased odds (1.31 [95% CI, 1.07–1.60]) and those living in moderately deprived communities had increased odds (1.33 [95% CI, 1.11–1.59]) of better SRH compared with individuals from highly deprived communities. The association of racial segregation with employees' SRH was mediated after adjusting for other variables. Individual-level variables showed significant statistical associations with SRH.

Conclusion.

Communities do have a modest association with SRH of the employees living there. After adjusting for individual-level and demographic variables, employees living in less/moderately deprived communities are more likely to perceive better physical health relative to those who live in highly deprived communities.
Underpaid or Overpaid? Wage Analysis for Nurses Using Job and Worker Attributes
Authors: Hirsch Barry T. , Schumacher Edward J.
Published: May 2012

Nursing shortages are common despite the fact that nurses earn far higher wages than other college‐educated women. Our analysis addresses the puzzle of “high” nursing wages. Employee data from the Current Population Survey are matched with detailed job descriptors from the Occupational Information Network. Nursing requires high levels of compensable skills and demanding working conditions. Standard log wage regression estimates indicate nursing wage advantages of about 40%. Accounting for job attributes reduces estimates to roughly 20%. Rather than transforming ordinary least squares log gaps to percentages, alternative methods measuring Mincerian gaps produce estimates of 15% or less. We conclude that nurses receive compensation that is much closer to opportunity costs than that seen in standard analyses, narrowing the shortage puzzle. Supply constraints in nurse licensing can produce wages above long‐run opportunity costs but that are too low to clear short‐run labor markets during periods of growing demand. The analysis provides broader implications for the conduct of wage analyses.
What to Target? Inflation or Exchange Rate
Authors: Lin Shu , Ye Haichun
Published: May 2012

This study empirically compares, for the first time, the popular exchange‐rate–targeting regime with the recently emerged inflation‐targeting framework in developing countries. Applying a variety of propensity score matching methods and dynamic panel generalized method of moments (GMM) regressions to a sample of 50 developing countries for the years 1990–2006, we find strong and robust evidence that, compared to exchange‐rate targeting, inflation targeting leads to a significantly lower inflation rate, and the lower inflation rate does not come at a cost of slower growth.
Trade Openness and Vertical Integration: Evidence from the U.S. Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Chongvilaivan Aekapol , Hur Jung
Published: May 2012

The present article aims to empirically examine a relationship between trade openness and the pattern of vertical integration using the six‐digit North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) of U.S. manufacturing data from 2002 to 2006. We use the index of vertical integration made out of inter‐plant transfers data by the U.S. Census Bureau, and we consider three proxies of trade openness—import penetration, export shares, and trade penetration. The empirical results substantiate theoretical proposition that trade openness undermines motives for vertical integration.
Estimation of Hybrid Phillips Curve: A Source of Conflicting Empirical Results
Authors: Hwang Hae-shin , Kim Woong
Published: May 2012

Recent empirical studies of the hybrid Phillips curve draw conflicting conclusions about the relative role of forward‐looking behavior and the role of marginal cost as the driving force. It is difficult to identify the source of the conflicting results in past studies because of differences in the measure of inflation, the estimation equation, and the instrumental variables. This article presents evidence that a source of the conflict is the use of suboptimal sets of instruments. When the optimum set of instruments is selected by using the L2‐boosting method from the principal components of a large number of valid instruments, all conflicting conclusions in previous studies vanish. Regardless of the choice of inflation measure and estimation equation, we identify the dominant role of forward‐looking behavior and a significant effect of the real marginal cost on inflation.
Environmental Depletion, Governance, and Conflict
Authors: Rus Horatiu A.
Published: May 2012

While the link between natural resource dependence and internal conflict has been approached from a variety of angles in a large and growing interdisciplinary literature, the feasibility‐discontent dichotomy still frames a fluid research agenda in both economics and political science. This article attempts to help bridge the gap by allowing for both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations of potential rebels. Simple non‐cooperative bargaining yields a nonlinear impact of regulatory quality on the likelihood of conflict and shows that corruption and resource depletion jointly affect the outcome. The empirical analysis that follows looks at the effect of environmental depletion and government corruption on the emergence of civil conflicts using a large panel data set. Resource depletion, the quality of governance, and their interaction are found to be significant determinants of civil conflict incidence. Results are robust to model and specification as well as to several steps taken to address potential endogeneity concerns.
In vitro Antimicrobial Comparison of Chlorhexidine, Persica Mouthwash and Miswak Extract
Authors: Moeintaghavi Amir , Arab Hamidreza , Khajekaramodini Mehrangiz , Hosseini Rohollah , Danesteh Hossein , Niknami Hamed
Published: May 2012

Aim

Herbal mouthwashes, such as persica (Salvadora persica, mint and yarrow extracts) and miswak extract have been shown to decrease gingival inflammation and plaque accumulation. The aim of this study was to compare the antimicrobial activities of persica and miswak extract with the conventional mouthwash chlorhexidine against Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus sanguis, Lactobacillus vulgaris and Candida albicans.

Materials and methods

In this in vitro study, blood-agar culture (Merk, Germany) was used to grow the streptococcus strains, saburd-dextrose culture (Merk, Germany) was used to grow C. albicans and MRS-agar was used to grow L. vulgaris. Various concentrations of these substances (0.1, 0.05 and 0.025% of miswak extract, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025 and 0.0125% of persica, 0.2, 0.1, 0.05 and 0.025% of chlorhexidine) were added to paper disks, separately, inserted into culture plates and transferred into the incubator. The inhibition zone around each disk was measured after 24 hours and the data was analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results

Chlorhexidine possessed antibacterial activity at all concentrations tested. It was more effective than persica and miswak at all concentrations on S. salivarius (p = 0.022 for 0.1%, 0.009 for 0.05 and 0.025%). It had greater effect than the other two tested material on S.sanguis only at concentration 0.01%. Chlorhexidine was the most effective against S.salivarius; persica was the most effective against Lactobacillus (p = 0.005) and the least effective against S. salivarius; and miswak extract was the most effective against S. salivarius and S. sanguis at concentrations 0.1 and 0.05% (p = 0.005) and ineffective against L. vulgaris. None of these mouthwashes were effective against C. albicans.

Conclusion

This study revealed that chlorhexidine remains the gold standard as an antimicrobial agent, although herbalbased mouthwashes do have marginal antimicrobial activities. It is necessary to conduct more clinical and microbiological studies focusing on periodontal pathogens and anaerobic microorganisms.

Clinical significance

Mechanical plaque control is the main way for periodontal disease prevention and mouthrinses are used to improve its efficacy. Based on the results of this study, chlorhexidine has the most antibacterial effect and although persica mouthwash and miswak are routinely used in some Asian countries their antibacterial efficacies are suspected.

How to cite this article

Moeintaghavi A, Arab H, Khajekaramodini M, Hosseini R, Danesteh H, Niknami H. In vitro Antimicrobial Comparison of Chlorhexidine, Persica Mouthwash and Miswak Extract. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(2):147-152.
Evaluation of Subgingival Microflora in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients
Authors: Kumar VV Harish , Kumar KP Manoj , Gafoor Abdul , Santhosh VC
Published: May 2012

The present investigation was designed with the aim of studying the microbiota of diabetic patients—both insulin dependent and noninsulin dependent and nondiabetic individuals. Each of the three groups had 15 patients, coming under the age group of 35 to 55 years and all having periodontitis.

Even though the microbial flora are almost the same, specific microorganisms may not be predisposing cause for the periodontal disease process in diabetics.

The study is clinically significant by means of its implication in the treatment of bacterial infections related to periodontitis and in those patiets who are having systemic diseases, like diabetes along with poor periodontal condition and infections.

How to cite this article

Kumar VVH, Kumar KPM, Gafoor A, Santhosh VC. Evaluation of Subgingival Microflora in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(2): 157-162.
Comparison of Temporomandibular Disorders in Iranian Dental and Nondental Students
Authors: Bahrani Farideh , Ghadiri Parnian , Vojdani Mahroo
Published: May 2012

Aim

The aim of this study was to define the prevalence and severity of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) among Iranian dental and nondental students who attended Shiraz University of Medical Sciences.

Materials and methods

The samples consisted of 200 subjects, 100 dental and 100 nondental students (equal distribution between males and females). Subjects ages ranged from 18 to 30 years (24.07 ± 2.93). A functional evaluation was performed using the Helkimo dysfunction index (Di). Data were evaluated by the Chi-square test.

Results

Among the total study population, 71% showed some degree of dysfunction. Prevalence ratio in dental students was 80%, while in nondental students was 62% (p < 0.05, odds ratio = 0.679). With respect to gender, women (80%) were more affected than men (62%). A significant relationship was found between gender and the occurrence of TMD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

A high prevalence of signs of TMD in Iranian university students was seen which was greater in dental students and women.

Clinical significance

The results of this study showed that the prevalence of TMD among dental students and women was significantly higher than nondental students and men. These findings might be due to poor postural style or emotional stress during dental practice.

How to cite this article

Bahrani F, Ghadiri P, Vojdani M. Comparison of Temporomandibular Disorders in Iranian Dental and Nondental Students. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(2): 173-177.
Symptomatic Changes of Oral Mucosa during Normal Hormonal Turnover in Healthy Young Menstruating Women
Authors: Balan Usha , Gonsalves Nitin , Jose Maji , Girish KL
Published: May 2012

Introduction

Changes in hormonal levels, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation and menopause, have varying effects on oral cavity. Many researchers have proposed a direct link between changing hormonal status and oral health among females.

Objectives

To study the various symptoms and clinical manifestations of oral cavity during normal course of menstrual cycle in healthy women.

Method

Our study comprised of forty healthy young women volunteers with normal menstrual cycle of 28 to 30 days. A proper menstrual history was recorded from the study subjects. The entire cycle was divided into four phases comprising of bleeding, proliferative, ovulation and secretory. All the study subjects had a menstrual cycle of 28 to 30 days. Thorough recording of oral discomforts during various phases of the cycle was done during the study period.

Results

30% of study subjects complained of aphthous ulcers, 5% had herpes labialis, 25% of them complained of depression, 8% showed gingival bleeding.

Conclusion

Complaints, like oral ulcerations, mood variations, recurrent herpetic lesions, gingival bleeding in females during normal menstrual period, are attributed to the role of female sex hormones.

Clinical significance

Lesions, like oral ulcers, recurrent herpetic lesions and increased gingival bleeding, seen in females during normal menstrual periods, could be related to hormonal turnover and therefore treated accordingly.

How to cite this article

Balan U, Gonsalves N, Jose M, Girish KL. Symptomatic Changes of Oral Mucosa during Normal Hormonal Turnover in Healthy Young Menstruating Women. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(2):178-181.
Prevalence of Dental Caries and Treatment Needs among the Orphan Children and Adolescents of Udaipur District, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Agrawal Anil , Rani PJ , Srilatha S , Khare Vikram , Koshy Ajit , Kapse Sonam C
Published: May 2012

Objective

The study was to examine the prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs among the orphan children and adolescents of Udaipur district, Rajasthan, India.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the oral health status and treatment needs of orphan children. The lists obtained comprised of 13 orphanages consisting of 923 inmates including both sexes. The survey proforma was prepared using a self-administered structured questionnaire written in English validated through a pretested survey. The statistical software namely SPSS 15.0 was used for the analysis of the data.

Results

The prevalence of dental caries in primary teeth was found to be 49.6% and in permanent teeth was 41%. Most of the children need one surface filling followed by pulp care.

Conclusion

The unmet needs for decayed teeth were also found to be high indicating a very poor accessibility and availability of any oral health care. Clearly, it can be concluded that this community has experienced a low utilization of preventive or therapeutic oral health services.

Clinical significance

Orphanage children in India are usually taken care by NGOs or social workers who do not realize that dental care and oral health forms an integral part of children well-being. So, this paper enlighten the prevalence of dental caries and treatment needs among the orphan children and adolescents.

How to cite this article

Khare V, Koshy A, Rani PJ, Srilatha S, Kapse SC, Agrawal A. Prevalence of Dental Caries and Treatment Needs among the Orphan Children and Adolescents of Udaipur District, Rajasthan, India. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(2):182-187.