bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroacoustic Comparison of Hearing Aid Output of Phonemes in Running Speech versus Isolation: Implications for Aided Cortical Auditory Evoked Potentials Testing
Authors: Easwar Vijayalakshmi , Purcell David W. , Scollie Susan D.
Published: December 2012

Background. Functioning of nonlinear hearing aids varies with characteristics of input stimuli. In the past decade, aided speech evoked cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs) have been proposed for validation of hearing aid fittings. However, unlike in running speech, phonemes presented as stimuli during CAEP testing are preceded by silent intervals of over one second. Hence, the present study aimed to compare if hearing aids process phonemes similarly in running speech and in CAEP testing contexts.Method. A sample of ten hearing aids was used. Overall phoneme level and phoneme onset level of eight phonemes in both contexts were compared at three input levels representing conversational speech levels.Results. Differences of over 3 dB between the two contexts were noted in one-fourth of the observations measuring overall phoneme levels and in one-third of the observations measuring phoneme onset level. In a majority of these differences, output levels of phonemes were higher in the running speech context. These differences varied across hearing aids.Conclusion. Lower output levels in the isolation context may have implications for calibration and estimation of audibility based on CAEPs. The variability across hearing aids observed could make it challenging to predict differences on an individual basis.
StopWatcher: A Mobile Application to Improve Stop Sign Awareness for Driving Safety
Authors: Tucker Carl , Tucker Rachel , Zheng Jun
Published: December 2012

Stop signs are the primary form of traffic control in the United States. However, they have a tendency to be much less effective than other forms of traffic control like traffic lights. This is due to their smaller size, lack of lighting, and the fact that they may become visually obscured from the road. In this paper, we offer a solution to this problem in the form of a mobile application implemented in the Android platform: StopWatcher. It is designed to alert a driver when they are approaching a stop sign using a voice notification system (VNS). A field test was performed in a snowy environment. The test results demonstrate that the application can detect all of the stop signs correctly, even when some of them were obstructed by the snow, which in turn greatly improves the user awareness of stop signs.
Macrophages, Inflammation, and Tumor Suppressors: ARF, a New Player in the Game
Authors: Través Paqui G. , Luque Alfonso , Hortelano Sonsoles
Published: December 2012

The interaction between tumor progression and innate immune system has been well established in the last years. Indeed, several lines of clinical evidence indicate that immune cells such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) interact with tumor cells, favoring growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis of a variety of cancers. In most tumors, TAMs show properties of an alternative polarization phenotype (M2) characterized by the expression of a series of chemokines, cytokines, and proteases that promote immunosuppression, tumor proliferation, and spreading of the cancer cells. Tumor suppressor genes have been traditionally linked to the regulation of cancer progression; however, a growing body of evidence indicates that these genes also play essential roles in the regulation of innate immunity pathways through molecular mechanisms that are still poorly understood. In this paper, we provide an overview of the immunobiology of TAMs as well as what is known about tumor suppressors in the context of immune responses. Recent advances regarding the role of the tumor suppressor ARF as a regulator of inflammation and macrophage polarization are also reviewed.
Does Melanoma Begin in a Melanocyte Stem Cell?
Authors: Hoerter James D. , Bradley Patrick , Casillas Alexandria , Chambers Danielle , Weiswasser Brandon , Clements Lauren , Gilbert Sarah , Jiao Albert
Published: December 2012

What is the cellular origin of melanoma? What role do melanocyte stem cells (MSC) and other melanocyte precursors play in the development of melanoma? Are MSCs and other latent melanocyte precursors more susceptible to solar radiation? These and many other questions can be very effectively addressed using the zebrafish model. Zebrafish have a robust regenerative capability, permitting the study of how MSCs are regulated and recruited at specific times and places to generate the pigment pattern following fin amputation or melanocyte ablation. They can be used to determine the effects of environmental radiation on the proliferation, survival, repair, and differentiation of MSCs. Our lab is using zebrafish to investigate how UVA- (320–400 nm) and UVB- (290–320 nm) induced damage to MSCs may contribute to the development of melanoma. A review is given of MSCs in zebrafish as well as experimental techniques and drugs for manipulating MSC populations. These techniques can be used to design experiments to help answer many questions regarding the role of MSCs or melanocyte precursors in the formation of melanoma stem cells and tumors following exposure to UVA/UVB radiation.
Effects of 12-WeekBacopa monnieriConsumption on Attention, Cognitive Processing, Working Memory, and Functions of Both Cholinergic and Monoaminergic Systems in Healthy Elderly Volunteers
Authors: Peth-Nui Tatimah , Wattanathorn Jintanaporn , Muchimapura Supaporn , Tong-Un Terdthai , Piyavhatkul Nawanant , Rangseekajee Poonsri , Ingkaninan Kornkanok , Vittaya-areekul Sakchai
Published: December 2012

At present, the scientific evidence concerning the effect ofBacopa monnierion brain activity together with working memory is less available. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effect ofB. monnierion attention, cognitive processing, working memory, and cholinergic and monoaminergic functions in healthy elderly. A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled design was utilized. Sixty healthy elderly subjects (mean age 62.62 years; SD 6.46), consisting of 23 males and 37 females, received either a standardized extract ofB. monnieri(300 and 600 mg) or placebo once daily for 12 weeks. The cholinergic and monoaminergic systems functions were determined using AChE and MAO activities. Working memory was assessed using percent accuracy and reaction time of various memory tests as indices, whereas attention and cognitive processing were assessed using latencies and amplitude of N100 and P300 components of event-related potential. All assessments were performed before treatment, every four weeks throughout study period, and at four weeks after the cessation of intervention.B. monnieri-treated group showed improved working memory together with a decrease in both N100 and P300 latencies. The suppression of plasma AChE activity was also observed. These results suggest thatB. monnierican improve attention, cognitive processing, and working memory partly via the suppression of AChE activity.
Type‐2 Fuzzy Soft Sets and Their Applications in Decision Making
Authors: Zhang Zhiming , Zhang Shouhua
Published: December 2012

Molodtsov introduced the theory of soft sets, which can be used as a general mathematical tool for dealing with uncertainty. This paper aims to introduce the concept of the type‐2 fuzzy soft set by integrating the type‐2 fuzzy set theory and the soft set theory. Some operations on the type‐2 fuzzy soft sets are given. Furthermore, we investigate the decision making based on type‐2 fuzzy soft sets. By means of level soft sets, we propose an adjustable approach to type‐2 fuzzy‐soft‐set based decision making and give some illustrative examples. Moreover, we also introduce the weighted type‐2 fuzzy soft set and examine its application to decision making.
Global Robust Exponential Stability Analysis for Interval Neural Networks with Mixed Delays
Authors: Du Yanke , Xu Rui
Published: December 2012

A class of interval neural networks with time‐varying delays and distributed delays is investigated. By employing H‐matrix and M‐matrix theory, homeomorphism techniques, Lyapunov functional method, and linear matrix inequality approach, sufficient conditions for the existence, uniqueness, and global robust exponential stability of the equilibrium point to the neural networks are established and some previously published results are improved and generalized. Finally, some numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Bolstering the Evidence Base for Integrating Abortion and HIV Care: A Literature Review
Authors: Manski Ruth , Dennis Amanda , Blanchard Kelly , Lince Naomi , Grossman Dan
Published: December 2012

HIV-positive women have abortions at similar rates to their HIV-negative counterparts, yet little is known about clinical outcomes of abortion for HIV-positive women or the best practices for abortion provision. To fill that gap, we conducted a literature review of clinical outcomes of surgical and medication abortion among HIV-positive women. We identified three studies on clinical outcomes of surgical abortion among HIV-positive women; none showed significant differences in infectious complications by HIV status. A review of seven articles on similar gynecological procedures found no differences in complications by HIV status. No studies evaluated medication abortion among HIV-positive women. However, we did find that previously expressed concerns regarding blood loss and vomiting related to medication abortion for HIV-positive women are unwarranted based on our review of data showing that significant blood loss and vomiting are rare and short lived among women. We conclude that although there is limited research that addresses clinical outcomes of abortion for HIV-positive women, existing data suggest that medication and surgical abortion are safe and appropriate. Sexual and reproductive health and HIV integration efforts must include both options to prevent maternal mortality and morbidity and to ensure that HIV-positive women and women at risk of HIV can make informed reproductive decisions.
Global Bifurcation in 2m‐Order Generic Systems of Nonlinear Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Han Xiaoling , Xu Jia , Dai Guowei
Published: December 2012

We consider the systems of (−1) mu(2m) = λu + λv + uf(t, u, v), t ∈ (0,1), u(2i)(0) = u(2i)(1) = 0, and 0 ≤ i ≤ m − 1, (−1) mv(2m) = μu + μv + vg(t, u, v), t ∈ (0,1), v(2i)(0) = v(2i)(1) = 0, 0 ≤ i ≤ m − 1, where λ, μ ∈ R are real parameters. f, g : [0,1] × R2 → R are Ck, k ≥ 3 functions and f(t, 0,0) = g(t, 0,0) = 0, t ∈ [0,1]. It will be shown that if the functions, f and g are “generic” then the solution set of the systems consists of a countable collection of 2‐dimensional, Ck manifolds.
Dental Caries Prevalence and Tooth Loss in Chilean Adult Population: First National Dental Examination Survey
Authors: Urzua I. , Mendoza C. , Arteaga O. , Rodríguez G. , Cabello R. , Faleiros S. , Carvajal P. , Muñoz A. , Espinoza I. , Aranda W. , Gamonal J.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental caries, tooth loss, and risk factors among adult population of Chile. Furthermore, age, gender, and behavioural specific differences in caries prevalence and tooth loss were examined. A national stratified multistage probabilistic sample design in two-age cohorts was applied to the Chilean population. A sample of 1553 adults, comprising 1088 individuals aged 35–44 and 465 senior individuals aged 65–74, were examined. The DMFT was evaluated following WHO recommendations using diagnostic criteria of caries lesions into dentin. The data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate models using logistic regression analyses. Results showed a mean DMFT of 15.06 in the 35–44-year-old group and of 21.57 in the 65–74 group. Factors related to tooth loss in the 35–44 group through univariate logistic regression were depression (OR 1.9 CI 95% 1.26–2.85), education level <12 years (OR 2.24 CI 95% 1.31–3.73), personal income (OR 1.51 CI 95% 1.04–2.19), and familiar income (OR 2.05 CI 95% 1.34–3.13), and through multivariate logistic regression in the same age group were depression (OR 1.93 CI 95% 1.24–3.0), education level <12 years (OR 1.94 CI 95% 1.2–3.14), and familiar income (OR 1.71 CI 95% 1.09–2.68). Factors related to tooth loss in the 65–74-year-old group through univariate logistic regression were education level <12 years (OR 2.54 CI 95% 1.3–4.96) and personal income (OR 1.66 CI 95% 1.05–2.63), and for multivariate logistic regression in the same age group, it was education level <12 years (OR 2.51 CI 95% 1.21–5.18). In conclusion, adult population in Chile showed a high prevalence of dental caries and tooth loss, as age, education level, personal and familiar incomes, and depression are being the main risk factors.
Pilot Study for OCT Guided Design and Fit of a Prosthetic Device for Treatment of Corneal Disease
Authors: Le Hong-Gam T. , Tang Maolong , Ridges Ryan , Huang David , Jacobs Deborah S.
Published: December 2012

Purpose. To assess optical coherence tomography (OCT) for guiding design and fit of a prosthetic device for corneal disease.Methods. A prototype time domain OCT scanner was used to image the anterior segment of patients fitted with large diameter (18.5–20 mm) prosthetic devices for corneal disease. OCT images were processed and analyzed to characterize corneal diameter, corneal sagittal height, scleral sagittal height, scleral toricity, and alignment of device. Within-subject variance of OCT-measured parameters was evaluated. OCT-measured parameters were compared with device parameters for each eye fitted. OCT image correspondence with ocular alignment and clinical fit was assessed.Results. Six eyes in 5 patients were studied. OCT measurement of corneal diameter (coefficient of variation, %), cornea sagittal height (%), and scleral sagittal height (%) is highly repeatable within each subject. OCT image-derived measurements reveal strong correlation between corneal sagittal height and device corneal height () and modest correlation between scleral and on-eye device toricity (). Qualitative assessment of a fitted device on OCT montages reveals correspondence with slit lamp images and clinical assessment of fit.Conclusions. OCT imaging of the anterior segment is suitable for custom design and fit of large diameter (18.5–20 mm) prosthetic devices used in the treatment of corneal disease.
Antimigratory Effects of the Methanol Extract fromMomordica charantiaon Human Lung Adenocarcinoma CL1 Cells
Authors: Hsu Hsue-Yin , Lin Jung-Hsuan , Li Chia-Jung , Tsang Shih-Fang , Tsai Chun-Hao , Chyuan Jong-Ho , Chiu Shu-Jun , Chuang Shuang-En
Published: December 2012

Momordica charantiahas been found to exhibit anticancer activity, in addition to its well-known therapeutic functions. We have demonstrated that the leaf extract ofMomordica charantia(MCME) induces apoptosis in several human cancer cells through caspase- and mitochondria-dependent pathways. In this study, a different susceptibility to MCME was found in human lung adenocarcinoma CL1 cells with different metastatic ability, leading to the significant difference of cell viability and invasiveness between MCME-treated CL1-0 and CL1-5 cells. MCME was found to upregulate the expression of Wnt-2 and affect the migratory and invasive ability of CL1 cells through suppressed MMP-2 and MMP-9 enzymatic activities. We proposed that MCME mediates inhibition against migration of CL1 cells by reducing the expression and activation of Src and FAK to decrease the expression of downstream Akt,β-catenin, and MMPs.
Solar Field Mapping and Dynamo Behavior
Authors: Schatten Kenneth H.
Published: December 2012

We discuss the importance of the Sun’s large-scale magnetic field to the Sun-Planetary environment. This paper narrows its focus down to the motion and evolution of the photospheric large-scale magnetic field which affects many environments throughout this region. For this purpose we utilize a newly developed Netlogo cellular automata model. The domain of this algorithmic model is the Sun’s photosphere. Within this computational space are placed two types of entities or agents; one may refer to them as bluebirds and cardinals; the former carries outward magnetic flux and the latter carries out inward magnetic flux. One may simply call them blue and red agents. The agents provide a granularity with discrete changes not present in smooth MHD models; they undergo three processes: birth, motion, and death within the photospheric domain. We discuss these processes, as well as how we are able to develop a model that restricts its domain to the photosphere and allows the deeper layers to be considered only through boundary conditions. We show the model’s ability to mimic a number of photospheric magnetic phenomena: the solar cycle (11-year) oscillations, the Waldmeier effect, unipolar magnetic regions (e.g. sectors and coronal holes), Maunder minima, and the march/rush to the poles involving the geometry of magnetic field reversals. We also discuss why the Sun sometimes appears as a magnetic monopole, which of course requires no alteration of Maxwell’s equations.
Treatment of a Vertical Root Fracture Using Dual-Curing Resin Cement: A Case Report
Authors: Moradi Majd Nima , Akhtari Farshid , Araghi Solmaz , Homayouni Hamed
Published: December 2012

Introduction. Vertical root fracture (VRF) is one of the most frustrating complications of root canal treatment. The prognosis of the root with VRF is poor therefore tooth extraction and root amputation are usually the only treatment options. However, bonding of the fracture line with adhesive resin cement during the intentional replantation procedure was recently suggested as an alternative to tooth extraction.Methods. A vertically fractured left maxillary incisor was carefully extracted, fracture line was treated with adhesive resin cement, a retrograde cavity was produced and filled with calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement, and tooth was replanted.Results. After 12 months the tooth was asymptomatic. The size of periapical radiolucency was noticeably reduced and there was no clinical sign of ankylosis.Conclusion. Using adhesive resin cement to bond the fracture lines extraorally in roots with VRF and intentional replantation of the reconstructed teeth could be considered as an alternative to tooth extraction, especially for anterior teeth.
Application of a Proapoptotic Peptide to Intratumorally Spreading Cancer Therapy
Authors: Chen Renwei , Braun Gary B. , Luo Xiuquan , Sugahara Kazuki N. , Teesalu Tambet , Ruoslahti Erkki
Published: December 2012

Bit1 is a proapoptotic mitochondrial protein associated with anoikis. Upon cell detachment, Bit1 is released into the cytoplasm and triggers caspase-independent cell death. Bit1 consists of 179 amino acids; for the C-terminal, two thirds of the molecule functions as a peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase, whereas the N-terminus contains a mitochondrial localization signal. Here, we localize the cell death domain (CDD) to the N-terminal 62 amino acids of Bit1 by transfecting cells with truncated Bit1 cDNA constructs. CDD was more potent in killing cells than the full-length Bit1 protein when equivalent amounts of cDNA were transfected. To develop Bit1 CDD into a cancer therapeutic, we engineered a recombinant protein consisting of the CDD fused to iRGD, which is a tumor-specific peptide with unique tumor-penetrating and cell-internalizing properties. iRGD-CDD internalized into cultured tumor cells through a neuropilin-1–activated pathway and triggered cell death. Importantly, iRGD-CDD spread extensively within the tumor when injected intratumorally into orthotopically implanted breast tumors in mice. Repeated treatment with iRGD-CDD strongly inhibited tumor growth, resulting in an average reduction of 77% in tumor volume and eradication of some tumors. The caspase independence of Bit1-induced cell death makes CDD a potentially attractive anticancer agent, because tumor resistance to the main mechanisms of apoptosis is circumvented. Using iRGD to facilitate the spreading of a therapeutic agent throughout the tumor mass may be a useful adjunct to local therapy for tumors that are surgically inoperable or difficult to treat systemically. Cancer Res; 73(4); 1352–61. ©2012 AACR.
High Vitreous Concentration of IL-6 and IL-8, but Not of Adhesion Molecules in Relation to Plasma Concentrations in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Koskela U.E. , Kuusisto S.M. , Nissinen A.E. , Savolainen M.J. , Liinamaa M.J.
Published: December 2012

Background/Aim: Inflammatory markers have been observed in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). We assessed vitreous concentrations of adhesion molecules and cytokines in PDR and non-diabetic controls and plasma concentrations to differentiate local inflammation from the breakdown of the blood-retina barrier. Methods: 38 patients with PDR and 16 controls with macular hole or epiretinal membrane underwent vitrectomy. Vitreous and plasma soluble adhesion molecules [sE-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1 and -3, platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule (sPECAM)-1, sP-selectin, vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM)-1] and cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), tumour necrosis factor-α and -β, γ-interferon] were detected by the multiplex assay. Results: Levels of IL-6 and IL-8 were 26-fold (p = 0.001) and 6-fold higher (p = 0.001) in vitreous than in plasma in PDR. Vitreous IL-10 (p = 0.004), sPECAM-1, sE-selectin, sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 were higher in PDR than controls (p = 0.001 for all). Adhesion molecule concentrations in vitreous in PDR were less than 10% of those in plasma. IL-10 was lower in vitreous than plasma (3.0 vs. 12.8 pg/ml, p = 0.007), and the vitreous IL-10/IL-8 ratio was significantly lower in PDR than in controls (0.10 vs. 0.55 pg/ml, p = 0.003). Conclusion: The elevated IL-6 and IL-8 levels in vitreous, but not in plasma, are evidence favouring local over systemic inflammation in PDR. Furthermore, there was imbalance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the vitreous.
Electrocardiographic PR Interval and Adverse Outcomes in Older Adults
Authors: Magnani Jared W. , Wang Na , Nelson Kerrie P. , Connelly Stephanie , Deo Rajat , Rodondi Nicolas , Schelbert Erik B. , Garcia Melissa E. , Phillips Caroline L. , Shlipak Michael G. , Harris Tamara B. , Ellinor Patrick T. , Benjamin Emelia J. ,   for the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study
Published: December 2012

Background—

The electrocardiographic PR interval increases with aging, differs by race, and is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF), pacemaker implantation, and all-cause mortality. We sought to determine the associations between PR interval and heart failure, AF, and mortality in a biracial cohort of older adults.

Methods and Results—

The Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study is a prospective, biracial cohort. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to examine PR interval (hazard ratios expressed per SD increase) and 10-year risks of heart failure, AF, and all-cause mortality. Multivariable models included demographic, anthropometric, and clinical variables in addition to established cardiovascular risk factors. We examined 2722 Health ABC participants (aged 74±3 years, 51.9% women, and 41% black). We did not identify significant effect modification by race for the outcomes studied. After multivariable adjustment, every SD increase (29 ms) in PR interval was associated with a 13% greater 10-year risk of heart failure (95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.25) and a 13% increased risk of incident AF (95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.23). PR interval >200 ms was associated with a 46% increased risk of incident heart failure (95% confidence interval, 1.11–1.93). PR interval was not associated with increased all-cause mortality.

Conclusions—

We identified significant relationships of PR interval to heart failure and AF in older adults. Our findings extend prior investigations by examining PR interval and associations with adverse outcomes in a biracial cohort of older men and women.
Association of Genome-Wide Variation With Highly Sensitive Cardiac Troponin-T Levels in European Americans and Blacks
Authors: Yu Bing , Barbalic Maja , Brautbar Ariel , Nambi Vijay , Hoogeveen Ron C. , Tang Weihong , Mosley Thomas H. , Rotter Jerome I. , deFilippi Christopher R. , O’Donnell Christopher J. , Kathiresan Sekar , Rice Ken , Heckbert Susan R. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Psaty Bruce M. , Boerwinkle Eric
Published: December 2012

Background—

High levels of cardiac troponin T, measured by a highly sensitive assay (hs-cTnT), are strongly associated with incident coronary heart disease and heart failure. To date, no large-scale genome-wide association study of hs-cTnT has been reported. We sought to identify novel genetic variants that are associated with hs-cTnT levels.

Methods and Results—

We performed a genome-wide association in 9491 European Americans and 2053 blacks free of coronary heart disease and heart failure from 2 prospective cohorts: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study and the Cardiovascular Health Study. Genome-wide association studies were conducted in each study and race stratum. Fixed-effect meta-analyses combined the results of linear regression from 2 cohorts within each race stratum and then across race strata to produce overall estimates and probability values. The meta-analysis identified a significant association at chromosome 8q13 (rs10091374;
P
=9.06×10
−9
) near the nuclear receptor coactivator 2 (
NCOA2
) gene. Overexpression of
NCOA2
can be detected in myoblasts. An additional analysis using logistic regression and the clinically motivated 99th percentile cut point detected a significant association at 1q32 (rs12564445;
P
=4.73×10
−8
) in the gene
TNNT2
, which encodes the cardiac troponin T protein itself. The hs-cTnT-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms were not associated with coronary heart disease in a large case-control study, but rs12564445 was significantly associated with incident heart failure in Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study European Americans (hazard ratio=1.16;
P
=0.004).

Conclusions—

We identified 2 loci, near
NCOA2
and in the
TNNT2
gene, at which variation was significantly associated with hs-cTnT levels. Further use of the new assay should enable replication of these results.
Effect of Valsartan on Systemic Right Ventricular Function
Authors: van der Bom Teun , Winter Michiel M. , Bouma Berto J. , Groenink Maarten , Vliegen Hubert W. , Pieper Petronella G. , van Dijk Arie P.J. , Sieswerda Gertjan T. , Roos-Hesselink Jolien W. , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , Mulder Barbara J.M.
Published: December 2012

Background—

The role of angiotensin II receptor blockers in patients with a systemic right ventricle has not been elucidated.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a multicenter, double-blind, parallel, randomized controlled trial of angiotensin II receptor blocker valsartan 160 mg twice daily compared with placebo in patients with a systemic right ventricle caused by congenitally or surgically corrected transposition of the great arteries. The primary end point was change in right ventricular ejection fraction during 3-year follow-up, determined by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging or, in patients with contraindication for magnetic resonance imaging, multirow detector computed tomography. Secondary end points were change in right ventricular volumes and mass,

peak, and quality of life. Primary analyses were performed on an intention-to-treat basis. A total of 88 patients (valsartan, n=44; placebo, n=44) were enrolled in the trial. No serious adverse effects occurred in either group. There was no significant effect of 3-year valsartan therapy on systemic right ventricular ejection fraction (treatment effect, 1.3%; 95% confidence interval, −1.3% to 3.9%;
P
=0.34), maximum exercise capacity, or quality of life. There was a larger increase in right ventricular end-diastolic volume (15 mL; 95% confidence interval, 3–28 mL;
P
<0.01) and mass (8 g; 95% confidence interval, 2–14 g;
P
=0.01) in the placebo group than in the valsartan group.

Conclusions—

There was no significant treatment effect of valsartan on right ventricular ejection fraction, exercise capacity, or quality of life. Valsartan was associated with a similar frequency of significant clinical events as placebo. Small but significant differences between valsartan and placebo were present for change in right ventricular volumes and mass.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN52352170.
The External Dimension of European Union Marine Governance: Institutional Interplay between the EU and the International Maritime Organization
Authors: van Leeuwen Judith , Kern Kristine
Published: December 2012

This article focuses on the emergence of a decentralized institutional complex, interplay management, and the institutional interplay between the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the EU in the issue area of environmental shipping policies. It shows that the synergistic relationship between both institutions has been driven primarily by commitment and compliance mechanisms. By influencing IMO decision-making and improving the implementation and effectiveness of IMO conventions, the EU has become a driving force in international environmental shipping policies, and its new initiatives may even enhance its leadership role within the IMO in the future. Despite the still-existing lack of cognitive leadership by the EU, the synergies between both institutions provide evidence for the EU's leadership capacities in global environmental politics.
Islamic Religious Coping, Perceived Stress, and Mental Well-being in Pakistanis
Authors: Khan Ziasma Haneef , Watson P.J. , Chen Zhuo
Published: December 2012

Research suggests that religious beliefs may both help and hinder how Muslims cope. In a Pakistani sample, the Positive Islamic Coping, Islamic Identity, and Extra-Prayer Commitment factors from the Psychological Measure of Islamic Religiousness correlated negatively with Perceived Stress and positively with Mental Well-Being, Intrinsic Religious Orientation, and Extrinsic Personal Religious Orientation. Islamic Identity also partially mediated the negative relationship of Perceived Stress with Mental Well-Being. A Punishing Allah Reappraisal factor failed to display any evidence that it operationalized a maladaptive form of Muslim coping. These data most importantly confirmed the positive coping potentials of Muslim commitments, with Islamic Identity being especially noteworthy.
It's a Miracle: Separating the Miraculous from the Mundane
Authors: Ransom Michael R. , Alicke Mark D.
Published: December 2012

What aspects and features of events impel people to label them as miraculous? Three studies examined people's miracle conceptions and the factors that lead them to designate an event as a miracle. Study 1 identified the basic elements of laypersons’ miracle beliefs by instructing participants to define a miracle, to list five events that they considered miraculous, and to state what they believed to be the purpose of miracles. Results showed that individuals tend to view miracles as highly improbable and beneficial occurrences that instill hope and faith in people. Studies 2 and 3 investigated people's intuitive miracle theories. Findings demonstrated that people tend to label events as miracles when the events in question were of high magnitude, were obtained in an unusual manner, resulted in a beneficial health outcome, personally affected the participant, involved a person of worthy character, and depicted a low-probability event.
How Religion Promotes Forgiveness: The Case of Turkish Muslims
Authors: Ayten Ali
Published: December 2012

Due to developments in positive psychology, the theme of forgiveness has increasingly been observed in psychological studies in recent years. Forgiveness has now become one of positive psychology's favourite topics. It is conceived as an element of religiosity and hence studies focus on the relation between forgiveness and religiosity. This study is carried out to determine the relation between the propensity to forgive and socio-demographic variables (gender and age) and religiosity in the case of the Turkish-Muslim sample. Furthermore, this article aims to describe the relation between forgiveness, humility and pride. In order to investigate these relations, the Interpersonal Forgiveness Scale and Brief Islamic Religiosity Measure have been developed and applied to a sample of 321 people from different parts of Istanbul, Turkey. The findings show that religiosity is positively related to the propensity to forgive and negatively related to feelings of revenge. Furthermore, forgiveness is correlated positively with humility and negatively with pride.
The Problem of Appropriate Psychology of Religion Measures for Non-Western Christian Samples with Respect to the Turkish-Islamic Religious Landscape
Authors: Agilkaya Zuhal
Published: December 2012

Despite the fact that Islam is the second largest religion in the world, empirical studies on Muslim religiosity have been very rare. The reason for this is seen in the lack of measurements applicable to Muslim samples. Nonetheless, the few empirical studies about Muslims, the role of Islam in terms of physical and psychological well-being, and comparative studies give rise to hope. The problems of application, adaptation and translation of religiosity and spirituality scales developed for Christian traditions is an issue that the psychology of religion in Turkey is facing but has not yet solved. This article shall provide an overview of the religious landscape in Turkey that has to be considered when applying Turkish or Western measures of religiosity to Turkish samples. Further problems in cross-cultural/religious studies due to inappropriate measures are illustrated. Finally religiosity scales developed and/or applied within the psychology of religion research in Turkey are listed.
Religious Orientation and Its Relation to Locus of Control and Depression
Authors: Cirhinlioğlu Fatma Gül , Özdikmenli-Demir Gözde
Published: December 2012

This study examines the relationships among intrinsic and extrinsic religious orientations, locus of control and depression levels of 430 Turkish Muslim university students. The results show that some locus of control dimensions are related to participants’ religious orientations, but depression has no significant impact on intrinsic or extrinsic religiousness. Hierarchical Regression Analyses were conducted for predicting the intrinsic and extrinsic religious orientations of different gender. Belief in chance (negatively) and belief in fate (positively) contribute to male and female participants’ intrinsic religious orientations. Meaninglessness of effortfulness was crucial only for women's intrinsic religiosity. Higher belief in meaninglessness of effortfulness was related to lower intrinsic religiosity scores for women. Among the locus of control variables, only belief in fate (positively) contributed to extrinsic religious orientations in both men and women. Belief in an unjust world positively contributed only to male extrinsic religious orientations. Women had higher intrinsic religiosity scores.
Forgiveness by God and Human Forgivingness: The Centrality of the Religiosity Makes the Difference
Authors: Huber S. , Allemand M. , Huber O. W.
Published: December 2012

The present study tested the hypothesis that centrality of religiosity as defined as the position of an individual's religious construct system in personality moderates the relationship between the experience of forgiveness by God and forgivingness for others. Participants ( N = 459) completed measures of forgiveness by God, forgivingness, and centrality of religiosity. The moderating hypothesis was tested by treating centrality of religiosity both as a continuous variable and as a categorical variable with reference to a typological distinction. Results indicate that centrality of religiosity moderates the positive relationship between forgiveness by God and forgivingness for others, implying that this relation only occurs if the religious construct system is in a central position in personality, but not if it is in a subordinate position. These results underline the importance of considering centrality of religiosity as an individual difference variable.
Socio-demographic and Five Factor Model Variables as Predictors of Religious Fundamentalism: An Italian Study
Authors: Carlucci Leonardo , Tommasi Marco , Saggino Aristide
Published: December 2012

In the present article, we investigated the relation between socio-demographic variables and personality factors with religious fundamentalism (RF). Our data were collected from a sample of 125 Italian Catholic participants (40 males, 85 females). Correlation analyses showed a significant association between RF and the openness domain of personality (negative pole), including both facet scales (openness to experiences and openness to cultures). We also found a significant association between RF and conscientiousness (only including the scrupulousness facet). Regarding socio-demographic variables, we found significant correlations between RF and years of education, church attendance, belief, and age, while there was no significant correlation between RF and gender. Path analysis showed that the effects on RF of socio-demographic factors are stronger than those of personality factors.
Religious Fundamentalism: An Empirically Derived Construct and Measurement Scale
Authors: Liht Josέ , Conway Lucian Gideon , Savage Sara , White Weston , O'Neill Katherine A.
Published: December 2012

Items were generated to explore the factorial structure of a construct of fundamentalism worded appropriately for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Results suggested three underlying dimensions: (a) External versus Internal Authority, (b) Fixed versus Malleable Religion, and (c) Worldly Rejection versus Worldly Affirmation. The three dimensions indicate that religious fundamentalism is a personal orientation that asserts a supra-human locus of moral authority, context unbound truth, and the appreciation of the sacred over the worldly components of experience. The 15-item, 3-dimension solution was evaluated across Mexican ( n = 455) and American ( n = 449) samples. Fit indexes point out the viability of the new inventory across these two samples henceforward referred to as the Multi-Dimensional Fundamentalism Inventory (MDFI). Additional validity tests supported that the new inventory was negatively correlated with participants’ integrative complexity in a religious domain–specific way.
Existential Experiences and Strategies in Relation to Induced Abortion: An Interview Study with 24 Swedish Women
Authors: Stålhandske Maria Liljas , Ekstrand Maria , Tydέn Tanja
Published: December 2012

Induced abortion is as common in religious as secular cultures, but interpretations and ways to handle abortion differ. This study focuses on existential aspects of abortion, in relation to a secularized context, through in-depth interviews with 24 Swedish women. Existential questions belonging to four areas were found: Life and Death, Meaning of Life, Morality, and Self-Image. Furthermore, four different existential strategies were found: (1) Detaching Strategies (creating distance to the pregnancy), (2) Meaning-Making Strategies (relating the abortion to one's worldview), (3) Social Strategies (sharing the abortion with others), and (4) Symbolic Strategies (expressing the experience in bodily ways). Existential questions and strategies did not imply that the woman regretted her abortion. However, while some women easily processed existential questions, others seemed to be more at a loss. In a secularized country, where many people are unaccustomed to dealing with existential issues, greater existential competence among abortion personnel might thus be needed.
Critical Responses to Faith Development Theory: A Useful Agenda for Change?
Authors: Coyle Adrian
Published: December 2012

Since it was first presented, James Fowler's faith development theory has proven influential in pastoral care and counselling, pastoral and practical theology, spiritual direction, and Christian education. However, it has also been subject to substantial critical evaluation. This article reviews the major themes within psychological critiques and considers the agenda provided by these critiques for the theory's future development. Critical themes concern Fowler's understanding of “faith”; the theory's structural “logic of development”; its overemphasis on cognition and lack of attention to (emotional/psychodynamic dimensions as) processes of transition and transformation; its gender bias and cultural specificity; and its purported difficulty in accommodating postmodern trends in psychology. To address these critiques in a meaningful way, there is a need to embrace alternative existing theories of faith development and spiritual/religious change, to construct a radically revised, process-focused version of faith development theory, and to continue to develop new localized process models of faith development.
Six Understandings of the Word ‘Spirituality’ in a Secular Country
Authors: la Cour Peter , Ausker Nadja Hørdam , Hvidt Niels Christian
Published: December 2012

Spirituality is a growing research theme, especially in relation to health issues. The term is often poorly defined and one's understanding is often so broad that it becomes a mere frame word devoid of meaning. In this study, we asked 514 adult Danes about their understanding of the word ‘spirituality’. Factor analysis of the answers resulted in six different understandings of spirituality: (1) positive dimensions in human life and well-being; (2) New Age ideology; (3) an integrated part of established religious life; (4) a vague striving, opposed to religion; (5) selfishness; and (6) ordinary inspiration in human activities. It is concluded that a common understanding of the term spirituality does not exist, at least in a modern secular setting. Suggestion for future research is that the term spirituality is not used without an indication, notions or keywords of what is meant by the term in a specific context.
Mothers’ Perceptions of Family Health History and an Online, Parent-Generated Family Health History Tool
Authors: Berger Kelly Amanda , Lynch John , Prows Cynthia A. , Siegel Robert M. , Myers Melanie F.
Published: December 2012

Family health history (FHH) can identify families at increased risk for disease. Purpose. To learn mothers’ (1) perceptions of the benefits of FHH and (2) willingness to complete a FHH tool, My Family Health Portrait (MFHP). Methods. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with mothers recruited through Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Deductive and inductive codes were developed. Results. A total of 25 mothers were interviewed. Perceived benefits included keeping the pediatrician informed (n = 12; 48%) and preventive screenings recommended based on FHH (n = 10; 40%). Participants had positive impressions of MFHP and felt that it was user-friendly (n = 17; 68%). Lack of FHH knowledge was the most common challenge to completing MFHP, but most respondents stated that they would be able to complete MFHP prior to their child’s medical appointment (n = 23; 92%). Conclusion. Mothers are interested in and may be motivated to complete a parent-generated FHH prior to a pediatric appointment. Future research should focus on FHH implementation in practice.
Resistance in Unjust Times: Archer, Structured Agency and the Sociology of Health Inequalities
Authors: Scambler Graham
Published: December 2012

Few sociologists dissent from the notion that the mid- to late 1970s witnessed a shift in capitalism’s modus operandi. Its association with a rapid increase of social and material inequality is beyond dispute. This article opens with a brief summation of contemporary British trends in economic inequalities, and finds an echo of these trends in health inequalities. It is suggested that the sociology of health inequalities in Britain lacks an analysis of agency, and that such an analysis is crucial. A case is made that the recent critical realist contribution of Margaret Archer on ‘internal conversations’ lends itself to an understanding of agency that is salient here. The article develops her typology of internal conversations to present characterizations of the ‘focused autonomous reflexives’ whose mind-sets are causally efficacious for producing and reproducing inequalities, and the ‘dedicated meta-reflexives’ whose casts of mind might yet predispose them to mobilize resistance to inequalities.
Economies of Scale and Local Government Expenditure
Authors: Drew Joseph , Kortt Michael A. , Dollery Brian
Published: December 2012

Controversy surrounds structural reform in local government, especially efforts aimed at involuntarily reducing the number of local authorities to secure scale economies. We examined whether scale economies exist in local government outlays by analyzing the expenditure of 152 New South Wales councils. Initially, council expenditure is characterized by scale economies. However, given the correlation between population and population density, it is important to determine whether the influence of population on expenditure is due to variations in population density. When areas are decomposed into subgroups on the basis of density, the evidence of scale economies largely disappears.
University Engagement with Professional Clients in the Provision of Executive Development
Authors: Copus Colin , Altherr Kerstin
Published: December 2012

The paper is presented as a think-piece. It is designed to stimulate discussion and consideration of the pressures and tensions experienced by universities entering the market for the provision of programmes to external public sector clients. The paper draws on the experiences of universities in England and Germany in providing executive development programmes to a range of public sector clients. It looks at the questions raised for academics and universities exploring this market and the benefits for research and impact that could be achieved.
Where Has All the Public Administration Gone?
Authors: Jones Alistair
Published: December 2012

For many years, concern has been raised about the demise of the teaching of public administration. No longer is the subject taught in its own right as an undergraduate subject in the UK. The emphasis has moved from administration to management. The malaise in the teaching of public administration is such that the subject has almost disappeared. It is time to re-visit the importance of public administration as a taught academic subject, and its importance in many other academic disciplines.
Thinking about the state, talking bureaucracy, teaching public administration
Authors: Barberis Peter
Published: December 2012

By examining issues concerning the role and nature of the state together with the character of public bureaucracy, this article shows that, as a practical activity, public administration retains a distinct identity. Notwithstanding the many changes that have taken place in the public sector during recent years, programmes of study in the subject still have much to offer. Such programmes should reassert their place within the social sciences. Their virtues should be proclaimed with confidence, while resisting misplaced calls for more narrowly focused vocationalism.