bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minor Psychiatric Disorders and Syncope: The Role of Psychopathology in the Expression of Vasovagal Reflex
Authors: Leftheriotis Dionyssios , Michopoulos Ioannis , Flevari Panayota , Douzenis Athanassios , Koborozos Christoforos , Kostopoulou Anna , Theodorakis George N. , Lykouras Lefteris , Kremastinos Dimitrios T.
Published: August 2008

Background: A high prevalence of minor psychiatric disorders (MPDs) has been reported in patients with vasovagal syncope (VVS). However, the relationship between the psychiatric substrate and syncope remains unclear. Methods: In order to test the hypothesis that MPDs may predispose to VVS, we assessed the prevalence of syncope, the response to head-up tilt test (HUTT) and the efficacy of psychiatric drug treatment in reducing syncopal episodes, in patients with recently diagnosed MPDs. The response to HUTT was compared with that in an equal number of matched (a) patients with VVS and (b) healthy controls. Results: A high rate of patients with MPDs (58%) had a positive HUTT. Additionally, 45% had a history of syncope; among them, the rate of positive HUTT was identical to that in the VVS group (83%). Following psychiatric drug treatment, the number of patients with syncope decreased in the MPD group (6/67 from 30/67, p < 0.01). Psychiatric symptoms and quality of life were also improved. The number of syncopal spells decreased equally in the MPD and VVS groups (0.6 ± 0.5 from 2.5 ± 1.4, p < 0.01, and 0.7 ± 0.5 from 2.7 ± 1.3, p < 0.01, respectively). Conclusion: A high proportion of patients with MPDs experience syncope, associated with a high rate of positive HUTT, comparable to that observed in VVS. Psychiatric treatment results in the improvement of syncopal and psychiatric symptoms. These findings suggest involvement of co-occurring MPDs in the pathogenesis of VVS. Therefore, the diagnosis and treatment of MPDs, when present, may be crucial for the effective therapy of vasovagal syndrome.
Association between Anxiety and Factors of Coagulation and Fibrinolysis
Authors: Geiser Franziska , Meier Christian , Wegener Ingo , Imbierowicz Katrin , Conrad Rupert , Liedtke Reinhard , Oldenburg Johannes , Harbrecht Ursula
Published: August 2008

Background: Psychological stress and anxiety have been shown to produce an activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis. Resulting hypercoagulability is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and could therefore contribute to an increased prevalence of coronary artery disease in anxiety patients. However, hemostasis function has not yet been studied in patients with clinically relevant anxiety disorders. Methods: A group of anxiety patients (panic disorder with agoraphobia or social phobia) and a healthy control group (each n = 29) completed some questionnaires [SCL-K9 (a short form of the SCL-90-R), State Trait Anxiety Inventory, ADS (general depression scale)], and had blood drawn after a 15-min rest period. To assess the reaction of the hemostatic system by global entities, sum scores were computed from parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis (fibrinogen, FVII, FVIII, vWF, F1 + 2, TAT, D-dimer, α2-AP, PAP, tPA, PAI-1). Interfering variables, such as age, gender, alcohol consumption and smoking status, were controlled. Results: Anxiety patients scored higher in a composite hemostatic score and a sum score of fibrinolysis in comparison to the control group, with a predominant activation of inhibitors in fibrinolysis. However, the psychological variable with the closest association to hemostasis was not trait anxiety, but self-perceived worry about blood drawing before blood sampling was performed. Conclusions: The coagulation and fibrinolysis system is activated in the direction of a hypercoagulable state in patients with severe phobic anxiety, triggered by fear of blood drawing. This could be one mediating factor for the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in this population. Acute situational phobic anxiety should be monitored closely when studying the association between anxiety and hemostasis.
Thirteen-Month Registration of Patients with Gastroenteropancreatic Endocrine Tumours in France
Authors: Lombard-Bohas C. , Mitry E. , O’Toole D. , Louvet C. , Pillon D. , Cadiot G. , Borson-Chazot F. , Aparicio T. , Ducreux M. , Lecomte T. , Etienne P.L. , Cacheux W. , Legoux J.L. , Seitz J.F. , Ruszniewski P. , Chayvialle J.A. , Rougier P.
Published: August 2008

The prevalence, clinical profiles and management of gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumours (GEP) in France are not known. From August 1, 2001 to September 1, 2002, standardized records on patients with GEP were prospectively completed in 87 participating centres. The total group amounted to 668 patients (median age: 56 years, range: 12–89). WHO performance status was 0/1 for 80.2% of patients. The primary sites were the small bowel and colon (288), pancreas (211), unknown (77), stomach (33), non-digestive primary sites (24), appendix (20), rectum-anus (12), and oesophagus or cardia (3). GEP were functional in 260 patients (39%). Most pancreatic tumours were non-functional (72%). Metastatic disease was observed in 73.4% of cases. Most tumours (85.8%) were well or moderately differentiated. Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy was performed in only 55% of patients. The following treatment modalities were employed: resection of primary tumour: 66%; systemic chemotherapy: 41%; somatostatin analogues: 44 and 26% for GEP of small intestine and pancreas, respectively; interferon: 12%, and intra-arterial hepatic (chemo)embolization in 23 and 15% of GEP arising from the midgut and pancreas, respectively. Despite their low prevalence, well-differentiated GEP represent a significant and heterogeneous clinical group, which warrants improved medical education, referral to expert centres at an early stage, and the design of prospective therapeutic trials.
Combination Therapy of Oral Fluoropyrimidine Anticancer Drug S-1 and Interferon Alpha for HCC Patients with Extrahepatic Metastases
Authors: Uka Kiminori , Aikata Hiroshi , Mori Nami , Takaki Shintaro , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Azakami Takahiro , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Jeong Soo Cheol , Takahashi Shoichi , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: August 2008

Purpose: There is no standard treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with extrahepatic metastases. We assessed the efficiency and safety of the oral fluoropyrimidine anticancer drug S-1 combined with interferon alpha (IFN-α) for HCC patients with extrahepatic metastases. Methods: Twenty-nine HCC patients with extrahepatic metastases received S-1/IFN. One cycle of combination therapy represented 2 weeks followed by 2–4 weeks of rest. In each cycle, S-1 was administrated orally at 80–120 mg (depending on body surface area) every day and IFN-α intramuscularly at 5 million units thrice weekly. Results: The overall response of 29 patients was complete response (CR) in 4 (14%), partial response (PR) in 1, stable disease in 4, progressive disease in 12, and dropout in 8 patients. Objective response (CR + PR) was 17%. The time to progression and survival rate were significantly higher in patients with lung metastases (n = 19) than in those with painful bone metastases (n = 7; p = 0.0058 and 0.0015). With regard to NCI-CTC grade 3 adverse reactions, 3 (10%), 3 (10%) and 2 (7%) patients developed anorexia, leukopenia, and neutropenia, respectively. No grade 4 adverse reaction or toxicity-related death occurred. Conclusion: S-1/IFN is a potentially safe and suitable combination therapy for HCC patients with extrahepatic metastases, especially those with lung metastases.
Therapeutic Aspects of Hepatitis C in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Hosseini Moghaddam Seyed Mohammadmehdi , Alavian Seyed Moayed , Rahnavardi Mohammad
Published: August 2008

Background: Since hemodialysis (HD) patients usually suffer from multiple clinical problems and drug side effects, the treatment of hepatitis C in these patients still remains a challenging problem. Methods: We identified eligible studies using a wide-spectrum search up to May 2007 in MEDLINE (since 1966) and EMBASE (since 1980). Two researchers (S.M.H.M. and M.R.) independently reviewed the manuscripts identified by the search strategy. To determine the most current information, only studies that had been published after 1995 were included. Results: Interferon (IFN)-α has long been used for this purpose; however, more recently the advent of pegylated (PEG) IFN has proven to be more beneficial in these patients. Even though the usage of ribavirin is promising in the case of hepatitis C in otherwise healthy subjects, the utilization of this drug in patients with renal failure may be accompanied by catastrophic complications. Conclusion: Although both conventional IFN and PEG-IFN seem to be favorable options for the management of hepatitis C in HD patients, further studies on new therapeutic agents are required.
Elevated Cardiac Troponin T Predicts Cardiovascular Events in Asymptomatic Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Patients without a History of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Han Seung Hyeok , Choi Hoon Young , Kim Dong Ki , Moon Sung Jin , Lee Jung Eun , Yoo Tae Hyun , Kim Beom Seok , Kang Shin-Wook , Choi Kyu Hun , Lee Ho Yung , Han Dae-Suk
Published: August 2008

Background: Recent studies revealed that elevated cardiac troponin T (cTnT) could predict all-cause mortality and cardiovascular diseases in end-stage renal disease patients. This study aimed to evaluate cTnT as a prognostic value in asymptomatic continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients. Methods: This is a prospective observational study with 107 prevalent peritoneal dialysis patients. cTnT, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and IL-6 were measured at baseline. Based on cTnT level, patients were classified as higher cTnT group (HT, n = 21, cTnT ≥0.1 ng/ml) and lower cTnT group (LT, n = 86, cTnT <0.1 ng/ml), and were followed for 3 years. Primary endpoint was cardiovascular events. Results: The HT group had a significantly higher level of log hsCRP and log IL-6 than the LT group (p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival demonstrated worse cardiovascular event-free survival for the HT group. Multivariate analysis adjusted for age, cTnT, IL-6 and hsCRP level revealed that age (per 1-year increase, HR 1.07, p < 0.05), elevated cTnT (vs. <0.1 ng/ml, HR 5.89, p < 0.05) and hsCRP (vs. <3.0 mg/l, HR 4.15, p < 0.05) were identified as significant determinants of cardiovascular events. Conclusion: This study suggests that cTnT may be an aid in risk stratification of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients.
Severe Complications of Bronchoscopy
Authors: Jin Faguang , Mu Deguang , Chu Dongling , Fu Enqing , Xie Yonghong , Liu Tonggang
Published: August 2008

Background: Interventional bronchoscopy is widely used for the diagnosis and therapy of many lung and airway diseases. Concern has been raised about its complications. Objective: To review the severe complications associated with bronchoscopy. Methods: A retrospective review of clinical records of 23,862 patients who underwent bronchoscopic examination or therapy from December 1983 to December 2004 in our department. Severe complications associated with bronchoscopic examination or therapy were analyzed. Results: During the study period, among 23,862 cases, 152 cases experienced severe complications; 3 cases died; the rate of severe complications was 0.637%; mortality rate was 0.013%. The complications included laryngeal, tracheal and bronchial spasm in 68 cases, hematorrhea in 37 cases, arrhythmia in 19 cases, airway obstruction in 8 cases, esophagotracheal fistula in 5 cases, pneumothorax in 4 cases, tracheal perforation in 3 cases, death in 3 cases. Conclusions: Bronchoscopy is a safe procedure. The increased rate of severe complications and death associated with bronchoscopy may be ascribed to the increasingly wide use of bronchoscopy.
Tbx3 Is Required for Outflow Tract Development
Authors: Mesbah Karim , Harrelson Zachary , Théveniau-Ruissy Magali , Papaioannou Virginia E. , Kelly Robert G.
Published: August 2008

Conotruncal and ventricular septal congenital heart anomalies result from defects in formation and division of the embryonic outflow tract. Cardiac remodeling during outflow tract and ventricular septation converts the tubular embryonic heart into a parallel circulatory system with an independent left ventricular outlet and right ventricular inlet.
Tbx3
encodes a T-box–containing transcription factor expressed in the developing conduction system of the heart. Mutations in
TBX3
cause ulnar–mammary syndrome. Here we show that mice lacking
Tbx3
develop severe outflow tract defects, including connection of both the aorta and pulmonary trunk with the right ventricle, in addition to aortic arch artery anomalies and abnormal communication between the right atrium and left ventricle. Alignment defects are preceded by a delay in caudal displacement of the arterial pole of the heart during aortic arch artery formation. Embryonic anterior–posterior patterning and cardiac chamber development are unaffected in
Tbx3
mutant embryos. However, the contribution of second heart field derived progenitor cells to the arterial pole of the heart is impaired.
Tbx3
is expressed in pharyngeal epithelia and neural crest cells in the pharyngeal region, suggesting an indirect role in second heart field deployment. Loss of Tbx3 affects multiple signaling pathways regulating second heart field proliferation and outflow tract morphogenesis, including fibroblast growth factor signaling, leading to a failure of normal heart tube extension and consequent atrioventricular and ventriculoarterial alignment defects.
Cellular Signaling Underlying Atrial Tachycardia Remodeling of L-type Calcium Current
Authors: Qi Xiao Yan , Yeh Yung-Hsin , Xiao Ling , Burstein Brett , Maguy Ange , Chartier Denis , Villeneuve Louis R. , Brundel Bianca J.J.M. , Dobrev Dobromir , Nattel Stanley
Published: August 2008

Atrial tachycardia (AT) downregulates L-type Ca
2+
current (
I
CaL
) and causes atrial fibrillation–promoting electric remodeling. This study assessed potential underlying signal transduction. Cultured adult canine atrial cardiomyocytes were paced at 0, 1, or 3 Hz (P0, P1, P3) for up to 24 hours. Cellular tachypacing (P3) mimicked effects of in vivo AT: decreased
I
CaL
and transient outward current (
I
to
), unchanged
I
CaT
,
I
Kr
, and
I
Ks
, and reduced action potential duration (APD).
I
CaL
was unchanged in P3 at 2 and 8 hours but decreased by 55±6% at 24 hours. Tachypacing caused Ca
2+

i

accumulation in P3 cells at 2 to 8 hours, but, by 24 hours, Ca
2+
i
returned to baseline. Ca
v
1.2 mRNA expression was not altered at 2 hours but decreased significantly at 8 and 24 hours (32±4% and 48±4%, respectively) and protein expression was decreased (47±8%) at 24 hours only. Suppressing Ca
2+

i

increases during tachypacing with the
I
CaL
blocker nimodipine or the Ca
2+
chelator BAPTA-AM prevented
I
CaL
downregulation. Calcineurin activity increased in P3 at 2 and 8 hours, respectively, returning to baseline at 24 hours. Nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) nuclear translocation was enhanced in P3 cells. Ca
2+
-dependent signaling was probed with inhibitors of Ca
2+
/calmodulin (W-7), calcineurin (FK-506), and NFAT (INCA6): each prevented
I
CaL
downregulation. Significant APD reductions (≈30%) at 24 hours in P3 cells were prevented by nimodipine, BAPTA-AM, W-7, or FK-506. Thus, rapid atrial cardiomyocyte activation causes Ca
2+
loading, which activates the Ca
2+
-dependent calmodulin–calcineurin–NFAT system to cause transcriptional downregulation of
I
CaL
, restoring Ca
2+
i
to normal at the cost of APD reduction. These studies elucidate for the first time the molecular feedback mechanisms underlying arrhythmogenic AT remodeling.
Pbx/Meis Deficiencies Demonstrate Multigenetic Origins of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Stankunas Kryn , Shang Ching , Twu Karen Y. , Kao Shih-Chu , Jenkins Nancy A. , Copeland Neal G. , Sanyal Mrinmoy , Selleri Licia , Cleary Michael L. , Chang Ching-Pin
Published: August 2008

Congenital heart diseases are traditionally considered to be multifactorial in pathogenesis resulting from environmental and genetic interactions that determine penetrance and expressivity within a genetically predisposed family. Recent evidence suggests that genetic contributions have been significantly underestimated. However, single gene defects occur only in a minority of cases, and multigenetic causes of congenital heart diseases have not been fully demonstrated. Here, we show that interactions between alleles of 3
Pbx
genes, which encode homeodomain transcription factors, are sufficient to determine the phenotypic presentation of congenital heart diseases in mice. A major role is served by
Pbx1
, whose inactivation results in persistent truncus arteriosus. Reduction or absence of
Pbx2 or Pbx3
leads to
Pbx1
haploinsufficiency and specific malformations that resemble tetralogy of Fallot, overriding aorta with ventricular septal defect, and bicuspid aortic valves. Disruption of
Meis1
, which encodes a Pbx DNA-binding partner, results in cardiac anomalies that resemble those caused by
Pbx
mutations. Each of the observed cardiac defects represents developmental abnormalities affecting distinct stages of cardiac outflow tract development and corresponds to specific types of human congenital heart disease. Thus, varied deficiencies in the
Pbx
gene family produce a full spectrum of cardiac defects involving the outflow tract, providing a framework for determining multigenetic causes of congenital heart anomalies.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Semaphorin Induce Neuropilin-1 Endocytosis via Separate Pathways
Authors: Salikhova Anna , Wang Ling , Lanahan Anthony A. , Liu Miaoliang , Simons Michael , Leenders William P. J. , Mukhopadhyay Debabrata , Horowitz Arie
Published: August 2008

The neuropilin (Nrp)1 receptor is essential for both nervous and vascular system development. Nrp1 is unusually versatile, because it transmits both chemoattractive and repulsive signals in response to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A and class 3 semaphorins, respectively. Both Nrp1 and VEGF receptor 2 undergo ligand-dependent endocytosis. We sought to establish the endocytic pathway of Nrp1 and to determine whether uptake is required for its signaling. Whereas Nrp1 underwent clathrin-dependent endocytosis in response to VEGFA
165
treatment, semaphorin 3C (sema3C) induced lipid raft–dependent endocytosis. The myosin VI PDZ (postsynaptic density 95, Disk large, Zona occludens-1) adaptor protein synectin was essential for Nrp1 trafficking. Sema3C failed to inhibit migration of
synectin
−/−
endothelial cells, mirroring the lower migratory response of these cells to VEGFA
165
. These results show that the endocytic pathway of Nrp1 is determined by its ligand and that the trafficking of Nrp1 is essential for its signaling.
Quantitative Assessment of Core/Penumbra Mismatch in Acute Stroke
Authors: Schaefer Pamela W. , Barak Elizabeth R. , Kamalian Shahmir , Gharai Leila Rezai , Schwamm Lee , Gonzalez Ramon Gilberto , Lev Michael H.
Published: August 2008

Background and Purpose—

Our purpose was to determine (1) the correlation between quantitative CT and MR measurements of infarct core, penumbra, and mismatch; and (2) whether the difference between these measurements would alter patient selection for stroke clinical trials.

Methods—

We studied 45 patients with acute middle cerebral artery stroke imaged a mean of 3.8 hours after onset (range, 0.48 to 8.35 hours) who underwent CT perfusion and MR diffusion (DWI)/perfusion imaging within 3 hours of each other. The DWI and MR-mean transit time (MTT) abnormalities were visually segmented using a semiautomated commercial analysis program. The CT-cerebral blood volume) and CT-MTT lesions were automatically segmented using a relative cerebral blood volume threshold of 0.56 and a relative MTT threshold of 1.50 on commercially available software. Percent mismatch was defined as [(MTT−DWI)/DWI volume]×100. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated.

Results—

There were significant correlations for DWI versus CT-cerebral blood volume lesion volumes (
r
2
=0.88,
P
<0.001), for MR-MTT versus CT-MTT lesion volumes(
r
2
=0.86,
P
<0.001), and for MR-MTT/DWI versus CT-MTT/CT-cerebral blood volume mismatch lesion volumes(
r
2
=0.81,
P
<0.001). MR perfusion and CT perfusion agreed for determining: (1) infarct core < versus ≥100 mL in 41 of 45 (91.1%); (2) MTT lesion size < versus >2 cm diameter in 42 of 45 (93.3%); (3) mismatch < versus >20% in 41 of 45 (91.1%); and (4) inclusion versus exclusion from trial enrollment in 38 of 45 (84.4%) patients. Six of 7 disagreements were due to inadequate CT coverage.

Conclusion—

Advanced MR and CT perfusion imaging measurements of core/penumbra mismatch for patient selection in stroke trials are highly correlated when CT perfusion coverage is sufficient to include most of the ischemic region. Although MR is currently the preferred imaging method for determining core and penumbra, CT perfusion is comparable and potentially more available.
Politics and Literature in Russia
Authors: Doraiswamy Rashmi
Published: August 2008

This article deals with the literature of perestroika and focuses on the post-Soviet period. From the period of perestroika onwards, Russian literature, in its three avatars as official Soviet literature, dissident literature in the samizdat and Russian literature published abroad, came under the single category of ‘Russian Literature’. However, many diverse voices continue to exist in this now ‘unified’ literary scenario. The article identifies major movements, themes, critical positions and styles in contemporary Russian literature. It analyses works by major contemporary writers and also examines critical voices in the contemporary literary scene.
The Voice of Emotion in Chinese and Italian Young Adults
Authors: Anolli Luigi , Lei Wang  , Mantovani Fabrizia , De Toni Alessandro
Published: August 2008

This article outlines an exploratory comparative study of the vocal expression of emotions in Chinese versus Italian cultures. Given a strong relationship between voice and emotion, it is of special interest to analyze whether and how this connection may covariate with cultural influences in shaping emotions. Forty-eight undergraduates (29 Chinese and 19 Italian) are asked to read aloud short stories inducing different emotions (joy, sadness, anger, fear, contempt, pride, guilt, and shame) within a scenario approach. Subsequently, acoustic (sonographic) analysis is carried out on the recorded readings. On the one hand, the results confirm that different emotions may be expressed via variations in the modulation of vocal cues, in both cultures; on the other hand, differences in the specific patterns of vocal cues in expressing emotions are identified between Chinese and Italian participants. Theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.
Culture and Personality Among European American and Asian American Men
Authors: Eap Sopagna , DeGarmo David S. , Kawakami Ayaka , Hara Shelley N. , Hall Gordon C.N. , Teten Andra L.
Published: August 2008

Personality differences between Asian American ( N = 320) and European American men ( N = 242) and also among Asian American ethnic groups (Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and mixed Asian) are examined on the Big Five personality dimension. Personality structures for Asian Americans and European Americans closely replicate established norms. However, congruence is greater for European American and highly acculturated Asian American men than for low acculturated Asian American men. Similar patterns are found for the construct loss of face (LOF). Asian American men with a high concern for LOF are less similar in their personality structure to European American men than Asian American men with low LOF concern. Mean differences are also found among Asian American and European American men, who differ significantly on Extraversion, Conscientiousness, Openness, and Neuroticism. Results indicate that acculturation and LOF are significantly associated with these four personality dimensions for both Asian American and European American men.
Value Added?
Authors: Schecter Sandra R. , Sherri Dana L.
Published: August 2008

Research suggests that community-referenced pedagogy initiatives foster academic inclusion for minority students. However, we know little about such engagements' benefits for teachers. This study provides insights into teachers' dispositions toward school-based parent involvement in education based on ethnographic data collected through participant observation and sequenced, scheduled interviews and follow-up conversations with 3 key teacher respondents. Results demonstrate respondents' convergences regarding these engagements' “value-added” dimensions for the “other.” Teachers acknowledged benefits related to curriculum orientation for parents, opening lines of communication, building community, linguistic diversity as a resource, and parent advocacy. Although respondents converged on “value added” for self, they placed different emphases on this value's dimensions.
Changes in Women's Choice of Dress Across the Ovulatory Cycle: Naturalistic and Laboratory Task-Based Evidence
Authors: Durante Kristina M. , Li Norman P. , Haselton Martie G.
Published: August 2008

The authors tested the prediction that women prefer clothing that is more revealing and sexy when fertility is highest within the ovulatory cycle. Eighty-eight women reported to the lab twice: once on a low-fertility day of the cycle and once on a high-fertility day (confirmed using hormone tests). In each session, participants posed for full-body photographs in the clothing they wore to the lab, and they drew illustrations to indicate an outfit they would wear to a social event that evening. Although each data source supported the prediction, the authors found the most dramatic changes in clothing choice in the illustrations. Ovulatory shifts in clothing choice were moderated by sociosexuality, attractiveness, relationship status, and relationship satisfaction. Sexually unrestricted women, for example, showed greater shifts in preference for revealing clothing worn to the laboratory near ovulation. The authors suggest that clothing preference shifts could reflect an increase in female—female competition near ovulation.
Where Are the Politics? Perspectives on Democracy and Technology
Authors: Nahuis Roel , van Lente Harro
Published: August 2008

The politics of innovation involves displacements between various interrelated settings ranging from the context of design to the context of use. This variety of settings and their particular qualities raise questions about the democratic implications of displacements, which have been addressed within science and technology studies for decades from different perspectives and along various theoretical strands. This article distinguishes five different traditions of conceptualizing the relation between technological innovation and democracy: an intentionalist, a proceduralist, an actor—network, an interpretivist, and a performative perspective. They differ in their concepts of “technology,” “politics,” and “democracy”; they imply different roles for the analyst and they suggest or urge other political means. It is suggested that spelling out the differences and similarities between the five perspectives creates the possibility to overcome the limitations of any particular perspective of technology and democracy.
The Social and Religious Meaning of Nationalism: The Case of Prussian Conservatism 1815—1871
Authors: Avraham Doron
Published: August 2008

From the 1830s, Prussian conservatives started to contemplate the meaning of nationalism and national identity. The continuous efforts of liberals to bring about German national unification according to modern criteria, and the constant change in the social and economic structures, required the definition of nationalism on an alternative basis. In order to address the severe difficulties faced by society and to avoid national unification based on revolutionary foundations, Prussian conservatives defined German national identity on the basis of particular social relations and order, and on a unique version of religious devotion and designation. At the same time, however, the conservatives did not assign any political importance to these national peculiarities and continued to adhere to the traditional pattern of state and political authority. Such a definition of national identity was considerably different from the later fascist and racist national ideologies. In this regard, the conservative version of nationalism, as developed until the last quarter of the nineteenth century, cannot act as a precursor to National Socialism, as some historians have argued.
International History, Religious History, Catholic History: Perspectives for Cross-Fertilization (1830—1914)
Authors: Viaene Vincent
Published: August 2008

The essay explores what recent trends in international and religious (in particular, Catholic) history have to offer one another. On the one hand, the transformation of imperial history into global history and a new attention for the role of non-state actors in international politics are opening the eyes of international historians to religion as one of the main forces shaping the modern world. On the other hand, historians of religion are rediscovering the essentially transnational nature of their subject, and its enmeshment with politics at every turn. In the history of Catholicism, this takes the form of an aggiornamento of 'old-fashioned' themes such as ultramontanism, missionary expansion and the papacy. After having drifted apart for half a century, the two subdisciplines thus increasingly appear as natural allies in reconsidering the master narrative of modernity. The concept of 'religious internationalism', illustrated here through its Catholic variety, allows us to 'think together' the different aspects of religion's transformation into worldwide mass movements, and to grasp the key role of religion in creating a global public sphere that was conditioned by international politics, but in turn also refashioned the international system.
A report on location of death in paediatric palliative care between home, hospice and hospital
Authors: Siden H , Miller M , Straatman L , Omesi L , Tucker T , Collins JJ
Published: August 2008

This retrospective study analysed data for 703 children who died from 2000 to 2006 to examine where children with a broad range of progressive, life-limiting illnesses actually die when families are able to access hospital, paediatric hospice facility and care at home. There was an overall even distribution for location of death in which 35.1% of children died at home, 32.1% died in a paediatric hospice facility, 31.9% in hospital and 0.9% at another location. Previous research suggests a preference for home as the location of death, but these studies have primarily focused on adults, children with cancer or settings without paediatric hospice facilities available as an option. Our results suggest that the choice of families for end-of-life care is equally divided amongst all three options. Given the increasing numbers of children’s hospices worldwide, these findings are important for clinicians, care managers and researchers who plan, provide and evaluate the care of children with life-limiting illness.
Lamotrigine-induced obsessional symptoms in a patient with bipolar II disorder: a case report
Authors: Kuloglu M. , Caykoylu A. , Ekinci O. , Yilmaz E.
Published: August 2008

Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant that appears to have a mainly antidepressant effect and is indicated for the maintenance treatment of bipolar depression. Literature associated with obsessional symptoms related to lamotrigine treatment is limited. We report the emergence of obsessive symptoms during treatment with lamotrigine in a patient who subsequently experienced significant improvement after dose reduction and stopping of this medication. The obsessive symptoms associated with lamotrigine treatment were observed after the lamotrigine dose was increased to 100 mg/day. The possible mechanisms, including inhibition on the presynaptic release of glutamate and alteration of striatal dopamine uptake, are discussed. It is unclear why lamotrigine induces obsessions in some patients. Controlled studies are necessary to identify the population at risk for obsessionality in bipolar illness following treatment with lamotrigine and to investigate a possible dose—response relationship between obsessive symptoms and lamotrigine.
Patient factors associated with receipt of combination antipsychotic drug therapy in the treatment of schizophrenia
Authors: Hayhurst KP , Drake RJ , Lewis SW
Published: August 2008

Although discouraged in available treatment guidelines, combination antipsychotic prescribing (CAP) is a common practice in the treatment of schizophrenia. Patient characteristics may be associated with this type of treatment. A dataset (N = 363) derived from parallel randomised controlled trials was interrogated to identify factors associated with the receipt of CAP, and a logistic regression analysis was used to predict the occurrence of CAP. Significant predictors of CAP were longer illness, low global functioning score and high treatment adherence rating. Co-prescribed patients received a higher combined dose.
Asenapine induces differential regional effects on serotonin receptor subtypes
Authors: Tarazi FI , Moran-Gates T. , Wong EHF , Henry B. , Shahid M.
Published: August 2008

Asenapine, a novel psychopharmacologic agent being developed for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, has high affinity for a wide range of receptors, including the serotonergic receptors 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, 5-HT5A, 5-HT6and 5-HT7. We examined the long-term effects in rat brain of multiple doses of asenapine on representative serotonin receptor subtypes: 5-HT1A, 5-HT2Aand 5-HT2C. Rats were given asenapine (0.03, 0.1 or 0.3 mg/kg) subcutaneously twice daily or vehicle for 4 weeks. Brain sections were collected from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), dorsolateral frontal cortex (DFC), caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens, hippocampal CA1and CA3regions, and entorhinal cortex and processed for in-vitro receptor autoradiography. Asenapine 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg significantly increased 5-HT1Abinding in mPFC (by 24% and 33%, respectively), DFC (27%, 31%) and hippocampal CA1region (23%, 25%) (all P < 0.05). All three asenapine doses (0.03, 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg) significantly decreased 5-HT2Abinding by a similar degree in mPFC (40%, 44%, 47%, respectively) and DFC (45%, 51%, 52%) (all P < 0.05), but did not alter 5-HT2Abinding in the other brain regions studied. In contrast to the effects on 5-HT1Aand 5-HT2Areceptors, asenapine did not alter 5-HT2Cbinding in any brain region examined at the doses tested. Our results indicate that repeated administration of asenapine produces regional-specific effects on 5-HT1Aand 5-HT2Areceptors in rat forebrain regions, which may contribute to the distinctive psychopharmacologic profile of asenapine.
The Drugs—Violence Nexus Among Rural Felony Probationers
Authors: Oser Carrie B. , Mooney Jennifer L. , Staton-Tindall Michele , Leukefeld Carl G.
Published: August 2008

Little research has focused on the drugs—violence nexus in rural areas. As such, the purpose of this study is to use Goldstein's tripartite conceptual framework to examine the relationship between drugs and violence among felony probationers in rural Appalachian Kentucky ( n = 799). Data on demo-graphics, substance use criminal history, and violence were collected between 2001 and 2004 using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Rural probationers are partitioned into four groups based on lifetime violent victimization/perpetration experiences: (a) neither a perpetrator nor a victim, (b) perpetrator only, (c) victim only, and (d) both a perpetrator and a victim. Chi-square analyses indicate substance use, and criminal history varies across the four groups. Binary logistic regression analyses are used to explore the significant correlates of both perpetration and victimization. Multivariate analyses support both the psychopharmacological model and the economic compulsive models of perpetration and victimization. Further implications of these findings are discussed.
When Work Is Home
Authors: Butler Jennifer A. , Modaff Daniel P.
Published: August 2008

The authors describe the work experiences of in-home day care providers, particularly their relationships with the parents of the children for whom they care throughout the day. The authors identify two unintended consequences of the providers' organizing structures and policies: feelings of stress and underappreciation in potential interactions. Ironically, the providers also instituted these same structures and policies to stay home with their own children and meet their own financial needs. This double bind of agency and constraint produced stress, which in turn compromised their interactions with their family and friends. Findings highlight the difficulties involved in managing work and family from a home-based business and draw particular attention to the relational challenges faced by the providers.
Does State Funding Affect Graduation Rates at Public Four-Year Colleges and Universities?
Authors: Liang Zhang
Published: August 2008

This study uses panel data to examine the direct link between state funding and graduation rates at 4-year public institutions. We find some evidence for a positive association between state funding and college graduation rates. When other factors are held constant, a 10% increase in state appropriations per full-time equivalent (FTE) student at 4-year public institutions is associated with approximately a 0.64 percentage point increase in graduation rates. This positive link appears to hold for both institutions that have enjoyed an increase in state funding and those that have experienced a reduction. In addition, the positive association seems to hold for all research/doctoral, master’s, and baccalaureate institutions. These estimated effects are smaller and, in general, statistically insignificant when both institution and time-fixed effects are controlled.
Cain's Rejected Offering: Interpretive Approaches to a Theological Problem
Authors: Byron John
Published: August 2008

The story of Cain and Abel records the first ever offering made to God. The question that quickly rises to the surface when reading Gen. 4.3-7 is: What was wrong with Cain's offering? Why did God reject it? God's seeming capriciousness in rejecting one sacrifice over the other creates a theological problem. The problem is compounded by Abel's murder. Since Cain's act of fratricide is precipitated by God's unexplained rejection of the sacrifice which resulted in Cain's anger, God becomes complicit in the act. These problems opened the door for ancient interpreters to expand and rework the story in a way that exonerated God of appearing capricious and, by extension, complicit in Abel's murder. This article traces the interpretive approaches used by Jewish and Christian exegetes to respond to a theological problem created by gaps in the narrative.
The `Twenty-Fifth Year of Jeconiah' and the Date of 2 Baruch
Authors: Gurtner Daniel M.
Published: August 2008

This article argues that the phrase `twenty-fifth year of Jeconiah' reflects a formula attested in the Hebrew Bible which provides a basis for dating the composition and setting of 2 Baruch of 95 CE.
The Binitarian Nature of the Book of Similitudes
Authors: Scott Steven Richard
Published: August 2008

This study argues that there is evidence of binitarianism within Second Temple Judaism. A careful and close reading of the Book of Similitudes indicates that a distinction is made between the Lord of Spirits and the Name of the Lord of Spirits. Not only this, but the Name of the Lord of Spirits appears to be the same person as the figure that looks like a Son of Man and is variously referred to as the Chosen One, the Righteous One, and the Anointed. Such a distinction and equation would help explain why the earliest Christians would worship Jesus as an aspect of God. Also, if correct, the thesis would require a re-appraisal of Second Temple Judaism with regard to the nature of its monotheistic outlook.
Methodology for Design of an Active Rigidity Joint
Authors: Manzo Justin , Garcia Ephrahim
Published: August 2008

Active control of composite structures has primarily focused on vibration control and other small-scale deformations. For use in morphing aircraft structures, a composite ``smart joint'' is proposed, employing both shape memory alloy and shape memory polymer to replace a conventional rotary actuator. This joint functions as a discrete member capable of both actuation and structural rigidity in user programmable states, with large-scale tip deflections on the order of 10—20% camber. A strain energy model is used to prescribe joint deflection in terms of thermally varying material properties across the thickness of the joint, allowing the designer of a morphing system to select electrical power input and element composition as based on deflection, response speed, and load capacity. This model discretizes the transformation into a multiple step shape change maneuver using the tri-phase process to determine deflection both when heated and when set into its cooled state. Comparison with a finite element model confirms thermodynamics analysis as well as deflection accurate within 2% of analytically predicted behavior.
Reactions to Social Dilemmas as a Function of Group Identity, Rational Calculations, and Social Context
Authors: Jackson Jay W.
Published: August 2008

A group identification approach to social dilemmas is proposed, and the results of three studies are presented. Study 1 found that members of real groups were more cooperative than members of contrived groups and that this effect was mediated by group identification. Study 2 showed that participants were more cooperative when their in-group was in the majority and that this effect was moderated by strength of group identity. Study 3 replicated the mediation pattern found in Study 1 using different groups and a more rigorous method. In all three studies, measures of group concern, group trust, normative expectations, concern for personal benefit, estimated futility, and estimated redundancy were also administered. Both group identification and ego incentive motives need to be considered to fully understand people's responses to social dilemmas under varying social circumstances.
Understanding Patient Satisfaction, Trust, and Loyalty to Primary Care Physicians
Authors: Platonova Elena A. , Kennedy Karen Norman , Shewchuk Richard M.
Published: August 2008

The authors developed and empirically tested a model reflecting a system of interrelations among patient loyalty, trust, and satisfaction as they are related to patients' intentions to stay with a primary care physician (PCP) and recommend the doctor to other people. They used a structural equation modeling approach. The fit statistics indicate a well-fitting model: root mean square error of approximation = .022, goodness-of-fit index = .99, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = .96, and comparative fit index = 1.00. The authors found that patient trust and good interpersonal relationships with the PCP are major predictors of patient satisfaction and loyalty to the physician. Patients need to trust the PCP to be satisfied and loyal to the physician. The authors also found that patient trust, satisfaction, and loyalty are strong and significant predictors of patients' intentions to stay with the doctor and to recommend the PCP to others.
A Quest for Inspiration in the Liberal Peace Paradigm: Back to Bentham?
Authors: Baum Tomas
Published: August 2008

It is a fundamental dictum in the canon of IR theory that `democracies do not wage war against each other'. The philosopher Immanuel Kant is given credit for having originally advanced this essentially liberal research agenda in his essay entitled `Perpetual Peace'. The present article intends to offer a reassessment of this view by examining Kant's critical proposition, confronting it with the contemporary liberal perspective of Jeremy Bentham, and evaluating its implications on policy recommendations that are based on Kantian ideas. We will see how fundamental epistemological and ethical perspectives are the formative principles of Kant's peace essay and how these are not compatible with a liberal point of view. Bentham's `Plan for a Universal and Perpetual Peace' provides for a more genuine liberal inspiration. The differences that exist between both philosophers will disclose a normative predicament.
Cross-National Policy Networks and the State: EU Social Policy Transfer to Poland and Hungary
Authors: Sissenich Beate
Published: August 2008

This article challenges optimistic claims about the power of nonstate actors in cross-border policy networks. In a pilot study of two most-likely cases, the article examines the social policy network between the European Union and Poland and Hungary prior to accession. Two dimensions guide the analysis: Whether states act as gatekeepers and whether national borders restrict communications. The article shows that while labor and employers easily communicate with the EU, contacts fail to cut across national borders. Network data show that the EU significantly controls the flow of communication, a fact that runs counter to the notion of networks as fluid entities that enable all actors to link freely with others. Governments and the EU have an interest in network construction and control. Only by tracking network contacts empirically, the article argues, are we able to estimate the capacities and limits of nonstate actors in transnational politics.
e-PAR
Authors: Flicker Sarah , Maley Oonagh , Ridgley Andrea , Biscope Sherry , Lombardo Charlotte , Skinner Harvey A.
Published: August 2008

There is increasing interest in `moving upstream' in youth health promotion efforts to focus on building youth self-esteem, self-efficacy and civic engagement. Participatory Action Research (PAR) can be a powerful mechanism for galvanizing youth to become active agents of this change. Engaging youth in PAR and health promotion, however, is not always an easy task. This article describes a model (e-PAR) for using technology and Participatory Action Research to engage youth in community health promotion. The e-PAR Model was developed iteratively in collaboration with 57 youth and five community partners through seven projects. The Model is designed to be used with a group of youth working with a facilitator within a youth-serving organization. In addition to outlining the theoretical basis of the e-PAR Model, this article provides an overview of how the Model was developed along with implications for practice and research.
Reciprocity
Authors: Maiter Sarah , Simich Laura , Jacobson Nora , Wise Julie
Published: August 2008

Ethical issues have been of ongoing interest in discussions of community-based participatory action research (CBPAR). In this article we suggest that the notion of reciprocity — defined as an ongoing process of exchange with the aim of establishing and maintaining equality between parties — can provide a guide to the ethical practice of CBPAR. Through sharing our experiences with a CBPAR project focused on mental health services and supports in several cultural-linguistic immigrant communities in Ontario, Canada, we provide insights into our attempts at establishing reciprocal relationships with community members collaborating in the research study and discuss how these relationships contributed to ethical practice. We examine the successes and challenges with specific attention to issues of power and gain for the researched community. We begin with a discussion of the concept of reciprocity, followed by a description of how it was put into practice in our project, and, finally, conclude with suggestions for how an ethic of reciprocity might contribute to other CBPAR projects.