bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re-orienting Democratic Hospitality: Breaching Liberal Economies of Welcome
Authors: Kelly Elaine
Published: November 2011

Does democracy lead to more ethical or just systems of welcoming, of hospitality? Derrida considers an analysis of sovereignty as pivotal to any re-evaluation of contemporary politics and ethics, tying such a project in with deconstructions of democracy and hospitality: ‘what is “living together”? …must one live together only with one's like, with someone semblables?’ he asks in Rogues, prompting us to think through what it means to be, at once, democratic and hospitable. In this paper I propose that Derrida provides us with a way of re-orienting democracy and hospitality that complicates conditions of citizenship and belonging, of the nation-state and sovereignty and of justice and unconditionality. It is the contention of this paper that deconstructing sovereignty is essential for any re-orientation of practices of hospitality within liberal democratic countries. The figure of the foreigner and questions of hospitality reveal a deep ambivalence at the core of democracy in the sense that it provokes the desire for openness and closure simultaneously. In closing, I raise questions concerning the potential for deconstructive practice to engage in a future politico-ethics of the border in light of this critical evaluation of democracy. In so doing, I consider the role of deconstruction in relation to liberal modalities of hospitality.
Between the She-Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood: The Figure of the Girl in Derrida's The Beast and The Sovereign
Authors: Oliver Kelly
Published: November 2011

This essay explores the important role played by the figure of the virgin girl at the centre of The Beast and The Sovereign. Derrida hints that she may offer a figure between the beast and the sovereign, between the two marionettes of Nature and Culture. Moreover, it seems that she is both what props up the fabled distinction between man and animal and at the same time that upon which man erects himself as sovereign lord and master. Taking Derrida's suggestions further, I argue that the virgin girl both does and undoes sovereign power as phallic power. She is the figure behind the erection of sovereignty. Indeed, her appearance is both necessary and threatening insofar as she both erects sovereign phallic power and threatens to reveal its impotence. In this way, the girl operates between feminine and masculine, between Nature and Culture, between the beast and the sovereign, particularly as her virginity and its deflowering are essential to the cut between the two sides of these traditional binaries. Finally, her appearance is telling in relation to the movements and rhythms of Derrida's deconstructive approach to philosophy and literature in this seminar and in his work more generally.
Signs Observed Among Animal Species Infected with Raccoon Rabies Variant Virus, Massachusetts, USA, 1992–2010
Authors: Wang Xingtai , Werner Barbara G. , Smole Sandra , Pani Vasil , Han Linda L.
Published: November 2011

We analyzed signs occurring among domestic and wild terrestrial animal species infected with raccoon rabies variant virus (RRV) in Massachusetts, 1992–2010. The clinical sign of aggression was significantly associated with rabid stray cats (odds ratio, OR = 2.3) and RRV affected major wild terrestrial animal species individually, which included raccoons (OR = 2.8), skunks (OR = 8.0), gray foxes (OR = 21.3), red foxes (OR = 10.4), woodchucks (OR = 4.7) and coyotes (OR = 27.6). While aggression is a useful predictor of rabies among wild animals, combinations of other signs such as ataxia, disorientation, and salivation are useful predictors of rabies among domestic animals. Pets reported with multiple clinical signs had significantly higher rabies positive testing result than those reported with single clinical sign (p < 0.001). The result suggested the importance of avoiding aggressive terrestrial wild animals and giving additional attention to pets with multiple clinical signs.
Investigation of an Imported Case of Rabies in a Juvenile Dog with Atypical Presentation
Authors: Johnson Nicholas , Nunez Alex , Marston Denise A. , Harkess Graeme , Voller Katja , Goddard Trudy , Hicks Daniel , McElhinney Lorraine M. , Fooks Anthony R.
Published: November 2011

Movement of dogs between rabies-endemic and rabies-free countries carries the inherent risk of introducing the disease. In April of 2008, a juvenile dog was imported to the UK from Sri Lanka. It died shortly after transfer to a quarantine facility in the south-east of England following a short history of diarrhoea and convulsions but no overt signs of aggression. Subsequent investigation confirmed that rabies was the cause of death. Rabies virus was isolated from brain samples taken from the dog and the subsequent phylogenetic investigation confirmed that the genomic sequence from this virus shared over 99% homology with endemic rabies viruses from Sri Lanka. Histological examination of the brain demonstrated clear signs of encephalitis and rabies antigenic labeling in numerous neurons. In this particular case, Negri bodies were absent. As this case was diagnosed in a quarantine facility, the ‘rabies-free’ status of the UK was un-affected.
A Computer Program for Modeling the Conversion of Organic Waste to Energy
Authors: Namuli Rachel , Laflamme Claude B. , Pillay Pragasen
Published: November 2011

This paper presents a tool for the analysis of conversion of organic waste into energy. The tool is a program that uses waste characterization parameters and mass flow rates at each stage of the waste treatment process to predict the given products. The specific waste treatment process analysed in this paper is anaerobic digestion. The different waste treatment stages of the anaerobic digestion process are: conditioning of input waste, secondary treatment, drying of sludge, conditioning of digestate, treatment of digestate, storage of liquid and solid effluent, disposal of liquid and solid effluents, purification, utilization and storage of combustible gas. The program uses mass balance equations to compute the amount of CH4, NH3, CO2 and H2S produced from anaerobic digestion of organic waste, and hence the energy available. Case studies are also presented.
In Silico Identification of Structure Requirement for Novel Thiazole and Oxazole Derivatives as Potent Fructose 1,6-Bisphosphatase Inhibitors
Authors: Hao Ming , Zhang Xiaole , Ren Hong , Li Yan , Zhang Shuwei , Luo Fang , Ji Mingjuan , Li Guohui , Yang Ling
Published: November 2011

Fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) has been identified as a drug discovery target for lowering glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this study, a large series of 105 FBPase inhibitors were studied using a combinational method by 3D-QSAR, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations for a further improvement in potency. The optimal 3D models exhibit high statistical significance of the results, especially for the CoMFA results with rncv2, q2 values of 0.986, 0.514 for internal validation, and rpred2, rm2 statistics of 0.902, 0.828 statistics for external validation. Graphic representation of the results, as contoured 3D coefficient plots, also provides a clue to the reasonable modification of molecules. (1) Substituents with a proper length and size at the C5 position of the thiazole core are required to enhance the potency; (2) A small and electron-withdrawing group at the C2 position linked to the thiazole core is likely to help increase the FBPase inhibition; (3) Substituent groups as hydrogen bond acceptors at the C2 position of the furan ring are favored. In addition, the agreement between 3D-QSAR, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation proves the rationality of the developed models. These results, we hope, may be helpful in designing novel and potential FBPase inhibitors.
Synthesis and Bio-Activity Evaluation of Scutellarein as a Potent Agent for the Therapy of Ischemic Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Qian Li-Hua , Li Nian-Guang , Tang Yu-Ping , Zhang Li , Tang Hao , Wang Zhen-Jiang , Liu Li , Song Shu-Lin , Guo Jian-Ming , Ding An-Wei
Published: November 2011

Scutellarein, the main metabolite of scutellarin in vivo, has relatively better solubility, bioavailability and bio-activity than scutellarin. However, it is very difficult to obtain scutellarein in nature compared with scutellarin. Therefore, the present study focused on establishing an efficient route for the synthesis of scutellarein by hydrolyzing scutellarin. The in vitro antioxidant activities of scutellarein were evaluated by measuring its scavenging capacities toward DPPH, ABTS+•, •OH free radicals and its protective effect on H2O2-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells using MTT assay method. The results showed that essential point to the synthesis was the implementation of H2SO4 in 90% ethanol in N2 atmosphere; scutellarein had stronger antioxidant activity than scutellarin. The results have laid the foundation for further research and the development of scutellarein as a promising candidate for ischemic cerebrovascular disease.
Exploring the Correlation Between Lipid Packaging in Lipoplexes and Their Transfection Efficacy
Authors: Moghaddam Behfar , McNeil Sarah E. , Zheng Qinguo , Mohammed Afzal R. , Perrie Yvonne
Published: November 2011

Whilst there is a large body of evidence looking at the design of cationic liposomes as transfection agents, correlates of formulation to function remain elusive. In this research, we investigate if lipid packaging can give further insights into transfection efficacy. DNA lipoplexes composed of 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) or 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DSPE) in combination with 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP) or 1,2-stearoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DSTAP) were prepared by the lipid hydration method. Each of the formulations was prepared by hydration in dH2O or phosphate buffer saline (PBS) to investigate the effect of buffer salts on lipoplex physicochemical characteristics and in vitro transfection. In addition, Langmuir monolayer studies were performed to investigate any possible correlation between lipid packaging and liposome attributes. Using PBS, rather than dH2O, to prepare the lipoplexes increased the size of vesicles in most of formulations and resulted in variation in transfection efficacies. However, one combination of lipids (DSPE:DOTAP) could not form liposomes in PBS, whilst the DSPE:DSTAP combination could not form liposomes in either aqueous media. Monolayer studies demonstrated saturated lipid combinations offered dramatically closer molecular packing compared to the other combinations which could suggest why this lipid combination could not form vesicles. Of the lipoplexes prepared, those formulated with DSTAP showed higher transfection efficacy, however, the effect of buffer on transfection efficiency was formulation dependent.
Electrochemical Characterization of Riboflavin-Enhanced Reduction of Trinitrotoluene
Authors: Sumner James J. , Chu Kevin
Published: November 2011

There is great interest in understanding trinitrotoluene (TNT) and dinitrotoluene (DNT) contamination, detection and remediation in the environment due to TNT’s negative health effects and security implications. Numerous publications have focused on detecting TNT in groundwater using multiple techniques, including electrochemistry. The main degradation pathway of nitrotoluenes in the environment is reduction, frequently with biological and/or photolytic assistance. Riboflavin has also been noted to aid in TNT remediation in soils and groundwater when exposed to light. This report indicates that adding riboflavin to a TNT or DNT solution enhances redox currents in electrochemical experiments. Here AC voltammetry was performed and peak currents compared with and without riboflavin present. Results indicated that TNT, DNT and riboflavin could be detected using AC voltammetry on modified gold electrodes and the addition of riboflavin affected redox peaks of TNT and DNT. Poised potential experiments indicated that it is possible to enhance reduction of TNT in the presence of riboflavin and light. These results were dramatic enough to explain long term enhancement of bioremediation in environments containing high levels of riboflavin and enhance the limit of detection in electrochemically-based nitrotoluene sensing.
Mortality of HIV-Infected Patients with or without Cancer: Comparison with the General Population in Italy
Authors: Galli Laura , Spagnuolo Vincenzo , Salpietro Stefania , Gianotti Nicola , Cossarini Francesca , Lazzarin Adriano , Castagna Antonella
Published: November 2011

Background

HAART has reduced mortality in HIV-infected patients; however, the risk of non-AIDS-related events has increased, including cancer. We compared mortality in HIV-infected patients with or without cancer with the general population in Italy.

Methods

Eligible patients were recorded in the San Raffaele Infectious Diseases Department database. The ratio of observed deaths to expected all-cause deaths (standardized mortality ratio [SMR]) was standardized for age and gender, and stratified by cancer occurrence or year of HIV infection (≤1998 or >1998). Expected all-cause deaths were obtained from the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (Rome, Italy; 2002 data).

Results

Among 6,495 HIV-infected patients, contributing 75,171 person-years, the SMR was 6.0 (95% CI 5.7, 6.4); SMRs decreased as age increased. Mortality rates were significantly higher than the general population for patients with or without cancer (SMR=15.1 [95% CI 13.6, 16.7] and 4.8 [95% CI 4.5, 5.1], respectively). For patients with or without cancer, SMRs were higher in those aged <45 years than older patients. SMRs for patients with cancer were almost stable in those infected with HIV ≤1998 (15.3; 95% CI 13.7, 17.0) or >1998 (13.5; 95% CI 9.2, 19.1). Among patients with cancer diagnosed with HIV >1998, age-adjusted SMRs ranged from 216.0 (95% CI 43.4, 631.3) to 6.8 (95% CI 4.7, 9.7) in patients <30 years or ≥70 years, respectively.

Conclusions

Mortality in HIV-infected patients remains higher than the general population in Italy, with marked differences according to age, and cancer contributing to an increased excess of mortality.
Low Rates of Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Resistance in a Well-Monitored Cohort in South Africa on Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Wallis Carole L , Papathanasopolous Maria A , Fox Matthew , Conradie Francesca , Ive Prudence , Orrell Catherine , Zeinecker Jennifer , Sanne Ian , Wood Robin , McIntyre James , Stevens Wendy ,   the CIPRA-SA project 1 study team, Badal-Faesen Sharlaa , Botile Mildred , Choonilal Nastassja , Gelant Sharlaa , Grab Janet , Graham Veronica , Hafejee Najma , Hamber Lynda , Harduth Sindesh , Hendricks Johean , Herman Colleen , Hero Mellissa , Kaplan Richard , Killa Nicola , Klemp Daniella , Laher Faisel , Mabiletsa Thandi , Madlala Zanele , Mafukuzela Ntombekaya , Mahlatsi Bontle , Marias Helgard , Mfundisi Nomakhaya , Motloba Buang , Moyo Cindy , Mtshizana Mcebisi , Ncana Lundi , Newell Kevin , Palmer Sean , Pearce Deborah , Potts Mary-Ann , Radebe Daphne , Reyneke Anne , Segeneco Anna , Sekgale Jennifer , Steyn Jan , Thebe Pinky , Truter Handre , van Niekerk Diederik , Verheye-Dua Frieda , Voges Karlien , Woolgar) Helen , Maartens Gary , Spencer David , van der Horst Charles , Ingram Charlotte , Glencross Debbie
Published: November 2011

Background

The emergence of complex HIV-1 drug resistance mutations has been linked to the duration of time patients are on a failing antiretroviral drug regimen. This study reports on resistance profiles in a closely monitored subtype C infected cohort.

Methods

A total of 812 participants were enrolled into the CIPRA-SA ‘safeguard the household’ study, viral loads were determined at 12-weekly intervals for 96 weeks. Virological failure was defined as either a <1.5 log decrease in viral load at week 12 or two consecutive viral load measurements of >1,000 RNA copies/ml after week 24. Regimens prescribed were in line with the South African roll-out programme (stavudine, lamivudine, efavirenz or nevirapine). Viral RNA was extracted from patients with virological failure, and pol reverse-transcriptase PCR and sequence analysis were performed to determine drug-resistant mutations.

Results

Virological failure was observed in 83 participants on the first-line regimen during the study period, of which 61 (73%) had HIV-1 drug-resistant mutations. The M184V mutation was the most frequent ( n=46; 65%), followed by K103N (46%) and Y181C (21%). Thymidine analogue mutations were infrequent (1%) and Q151M was not observed.

Conclusions

Drug resistance profiles were less complex than has been previously reported in South Africa using the same antiretroviral drug regimens. These data suggest that frequent viral load monitoring limits the level and complexity of resistance observed in HIV-1 subtype C, preserving susceptibility to second-line options.
Antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes of non-typhoidal Salmonella isolates in The Gambia and Senegal
Authors: Dione Michel M , Ikumapayi Usman , Saha Debasish , Mohammed Nuredin Ibrahim , Adegbola Richard A , Geerts Stanny , Ieven Margareta , Antonio Martin
Published: November 2011

Introduction: The prevalence of virulence genes in non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) and its association with commonly used antibiotics in West Africa is unknown. Methodology: We tested 185 NTS isolates from children, animals, and food products for the presence of twelve virulence genes by PCR. Ten of the virulence genes tested belonged to the five Salmonella pathogenicity islands implicated in its pathogenesis. Results: Ten of twelve virulence genes except sopE and pefA were present in at least 70% of the isolates tested; sopE and pefA were observed in 33% and 44% of the isolates, respectively. The most prevalent gene was invA (99.5%), which is an invasion gene conserved within the Salmonella enterica. pipD and sopB genes, which were associated with serovar Enteritidis, were detected in 92.4% and 94.1% of isolates respectively. S. Istanbul and S. Javiana, which were isolated from chicken-serving restaurants, carried all the virulence genes of the five pathogenicity islands. There was significant association between sopB, sitC, orfLC, pipD and pefA virulence genes and resistance to commonly used antibiotics in Senegal and The Gambia, namely amoxicillin, ticarcillin, trimethoprim plus sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline, trimethoprim, spectinomycin, streptomycin, sulfonamides and nitrofurantoin. Conclusions: This study shows that virulence genes are present in NTS strains isolated from various sources. The significant association between some virulence genes and antibiotic resistance may have important implications with regard to the spread and persistence of resistance and virulence genes in Salmonella and to the prudent use of antimicrobial agents in humans and animals in West Africa.
Primary echinococcal cyst in the axillary region
Authors: Ozsoy Mustafa , Keles Celalettın , Kahya Mumtaz , Keles Gonul
Published: November 2011

Introduction: Human hydatid disease is a parasitic infection caused by the larval form of Echinococcus granulosus. It has worldwide distribution and is endemic in many countries, especially the Mediterranean region. It most commonly affects the liver and lungs although multi-organ involvement has been observed in 20-30% of patients. Case report: A 45-year-old woman presented to a gynaecologist because of a mass in the axillary region. Her mother and her two sisters were undergoing treatment for breast cancer. In her examination, a hard, semi-mobile, painless mass was found that was approximately 3 cm in diameter. Axillary ultrasonography showed lymphadenopathy. No abnormality was found in mammographic examination of either breast, or in abdominal ultrasonography and chest X-ray. Occult breast cancer was suspected but when the mass was excised for pathological examination the biopsy showed a hydatid cyst with germinative membranes. Subsequent lung, abdomen and brain tomography scans, whole body bone scintigraphy and hydatid serology, including indirect haemagglutination and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, were negative. For these reasons an isolated axillary hydatid cyst was diagnosed.  Conclusion: Parasitic cysts should be considered in endemic areas in patients presenting with a soft tissue mass in the axillary region. Imaging methods should be planned to include this possibility.
The Unauthorized Student Population: Examining the Alternatives
Authors: Javier Jennifer
Published: November 2011

Unauthorized students face significant barriers to pursuing a higher education due to their legal status. These challenges include the fear of revealing their status, the inability to work legally, and federal and state laws that increase the cost of tuition. Obtaining a higher education and legal status would allow these individuals to earn higher incomes, lead healthier lives, and fully contribute to their communities. This paper examines alternatives that address the status of the unauthorized population and, among these options, recommends the best approach to their plight.
Food Justice
Authors: Bourke Megan C.
Published: November 2011

No abstract available.
Effect of Australia's Walk to Work Day Campaign on Adults' Active Commuting and Physical Activity Behavior
Authors: Merom Dafna , Miller Yvette , Lymer Sharyn , Bauman Adrian
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To determine whether Australia's Walk to Work Day media campaign resulted in behavioral change among targeted groups.

Methods.

Pre- and postcampaign telephone surveys of a cohort of adults aged 18 to 65 years (n = 1100, 55% response rate) were randomly sampled from Australian major metropolitan areas. Tests for dependent samples were applied (McNemar χ2 or paired t-test).

Results.

Among participants who did not usually actively commute to work was a significant decrease in “car only” use and an increase in walking combined with public transport. Among those who were employed was a significant increase in total time walking (+16 min/wk; t [780] = 2.04, p < .05) and in other moderate physical activity (+l20 min/wk; t [1087] = 4.76, p < .005), resulting in a significant decrease in the proportion who were “inactive” (χ2 (1) = 6.1, p < .05).

Conclusion.

Although nonexperimental, the Walk to Work Day initiative elicited short-term changes in targeted behaviors among target groups. Reinforcement by integrating worksite health promotion strategies may be required for sustained effects.
Increasing the Health Promotion Practices of Workplaces in Australia with a Proactive Telephone-Based Intervention
Authors: Daly Justine , Licata Milly , Gillham Karen , Wiggers John
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

The aim of this study was to explore the potential effectiveness of a proactive telephone-based intervention in increasing workplace adoption of health promotion initiatives.

Methods.

A telephone-based direct marketing strategy was used to contact a sample of Australian workplaces to encourage the adoption of health promotion initiatives. Workplaces were offered free services and resources designed to facilitate adoption of health promotion initiatives.

Results.

A total of 227 (71%) workplaces provided informed consent to participate in both baseline and 4-year follow-up surveys. Significant increases were evident for seven of the eight health promotion initiatives.

Discussion.

The findings of this study suggest that a proactive telephone-based intervention has the potential to be effective in increasing the prevalence of health promotion initiatives across a range of health topics in a large population of workplaces. Given the capacity to reach an entire population of workplaces, this approach represents a promising means of achieving the established potential of workplace health promotion.
Reliability and Validity of a Single-Item Measure of Job Satisfaction
Authors: Dolbier Christyn L. , Webster Judith A. , McCalister Katherine T. , Mallon Mark W. , Steinhardt Mary A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To investigate the reliability and validity of a single-item overall job satisfaction measure.

Methods.

Public agency employees (n = 745) were surveyed regarding job satisfaction, work, personality, and health variables. The single-item measure underwent the following analyses: correction for attenuation formula to estimate minimum reliability; correlations with multiple-item job satisfaction, work, personality, and health measures to determine concurrent validity, construct validity, and specific relevance to health promotion; and logistic regression to determine the predictability of turnover intention.

Results.

For the single-item measure the minimum reliability estimate was high, all correlational tests for validity were significant, logistic regression indicated substantial predictability of turnover intention, and correlations with the health measures were significant.

Discussion.

These results are consistent with other studies and support the psychometric properties of this single-item overall job satisfaction measure. Limitations of the study and its implications for worksite health promotion are discussed.
Relationships between Behavioral Risk Factors and Dental Care Costs in a Japanese Worksite
Authors: Chikamoto Yosuke , Igarashi Isao , Yamada Rina
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To identify the magnitude of dental care costs and examine the relationship between behavioral risk factors and dental care costs in a Japanese corporation.

Design.

A one-time cross-sectional design was used with each employee as a unit of analysis.

Setting.

The setting was a large Japanese corporation where Japan's standard health care insurance, including dental care coverage, was provided for all employees.

Subjects.

A full-time employee population of 6543 was included. Seventy-six percent were men, and the majority were white-collar workers.

Measures.

Data were available on dental care costs and self-reported behavioral dental care risk, including smoking and oral self-care, obtained from the company's annual physical checkups in the 2000 fiscal year. Dichotomous variables of expenditures for employees having no dental claims and those having high claims defined as 90th percentile or above were created.

Results.

The dental care costs made up approximately 24.3% of the health care costs. Thirty-five percent of the employees were smokers. Employees who were at least 40 years old and employees who were women were associated with the likelihood of using dental care services (odds ratio [OR] = 1.622 and 0.783, respectively), and no behavioral risk was associated. The likelihood of incurring high dental care costs was associated with smoking when including all employees in addition to those who used any dental care services (OR = 1.315 and 1.386, respectively).

Conclusions.

This study suggests the relationships of smoking as well as age and sex to dental care costs in an employer setting. To provide a strong case for health promotion in Japan, future research should address critical issues such as reliable and valid risk measurement and the use of longitudinal designs and intervention studies.
The Evolution of Tobacco Use and Control in the United States: An Interview with Dr. John Farquhar
Authors: Hwang Jamie
Published: November 2011

Dr. John Farquhar begins the interview by describing the history and evolution of tobacco use in the United States, in particular the technological advances contributing to the explosive increase in tobacco consumption and the various phases documenting the rise and decline of smoking. Subsequently, Dr. Farquhar explains the effectiveness of tobacco control policies, the type of evidence that was influential in generating public awareness about smoking as a health risk, the effect of community-based interventions, the effect of the environment on smoking patterns, the role of governmental health plans and insurance corporations within the antitobacco movement, reimbursement for smoking cessation treatments, and lessons for Japan's campaign against smoking. One of Dr. Farquhar's main points throughout the interview is the significance of a professional community's leadership in educating the general public. Although the availability of scientific data generated awareness among physicians and scientists, the actions of health professionals were instrumental in creating policies and setting an example for the community as a whole.
Predictors of Fat Intake Behavior Differ between Normal-Weight and Obese WIC Mothers
Authors: Chang Mei-Wei , Baumann Linda C. , Nitzke Susan , Brown Roger L.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To determine whether predictors of fat intake behavior were the same for normal-weight and obese WIC mothers when applying the PRECEDE-PROCEED model and to identify predictors for each group.

Design.

Proportional stratified convenience sampling.

Subjects.

Five hundred eighty-one nonpregnant, black and white normal-weight (n = 180) or obese (n = 401) women.

Settings.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children in six counties in southern Wisconsin.

Measures.

The independent variables were predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors. Predisposing factors included beliefs in diet and health, beliefs in diet and body shape, health concerns in food choice, health concerns in nutrition, and eating habits. Enabling factors were cost of food, availability of time to prepare food, and accessibility to purchase food. Reinforcing factors were weight control intentions, sensory appeal, and mood. The dependent variable was fat intake behavior. Structural equation modeling was performed.

Results.

When controlling for covariates, certain factors affecting fat intake behavior differed between the normal-weight and the obese groups. For the normal-weight group, only reinforcing factors were positively associated with fat intake behavior. For the obese group, reinforcing and enabling, but not predisposing, factors were positively associated with fat intake behavior.

Conclusions.

Interventions to modify low-income women's fat intake behavior might benefit from targeting behavioral predictors that differ with body size. Messages that emphasize weight control intentions, sensory appeal, and mood are likely to affect both normal-weight and obese women. Information about cost of food, availability of time to prepare food, and accessibility to purchase food is likely to be more effective with obese women.
A New Channel for Health Promotion: Building Trade Unions
Authors: Barbeau Elizabeth M. , Goldman Roberta , Roelofs Cora , Gagne Joshua , Harden Elizabeth , Conlan Kathleen , Stoddard Anne , Sorensen Glorian
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Labor unions are a largely unevaluated channel for health promotion interventions for working class populations, who are at increased risk for smoking and poor diet. We conducted qualitative and quantitative research to understand the meaning and function of union membership in workers' lives and applied this information to health promotion intervention design.

Methods.

Cross-sectional data included a survey conducted with a nationally representative sample of unionized construction workers (n = 1109; 44% response rate), and 16 focus groups (n = 88) conducted in multiple regions around the country.

Results.

The vast majority of survey respondents held strongly positive views of their union. Focus group findings revealed the meaning of the union in members' daily lives, how members view information from the union, and their perceptions of the union's limitations.

Conclusions.

The findings provide a compelling rationale for considering unions as a channel for health promotion interventions.
The Healthy Hawaii Initiative: A Social Ecological Approach Promoting Healthy Communities
Authors: Nigg Claudio , Maddock Jay , Yamauchi Jessica , Pressler Virginia , Wood Betty , Jackson Susan
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

The tobacco settlement has provided the opportunity for the state of Hawaii to implement the Healthy Hawaii Initiative (HHI), targeting smoking, poor nutrition and physical inactivity. The purpose of this paper is to describe and document preliminary findings.

Methods.

The social ecological model is translated into practice through school and community grants to create systems, environmental and policy changes, teacher training on health and physical education standards, continuing education for the medical community in behavioral health, and a public education campaign. A comprehensive evaluation provides ongoing feedback for program improvement and progress on the effects of psychosocial mediators, behaviors, and long-term chronic diseases.

Results and Discussion.

Preliminary process results presented here are promising. The components are thought to interact synergistically to bring about behavior changes statewide. The HHI is one example of how to implement a multilevel initiative to target the three major behavioral determinants of chronic disease (tobacco use, physical inactivity, and poor nutrition) and build healthier communities.
Textual Analysis of Tobacco Editorials: How are Key Media Gatekeepers Framing the Issues?
Authors: Smith Katherine Clegg , Wakefield Melanie
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

The news media's potential to promote awareness of health issues is established, and media advocacy is now an important tool in combating tobacco use. This study examines newspaper editors' perspectives of tobacco-related issues.

Design.

This study presents a textual analysis of tobacco-related editorials. The data consist of editorials on tobacco from a sample of 310 U.S. daily newspapers over the course of 1 year (2001). Data were sampled from a random one-third of the days per month, yielding 162 editorials for analysis. A qualitative textual analysis was conducted. Each editorial was coded for theme, position, and frame. We analyzed the topics gaining editorial attention and the arguments made to support various perspectives.

Results.

Editorials discussed a variety of both positive and negative news events, largely conveying support for tobacco-control objectives. Various organizing frames were used—supporting policy interventions, condemning the industry, highlighting individual rights, and expressing general cynicism were most prevalent.

Conclusion.

Editors largely promoted tobacco-control efforts, particularly policy advances. There was, however, little coverage of key issues such as health effects and addiction—perhaps because they are no longer perceived to be contentious. Advocates should seek to address this area and minimize the cynicism of key media gatekeepers to avoid undermining policy and individual change efforts.
Relationships between Smoking Behavior and Readiness to Change Physical Activity Patterns in a Community in Japan
Authors: Akamatsu Rie , Nakamura Masakazu , Shirakawa Taro
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To examine the relationship between readiness to change exercise behavior and smoking behavior, stratified by gender.

Methods.

A cross-sectional survey of those inhabitants of Hikami, Japan, who were 30 years of age or older (n = 11,708). The response rate was 82.1%. Chi-squared tests and analysis of variance were used to evaluate differences in characteristics by smoking behavior, and the odds ratio (OR) was calculated to examine the relationship while controlling for possible confounding factors such as age, body mass index, and health consciousness.

Results.

Even when controlling for confounding factors, the relationship between the two behaviors differed according to gender. Among males, ex-smokers were more likely to be motivated to exercise (OR, 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], .95–1.36), whereas among females, smokers were more likely to be motivated to exercise (OR, .40; 95% CI, .34–.48).

Discussion.

Despite some limitations, the findings suggest that gender should be used as a stratification variable when discussing the relationship between smoking and exercise behaviors.
Preteen Attitudes about Smoking and Parental Factors Associated with Favorable Attitudes
Authors: Bush Terry , Curry Susan J. , Hollis Jack , Grothaus Louis , Ludman Evette , McAfee Tim , Polen Michael , Oliver Malia
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To describe youth smoking-related attitudes and evaluate the effects of parental factors on child adoption of positive attitudes about smoking.

Design.

This study used baseline and 20-month data from a family-based smoking-prevention study (82.9% completed both surveys).

Setting.

Telephone recruitment from two health maintenance organizations.

Subjects.

Children aged 10 to 12 years and one parent of each child (n = 418 families) were randomly assigned to a frequent assessment cohort (12.5% of participants).

Intervention.

Families received a mailed smoking-prevention packet (parent handbook, videotape about youth smoking, comic book, pen, and stickers), outreach telephone counselor calls to the parent, a newsletter, and medical record prompts for providers to deliver smoking-prevention messages to parents and children.

Measures.

Demographics, tobacco status, attitudes about smoking (Teenage Attitudes and Practices Survey), family discussions about tobacco, family cohesiveness (family support and togetherness), parent involvement, parent monitoring, and parenting confidence.

Results.

One-third of the children endorsed beliefs that they could smoke without becoming addicted, and 8% to 10% endorsed beliefs on the benefits of smoking. Children's positive attitudes about smoking were associated with lower family cohesiveness (p = .01). Parental use of tobacco was the only significant predictor of children's positive attitudes about tobacco at 20 months (p = .03).

Conclusions.

Children as young as 10 years underestimate addictive properties of smoking, which may place them at risk for future smoking. Parental use of tobacco and family cohesiveness are important factors in the formulation of preteen attitudes about smoking.
Statewide Intervention to Reduce Television Viewing in WIC Clients and Staff
Authors: Johnson Donna B. , Birkett Diana , Evens Carina , Pickering Sheryl
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To evaluate a statewide campaign that was designed to reduce television viewing by clients and staff of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Television reduction is frequently recommended as a strategy for preventing pediatric overweight.

Methods.

Data were collected from a convenience sample of 10,445 clients and staff who attended clinics during a 3-week period before the intervention and 9188 clients and staff who attended clinics after the intervention. Chi-square tests were used to compare the proportion of WIC clients watching television 2 or 3 hours per day before and after the intervention. Within the context of WIC, which is a large and complex public health program, it was not possible to measure individual exposures or response rates.

Results.

At baseline, 64.2% of WIC clients reported watching 2 or less hours of television per day. After the intervention, 70.5% limited television viewing to this recommended level.

Conclusions.

It is feasible to deliver television-reduction messages in large public health programs.
Efficacy of an E-Mail Intervention for the Promotion of Physical Activity and Nutrition Behavior in the Workplace Context
Authors: Plotnikoff Ronald C. , McCargar Linda J. , Wilson Philip M. , Loucaides Constantinos A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a 12-week workplace e-mail intervention designed to promote physical activity and nutrition behavior.

Design.

A pre- and post-test design was conducted to compare the effects of e-mail messages between intervention and control groups.

Setting.

Five large workplaces in Alberta, Canada.

Subjects.

Employees with access to a personal e-mail address (N = 2121) were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 1566) or a control group (n = 555).

Intervention.

Physical activity and nutrition messages were based on social-cognitive theories. The intervention group received one physical activity and one parallel nutrition message per week for 12 weeks. The control group received no weekly messages.

Measures.

Each participant completed self-report measures of physical activity and nutrition related to knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors 1 week before (time 1) and 1 week after (time 2) the intervention.

Results.

The intervention group was more efficacious at time 2 on measures of self-efficacy, pros, cons, intentions, and behavior related to physical activity. This group also reported more favorable changes in practicing healthy eating, balancing food intake with activity level, cooking meals with techniques to reduce fat, and avoiding eating high-fat foods. Effect sizes for all significant differences were small.

Conclusion.

E-mail is a promising mode of delivery for promoting physical activity and nutrition in the workplace. Further theoretically driven studies are needed.
Aspectos conceituais da multidisciplinaridade e da interdisciplinaridade
Authors: Bicalho Lucinéia Maria , Oliveira Marlene
Published: November 2011

Este artigo apresenta a evolução conceitual dos termos multidisciplinaridade e interdisciplinaridade, bem como ideias básicas que identificam a abordagem transdisciplinar, a partir de amplo referencial teórico. O texto é parte de pesquisa de doutorado cujo objetivo principal foi analisar a investigação científica desenvolvida no âmbito da Ciência da Informação que tenham participação de mais de uma disciplina. Para isso, utilizou-se os conceitos ora apresentados. Foram estudados, para tanto, autores contemporâneos de diferentes áreas para composição do quadro conceitual no qual se baseou a análise. Os resultados da pesquisa completa permitiram traçar um perfil da pesquisa na área, relativamente à utilização das citadas abordagens, concluindo-se que diferentes formas e níveis de interações são encontrados em pesquisas na ciência da informação, sendo a multidisciplinaridade a mais comum. Conclui-se, ainda, relativamente aos aspectos aqui apresentados, que os conceitos sofreram alterações que provocaram mudanças significativas em seus significados. Essas mudanças levam à necessidade de uma reavaliação e atualização, no âmbito da Ciência da Informação, sobre as implicações de ser uma área interdisciplinar, de acordo com o sentido adquirido pelo termo atualmente.
Portal corporativo interno de um hospital universitário: um estímulo à aprendizagem organizacional
Authors: Sguario Valeria Maria Gataz , Tomaél Maria Inês
Published: November 2011

Diante da utilização de portais como importantes veículos de comunicação e informação, este artigo relata o desenvolvimento do portal corporativo interno de um hospital universitário, mediante a analogia com os processos de análise, síntese e representação da informação, bem como os benefícios alcançados e as perspectivas para o fomento da gestão da informação e da aprendizagem organizacional. O artigo se divide em três tópicos. A primeira parte discute os processos de gestão da informação e da aprendizagem organizacional, enfatizando a influência e as contribuições da tecnologia da informação. A segunda descreve o processo de análise - com a coleta das informações; de síntese - com a definição dos objetivos e do planejamento; e da representação das informações - que resultou no desenvolvimento do portal. E, por último, são apresentados os benefícios e as perspectivas de evolução desse portal, bem como a força da cultura organizacional e do indivíduo nesse contexto.
Avaliação e responsabilização pelos resultados: atualizações nas formas de gestão de professores
Authors: Shiroma Eneida Oto , Evangelista Olinda
Published: November 2011

Neste artigo discuti-se a avaliação e responsabilização pelos resultados educacionais nas políticas para professores entendendo-as como eixos que pretendem instituir novos modos de governar a educação. Por meio da consulta a documentos nacionais e internacionais, e com base na literatura sobre o tema, verifica-se que as políticas dirigidas aos docentes têm em vista incutir a lógica de gestão por resultados nas instituições escolares. A avaliação de docentes é recomendada pelos reformadores como uma das ações mais eficazes para melhorar o desempenho dos alunos nas avaliações. A implantação da gestão por resultados no sistema educacional tem menos a ver com questões propriamente educativas e mais com a busca de uma nova governabilidade para a educação pública ungida pela ideologia gerencialista. Publicar resultados de avaliações sem considerar as condições em que foram produzidos conduz a análises equivocadas sobre os fatores que interferem na relação ensino-aprendizagem. Concluí-se que, ao focar nos aspectos intraescolares procura-se responsabilizar os docentes pelo desempenho insatisfatório dos alunos. Nas estratégias de Organizações Multilaterais para a educação, o resultado não é fim, é meio para quebrar a isonomia salarial e instituir novas formas de gestão de professores.
Tendências e tensões no trabalho docente: reflexões a partir da voz dos professores
Authors: Flores Maria Assunção
Published: November 2011

Neste artigo apresentamos um conjunto de reflexões sobre o trabalho docente a partir das vozes dos professores que participaram num estudo mais vasto em Portugal. Partindo de testemunhos de vários docentes e convocando a literatura existente neste domínio, analisamos um conjunto de dimensões e de tendências do trabalho docente, nomeadamente, a crescente burocracia, a intensificação e o controle sobre o trabalho dos professores; a agenda da prestação de contas e da performatividade e a cada vez maior vigilância e escrutínio público em relação ao trabalho das escolas e dos professores. Este texto baseia-se em dados de uma investigação em curso que procura analisar os efeitos das recentes medidas políticas, nomeadamente relativas à avaliação do desempenho e ao estatuto da carreira docente, no trabalho dos professores a partir de dados recolhidos em duas escolas portuguesas. O texto termina com algumas reflexões sobre os efeitos das recentes tendências no modo de estar e de viver a profissão docente, especialmente no que se refere à motivação para permanecer ou abandonar o ensino e à sua dimensão afectiva e emocional.
A ontologia do ato de avaliar
Authors: Zanardini João Batista
Published: November 2011

Este artigo problematiza os resultados educacionais apresentados quer por instrumentos nacionais de avaliação, quer por internacionais, os quais remetem a um suposto anacronismo da escola. De forma agregada à publicização desses resultados vem à tona a afirmação acerca da  ineficiência da escola em garantir condições satisfatórias de ensino e aprendizagem dos conteúdos, atitudes e habilidades tidas como necessárias ao bom funcionamento da sociedade. O artigo retoma os pressupostos ontológicos que embasam este processo de “mudança na permanência” que engloba as reformas do aparelho do Estado, com a  imposição do Estado avaliador, e o recrudescimento da relevância dos mecanismos de avaliação educacional em larga escala, sobretudo a partir de 1990. Discute os pressupostos ontológicos do processo de avaliação como constituintes do trabalho, bem como a caracterização ontológica atribuída a estes processos pela classe dominante, concluindo que se tratam de caracterizações de intencionalidades distintas, partem de projetos sociais distintos, e, portanto, têm em vista modelos de  homem distintos.