bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aldosterone Inactivates the Endothelin-B Receptor via a Cysteinyl Thiol Redox Switch to Decrease Pulmonary Endothelial Nitric Oxide Levels and Modulate Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Maron Bradley A. , Zhang Ying-Yi , White Kevin , Chan Stephen Y. , Handy Diane E. , Mahoney Christopher E. , Loscalzo Joseph , Leopold Jane A.
Published: July 2012

Background—

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized, in part, by decreased endothelial nitric oxide (NO
·
) production and elevated levels of endothelin-1. Endothelin-1 is known to stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) via the endothelin-B receptor (ET
B
), suggesting that this signaling pathway is perturbed in PAH. Endothelin-1 also stimulates adrenal aldosterone synthesis; in systemic blood vessels, hyperaldosteronism induces vascular dysfunction by increasing endothelial reactive oxygen species generation and decreasing NO
·
levels. We hypothesized that aldosterone modulates PAH by disrupting ET
B
-eNOS signaling through a mechanism involving increased pulmonary endothelial oxidant stress.

Methods and Results—

In rats with PAH, elevated endothelin-1 levels were associated with elevated aldosterone levels in plasma and lung tissue and decreased lung NO
·
metabolites in the absence of left-sided heart failure. In human pulmonary artery endothelial cells, endothelin-1 increased aldosterone levels via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α/steroidogenesis factor-1–dependent upregulation of aldosterone synthase. Aldosterone also increased reactive oxygen species production, which oxidatively modified cysteinyl thiols in the eNOS-activating region of ET
B
to decrease endothelin-1–stimulated eNOS activity. Substitution of ET
B
-Cys405 with alanine improved ET
B
-dependent NO
·
synthesis under conditions of oxidant stress, confirming that Cys405 is a redox-sensitive thiol that is necessary for ET
B
-eNOS signaling. In human pulmonary artery endothelial cells, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism with spironolactone decreased aldosterone-mediated reactive oxygen species generation and restored ET
B
-dependent NO
·
production. Spironolactone or eplerenone prevented or reversed pulmonary vascular remodeling and improved cardiopulmonary hemodynamics in 2 animal models of PAH in vivo.

Conclusions—

Our findings demonstrate that aldosterone modulates an ET
B
cysteinyl thiol redox switch to decrease pulmonary endothelium-derived NO
·
and promote PAH.
A controlled study of agoraphobia and the independent effect of virtual reality exposure therapy
Authors: Malbos Eric , Rapee Ronald M , Kavakli Manolya
Published: July 2012

Objectives:

Past controlled clinical trials centred on virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) for agoraphobia mostly used multicomponent therapy with success. However, the present paper aimed to evaluate the independent effect of VRET for agoraphobia.

Methods:

A controlled study involving 18 agoraphobic participants assigned to two groups: VRET only and VRET with cognitive therapy. Nine specific virtual environments were developed using an affordable game level editor.

Results:

Questionnaires, behavioural tests and physiological measures indicated a positive effect of VRET. Correlations supported the predictive value of presence towards treatment outcome. The addition of cognitive therapy did not provide significant additional benefit.

Conclusions:

Overall, the isolated effects of VRET did not seem to be significantly less than the effects of VRET combined with cognitive therapy. Future research should explore the use of other components in addition to cognitive therapy and VRET for agoraphobia as well as its possible use in patients’ homes.
Performing Citizenship
Authors: Arora Bimal , Ali Kazmi Syed Bahar
Published: July 2012

Firms are showing increasing interest in combining innovation and inclusive business models to contribute to sustainable community development. One framework to conceptualize such a business contribution is “corporate citizenship.” This article utilizes, extends, and critically reflects on the framework of corporate citizenship by identifying, explaining, and assessing the citizenship role toward sustainable community development that firms can perform. The article reviews a business model for delivering financial services to the rural communities in India. The business model is developed by a private firm “A Little World (ALW),” and the article argues that the firm and its sister not-for-profit organization Zero Mass Foundation (ZMF) perform a strategic bridge role between public sector organizations and rural communities and assist in achieving their respective developmental goals. Using this case study, the article argues that firms can act as corporate citizens through a strategic bridge role. In so doing, firms can change political and economic infrastructures by inducing institutional, governance, and cultural changes. While the article underlines the positive contributions, it also raises questions about the extension of market rationality in the public domain and its potential influence on governmental development policies.
Good Practice in Corporate Governance
Authors: Augustine Darline
Published: July 2012

This dissertation abstract and reflection essay presents the work of Dr. Darline Augustine. The dissertation examines variance in firm performance in the microfinance industry. The investigations unfold throughout six dissertation chapters, four of which are empirical. Each chapter illustrates the complex nature of the practice of corporate governance within microfinance firms, and the relationship of transparency to performance. In particular, the dissertation illustrates the influence of firm-level transparency—a proxy for good practice in corporate governance—and positive firm performance. The chapters focus primarily on financial performance and, and to a lesser extent, social performance is also examined. This extended abstract explains the research question, setting, and methods. The reflection essay in the appendix discusses the author’s journey in the research process as a junior scholar.
The Social Context of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Athanasopoulou Andromachi , Selsky John W.
Published: July 2012

This article examines the role of social context in corporate social responsibility (CSR) research. The authors direct attention to three major perspectives in organization studies—institutional, cultural, and cognitive—that bear on the social context and explore how these perspectives are used in CSR research. These perspectives are framed as representative of the levels at which CSR may be analyzed, and each perspective is associated with a certain level of social context: the institutional perspective relates to the external social context, the cultural perspective relates to the organizational level, and the cognitive perspective relates to the individual level. The authors demonstrate how the CSR field can benefit by combining or integrating multiple perspectives that bear on the social context, and by engaging in more explicit multilevel analysis of the social context within which CSR practicesunfold. Three promising avenues for future CSR research are outlined: social ecology, cross-sector social partnerships, and strategy-as-practice. The authors argue that these avenues transcend levels and perspectives (even allowing for the combination of the three schools) and offer the prospect of more context-sensitive CSR research.
A documentary analysis of HIV/AIDS education interventions in Ghana
Authors: Halabi Saamira , Smith William , Collins John , Baker David , Bedford Jason
Published: July 2012

Objective:

While the international donor community has spent millions on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) prevention through educational programmes, the quality of information in educational curricula is rarely analyzed. This study analyzes the content of prevention programmes, focusing on informational accuracy.

Design:

Curricula for this study were collected using a snowball sampling technique in which we first contacted bi-lateral donors, the country’s national AIDS coordinating agency, and the Ministry of Education to find out which organizations and agencies were actively working in the country and implementing HIV curricular interventions. Our final data set included 24 curricula: seven school-based, 15 adult-based, and two multi-purpose curricula (manuals or modules used in conjunction with other curricula or independently). Using Senderowitz and Kirby’s (2006)1 standards for curricula content as a guide, each curriculum was coded independently by two reviewers, who noted specific lines, sections, or images of the curriculum which were problematic.

Setting:

Ghana.

Method:

Documentary analysis of 24 curricula that are designed to teach youth and adults about HIV/AIDS.

Results:

We find one or more problems in each curriculum, including: (1) factual errors and omitted information; (2) oversimplified facts; (3) promotion of fear-based abstinence; (4) confusing condom information; (5) a presentation of infection as women’s problem; and (6) misrepresentation of individual risk.

Conclusion:

Even with increased financial resources being directed at HIV prevention and treatment, the quality of information found in school-based and adult prevention curricula remains poor. This analysis calls into question the effect of these interventions in ‘socially vaccinating’ against new infections.
Changes in children’s consumption of tomatoes through a school lunch programme developed by agricultural high-school students
Authors: Ishikawa Midori , Kubota Nozomi , Kudo Keita , Meadows Martin , Umezawa Atsuko , Otaa Toru
Published: July 2012

Objective:

The purpose of the study was to discover whether tomato consumption in elementary- and middle-school students could be increased through a school lunch programme developed by agricultural high-school students acting as peer educators.

Design:

The high-school lunch programme included the process of growing tomatoes and providing a newsletter on school lunches to elementary- and middle-school children. Agricultural high-school students were trained as peer educators.

Setting:

Six hundred and thirty-one students at 16 schools in Hokkaido, Japan, participated in the programme.

Method:

The evaluation survey items comprised questions about taste preference, eating motivation, and behaviours related to the high-school lunch programme and the usual school lunch. The analysis provided a comparison between a group of students who ate more tomatoes after the programme and a group who showed no change in eating preferences, and revealed factors affecting the increase in tomato consumption.

Results:

In all, 17% of the students started to eat more tomatoes after the programme than they had eaten previously. Among the students who ate more tomatoes, the ratio of answers on the choices ‘Tomatoes were delicious’, ‘I request high-school lunch again’, and ‘I want to eat high-school tomatoes at home’ was significantly higher than that among other students whose tomato intake did not increase. The most important factors affecting increased tomato consumption were ‘students’ tomatoes were delicious’.

Conclusion:

A school lunch programme developed by agricultural high-school students may be effective for increasing vegetable consumption in elementary- and middle-school students.
Reality-based learning: Outbreak, an engaging introductory course in public health and epidemiology
Authors: Calonge David Santandreu , Grando Danilla
Published: July 2012

Objective:

To develop a totally online reality-based course that engages students and enables the development of enhanced teamwork and report-writing skills.

Setting:

Outbreaks of infectious diseases impacts upon commerce, trade and tourism as well as placing strains on healthcare systems. A general course introducing university students to epidemiology and public health would help public education into the consequences of worldwide outbreaks.

Methods:

Scaffolding of course activities was used to enable students to build upon skill acquisition and development. Student feedback was used to continuously improve the course.

Results:

The course enables around 80 students per year to engage efficiently and effectively with the courseware. Student satisfaction was high and has improved with fine-tuning of the course.

Conclusions:

We have developed an effective team-based course that has high student engagement and satisfaction. The model could be used to effectively deliver other science-based courses online.
Can Issue Linkage Improve Treaty Credibility?
Authors: Poast Paul
Published: July 2012

Can issue linkage, the combining of multiple issues into a single agreement, enhance the credibility of an agreement? I use the alliance relations of buffer states (states located between two recently or currently warring rivals) to test the claim that issue linkage enhances compliance with treaty obligations. The alliance relations of buffer states create a “hard case” for treaty compliance because, by being prone to invasion and occupation, buffer states have difficulties inducing states to remain committed to an alliance agreement. Hence, if linkage provisions can enhance the credibility of alliance commitments for buffer states, then linkage provisions should improve treaty compliance in nearly any context. I find that buffer states in alliances with trade provisions experience fewer opportunistic violations of the alliance terms, avoid occupation and invasion at a higher rate, and experience fewer third-party attacks than buffer states in other alliance arrangements.
Plasma modification of Kevlar fabrics for ballistic applications
Authors: Sun Danmei , Chen Xiaogang
Published: July 2012

The currently used high-performance fiber materials for soft body armor have very low surface friction and this has become an issue in the effectiveness of ballistic energy absorption. In this study, non-polymerizing reactive plasma gas N2 and chemical vapor (CH3)2Cl2Si were employed to modify Kevlar fabric surface for the application of ballistic impact material. Scanning electron microscopy observations yield information about the surface effect of the fabrics after plasma treatment. The surface morphology of the treated fabrics was studied. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis was used to analyze the surface chemical properties of the treated samples. The yarn pulling-out test shows that the resistance to pulling out yarns from fabrics plasma-treated treated with N2 and (CH3)2Cl2Si plasma-treated fabric is increased 18% and 300% respectively, compared with the untreated Kevlar fabric. Finite element simulation results revealed that fabric with a higher surface coefficient of friction performs better in ballistic energy absorption.
A novel method of in situ chemical polymerization of polyaniline for synthesis of electrically conductive cotton fabrics
Authors: Patil Amol J , Deogaonkar Smita C
Published: July 2012

In the present work, a study of two-step in situ chemical polymerization of polyaniline (PANI) on cotton fabric was undertaken by employing the jig-dyeing principle. The important reactant parameters, such as monomer concentration, oxidant/monomer ratio, protonic acid concentration and the duration of polymerization, were studied. The structural and morphological features of the resultant fabric were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared–attenuated total reflectance and scanning electron microscopy studies. The electrical conductivity was expressed as both bulk and surface properties. With the present experimental set up, a minimum electrical surface resistivity of about 103 ohm/square was achieved. The present investigation revealed that key parameters, such as protonic acid concentration, oxidant/monomer ratio and the duration of polymerization, are influential at lower monomer concentrations. Further, the treatment method and fabric construction appear to have a predominant role in the deposition, thereby affecting the resultant conductivity. The PANI-coated cotton fabrics thus produced are suitable in application areas of static protection and sensors for smart textiles. The described method of in situ polymerization has a potential for scaling up for bulk production.
Improvement of electro-mechanical properties of strain sensors made of elastic-conductive hybrid yarns
Authors: Guo Li , Berglin Lena , Mattila Heikki
Published: July 2012

Fabric-based strain sensors have been developed using different technologies, among which flat knitting is one of the most effective and economical methods. However, knitted strain sensors are not often used in practical applications because the sensors usually exhibit large elastic hysteresis when they are deformed and subjected to stress during application. One possible approach to overcome these shortcomings is to introduce elastic properties at the yarn level by combining the conductive materials with elastic materials. In this paper, we demostrate a hybrid yarn made of a conductive yarn that winds around an elastic core yarn in a direct twisting device. The electro-mechanical properties of strain sensors knitted from the hybrid yarns were tested in order to characterize the sensors. This study consisted of two stages: the yarn preparation and the sensor characterization. In the first stage, two kinds of elastic core components (polyamide/Lycra and polyamide) and two kinds of conductive winding yarns (Bekinox BK50/1 and Bekinox BK50/2) were selected for twisting. The twisting was done with a constant twisting speed and four different numbers of twists. Mechanical properties, that is, the tenacity, force at break and elongation at break, were tested in order to determine the optimal parameters for producing the hybrid yarns. The results indicated that among the tested yarns those with a polyamide core and Bekinox BK50/1 winding yarns at 450 twist/meter and with a polyamide/Lycra core and Bekinox BK 50/2 winding yarns at 600 twist/meter had the best properties. These were thus selected as the materials for producing knitted strain sensors. In the second stage, electro-mechanical properties of the knitted strain sensors were determined under tensile stress and multi-cyclic tensile stress. The results show that the hybrid yarns can effectively enhance the electro-mechanical properties of the knitted strain sensors without compromising processiablity and comfortability.
Religion and Military Conscription
Authors: Røislien Hanne Eggen
Published: July 2012

The military benefits from fostering an “us-feeling” among its members. On what basis is this formed? Rooted in the discipline of religion, the following article explores how religion feeds into the selective conscription practices of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Combining legal documents with data gathered through interviews with thirty-four soldiers in a combat battalion, it is argued that the IDF’s conscription practices are sensitive to the contents of religion. The IDF applies a multifarious concept of religion with significant impact on the IDF’s ability to foster a sense of “us.” The IDF recruits draftees on the basis of a twofold definition of Judaism, either as an ethnic group or as a theological concept. Both definitions help determine whether one is drafted. Interviews with soldiers expand on this definition, drawing attention to the integrative as well as disintegrative consequences of this notion of religion within the IDF.
Military Experience in Elections and Perceptions of Issue Competence
Authors: Teigen Jeremy M.
Published: July 2012

An enduring assumption exists in the United States that past military service casts electoral candidates in a positive light. To demonstrate how voters understand candidates’ military experiences, it is necessary to understand how their attitudes about a candidate change when exposed to biographic information. This study uses an experimental design to evaluate whether voters see candidates with a military background as better able to handle defense and security issues, are more capable leaders, and whether voters express higher affect toward veteran candidates. Using manipulated television advertising and handbills from an actual election, along with variation of the party information about the candidate, this study finds that voters are unmoved in their impressions of leadership and their affect toward a candidate with military experience. However, potential voters report markedly higher evaluations of candidates’ ability to handle defense and security issues when exposed to the military cue, irrespective of party affiliation.
Relational-interdependent self-construal
Authors: Morry Marian M. , Kito Mie , Mann Simmi , Hill Lauren
Published: July 2012

Relational-interdependent self-construal (RISC) refers to the tendency to think of oneself in terms of close relationships. We examined how self-construal predicted cognitions and affect within friendships. When listing friends, individuals named friends whom they perceived to be similar to the self in RISC (Study 1), but this was not because it was harder to think of perceived dissimilar friends (Studies 1 and 2). However, perceptions of the friend’s RISC did not match the friend’s self-rating (Study 3). In regards to affect, all individuals reported higher friendship quality with perceived high RISC friends. These findings support the similarity-attraction hypothesis for individuals high in RISC. However, for individuals low in RISC, it is dissimilarity (i.e., high RISC friend) that predicts friendship quality.
‘Remind to move’: a pilot study on the effects of sensory cueing treatment on hemiplegic upper limb functions in children with unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Fong Kenneth NK , Jim Eska SW , Dong Vicky AQ , Cheung Hobby KY
Published: July 2012

Objective:

To investigate the effects of sensory cueing with repetitive practice on hemiplegic arm functions in children with unilateral cerebral palsy.

Design:

A single-group pre/post comparison.

Setting:

A special school for children with physical disabilities.

Subjects:

Eight children with unilateral cerebral palsy aged 6–18 years.

Interventions:

Participants were required to wear for three weeks a sensory cueing, non-activated wristwatch device and complete 5 hours of conventional therapy per week (treatment A). This was followed by three weeks of continuing conventional therapy and wearing the now activated wristwatch, which prompted the children to do predetermined exercises on the hemiplegic arm for 6 hours daily, 5 days per week, for three weeks (treatment B), and three weeks follow-up.

Main measures:

Assessments of arm efficiency, functional hand use and arm impairments were carried out at baseline (day before treatment A), posttest 1 (day after treatment A), posttest 2 (day after treatment B) and follow-up (three weeks after treatment B).

Results:

Arm efficiency as revealed by the Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test and the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency – but not actual arm use and grip strength – showed significant improvement after treatment B to follow-up (from 286.0 ± 73.9 to 191.9 ± 73.5, P = 0.002, and from 15.5 ± 5.0 to 18.1 ± 7.7, P = 0.021).

Conclusion:

This pilot study provides proof-of-concept data showing that a wearable device might be used to remind children with cerebral palsy to perform a set of predetermined arm exercises in order to promote hemiplegic arm function.
What’s at Stake in the Historical Turn? Theory, Practice and Phronēsis in International Relations
Authors: McCourt David M.
Published: July 2012

Taking issue with Hobson and Lawson’s rejection of the historical turn, this article argues that what is at stake in the turn is the type of knowledge of politics International Relations scholars should produce, and the relationship between theory and practice. The relevant issues are not, then, exhausted by answering the question ‘What is history in International Relations?’; instead, the turn forms part of a wider movement in the social sciences away from neo-positivism and its deficient vision of history. The article follows one line of thought on non-neo-positivist International Relations and its relationship to history that seeks to emphasise the centrality of historical knowledge to political praxis understood as practical wisdom or phronēsis. However, while a turn is thus to be welcomed, because the impact of International Relations knowledge lies ultimately in the relationship between the academy and politics, the stakes of the historical turn lie beyond International Relations, adequately historical or not.
Bony Adaptation of the Proximal Humerus and Glenoid Correlate Within the Throwing Shoulder of Professional Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Wyland Douglas J. , Pill Stephan G. , Shanley Ellen , Clark J.C. , Hawkins Richard J. , Noonan Thomas J. , Kissenberth Michael J. , Thigpen Charles A.
Published: July 2012

Background:

Elite throwing athletes have increased proximal humeral retrotorsion (HRT) and glenoid retroversion (GRV) in their throwing shoulders compared with their nonthrowing shoulders. These adaptive morphologic changes are thought to be independently protective against shoulder injury; however, their relationship to each other is poorly understood.

Purpose:

To determine if an association exists between HRT and GRV within the same shoulders of professional pitchers.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The HRT and GRV measurements were determined using published techniques in asymptomatic bilateral shoulders of 32 professional pitchers (mean age, 23 years). Three measurements for each variable were averaged, and the reliability of the techniques was verified. The relationship between HRT and GRV within the same shoulders was determined with Pearson correlation coefficients. Paired t tests were used to compare HRT and GRV between the throwing and nonthrowing shoulder. Simple ratios were calculated between HRT and GRV.

Results:

Humeral retrotorsion and GRV were both significantly greater on the throwing side compared with the nonthrowing side (HRT: throwing = 9.0° ± 11.4° and nonthrowing = 22.1° ± 10.7°, P < .001; GRV: throwing = 8.6° ± 6.0° and nonthrowing = 4.9° ± 4.8°, P = .001). Within the same shoulders, there was a statistically significant positive association between HRT and GRV on the throwing side ( r = 0.43, P = .016) but not on the nonthrowing side ( r = −0.13, P = .50). The HRT:GRV ratio was 2.3:1 for throwing shoulders and 7:1 for nonthrowing shoulders.

Conclusion:

The concurrent increases in dominant shoulder HRT and GRV were observed as a 2:1 “thrower’s ratio.” As this relationship was not observed on the nondominant shoulder, it suggests that bony adaptation of the proximal humerus and glenoid are coupled during skeletal development in the throwing shoulder. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Scapular Muscle Rehabilitation Exercises in Overhead Athletes With Impingement Symptoms
Authors: De Mey Kristof , Danneels Lieven , Cagnie Barbara , Cools Ann M.
Published: July 2012

Background:

Previous research has identified some specific exercises to correct scapular muscle balance and onset timing in healthy subjects. However, evidence for their effectiveness in overhead athletes with impingement symptoms has been lacking until now.

Hypothesis:

A 6-week exercise program consisting of previously selected exercises is able to improve muscle activation and onset timing during shoulder elevation. This program may also change pain and functionality levels in overhead athletes with mild impingement symptoms.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Forty-seven overhead athletes with mild impingement symptoms (25 men and 22 women) were enrolled in this study. Before and after the 6-week training program, the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) score was individually obtained and maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) values were determined by surface electromyography. Mean muscle activation levels, muscle ratio data, and muscle onset timing were assessed for the upper (UT), middle (MT), and lower (LT) trapezius and serratus anterior (SA) muscle during arm elevation in the scapular plane.

Results:

Forty participants completed the exercise program. The SPADI scores significantly decreased from 29.86 ± 17.03 during initial assessment to 11.7 ± 13.78 during postmeasurements ( P < .001). The 3 trapezius muscle parts showed increased MVIC values and decreased activation levels during arm elevation, whereas this was not the case for the SA muscle. After the training program, UT/SA significantly decreased, whereas UT/MT and UT/LT did not change ( P < .05). No differences in muscle timing between pre- and postmeasurements could be identified. The LT showed significant earlier activation compared with UT (−0.47; P < .001) and MT (−0.49; P < .001). The serratus anterior showed significant earlier activation compared with the UT (−0.74; P < .001), MT (−0.76; P < .001), and LT muscles ( F = 0.27; P = .046).

Conclusion:

This is the first longitudinal study to demonstrate that previously selected exercises (1) improve pain and function based on SPADI scores, (2) reduce relative trapezius muscle activation, and (3) alter UT/SA ratios. However, they were unable to change the timing of the scapular muscles during arm elevation when compared before and after a 6-week training program in overhead athletes with mild impingement symptoms.
Patterns of Use of Prophylaxis for Stress-Related Mucosal Disease in Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Frandah Wesam , Colmer-Hamood Jane , Nugent Kenneth , Raj Rishi
Published: July 2012

Background:

Morbidity associated with stress ulcer–related bleeding, the cost of medications, and the possible complications associated with stress ulcer prophylaxis are important considerations when prescribing prophylaxis. We prospectively studied the prescription patterns for stress ulcer prophylaxis in patients admitted to our ICU.

Methods:

We prospectively recorded the indications for stress ulcer prophylaxis and prescription patterns for use based on the American Society of Healthcare Pharmacists criteria and other indications for 99 new intensive care unit (ICU) admissions to a tertiary referral center.

Results:

In all 51 patients had no indication for stress ulcer prophylaxis, 32 had 1 indication, 14 had 2 indications, and 2 patients had 3 indications for receiving stress ulcer prophylaxis in the ICU. Eighty-two percent of patients without any indications received stress ulcer prophylaxis; 81% of patients with 1 indication, 79% of patients with 2 indication, and 50% of patients with 3 indications received stress ulcer prophylaxis. Overall, 53% of patients either received stress ulcer prophylaxis when none was indicated or did not receive stress ulcer prophylaxis when it was indicated. We also review the recent literature on stress-related mucosal disease and the use of prophylaxis for stress-related mucosal disease.

Conclusions:

Stress ulcer prophylaxis administration in this ICU is inconsistent and includes both underutilization and overutilization. Educating physicians and implementing hospital protocols could improve use patterns.
It Starts With Me
Authors: Gulbrandsen Cari L. , Walsh Christine A.
Published: July 2012

This article reports on a study of the lived experiences of 10 women who participated in feminist activism within a grassroots feminist organization. The study analyzed the women’s narratives to determine how power shapes their subjective experiences in feminist activism. Their narratives were categorized into two broad themes: the intrapersonal locus of power and the relational locus of power. The themes refer to how women mediate power in practice and how their experiences with power are interconnected with relationships in the collective. The women in the study elaborated on the role of power in their own agency and in tensions, such as privilege and oppression.
Using Multimedia Tools to Support Teacher Candidates’ Learning
Authors: Kennedy Michael J. , Ely Emily , Thomas Cathy Newman , Pullen Paige C. , Newton Jennifer R. , Ashworth Kristen , Cole Mira T. , Lovelace Shelly P.
Published: July 2012

Content Acquisition Podcasts (CAPs), created using Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, are a form of instructional technology that can deliver critical course content and be used by teacher educators to conserve limited face-to-face instructional time. In this study, the authors investigate whether the sequence of instruction for CAP exposure (preview or review) paired with textbook reading affected knowledge gains on topics related to students with disabilities. They randomly assign preservice teacher candidates from two large public universities to one of three conditions: (a) CAP exposure preceding reading, (b) CAP exposure following reading, and (c) reading with graphic organizer/outline alone. A 40-item multiple-choice pre- and posttest measured participant knowledge of two topics: “Learning Disabilities” and “High-Functioning Autism.” Students in both CAP groups significantly outperformed students from the Text-Only group on both experiments, but order of CAP exposure did not result in significant differences in learning. The authors describe implications for teacher preparation programs regarding how to create and implement theoretically sound technology-based instructional materials, such as CAPs.
New Directions for Water Management in Indian Agriculture
Authors: Ackermann Richard
Published: July 2012

Despite several decades of large and expensive government programs to expand traditional surface irrigation systems, groundwater irrigated area has continued to grow inexorably—even in command areas of canals and tanks. Groundwater now irrigates more than double the area irrigated by surface water. The alarming drop in groundwater tables in parts of Northwestern and of Peninsular India, and the apparent high public cost of subsidizing the electricity for ground water pumping, has led to calls for limiting groundwater abstraction and further developing surface water systems. This reaction to the ground water challenge misses the point. The debate should not be about whether surface water schemes are preferable to groundwater use, or more generally how to build new infrastructure to increase water supply. Instead, the question is how to deliver a reliable service to improve agricultural productivity. Further surface water development (reservoirs, canals) will not reduce demand for ground water unless it can meet the requirement for “just-in-time” water without discriminating against tail-enders and/or small farmers.
Progress in Infant Health in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Hokama Tomiko , Binns Colin
Published: July 2012

The infant mortality rate (IMR) and neonatal mortality rate (NMR) defined as the number of infant and newborn deaths per 1000 live births, respectively, are widely accepted as population indicators of the level of perinatal and postnatal health. Since the end of World War II, Japan has made substantial progress in reducing its IMR and NMR. This resulted from improving living standards and the provision of universal maternal and child health care (MCH) services. Okinawa, the island prefecture that is the furthest from mainland Japan, had the third highest IMR and the highest low-birth-weight rate (LBW) among all prefectures when its statistics were integrated into Japan in 1973. Even though the LBW rate in Okinawa has remained higher than the all-Japan average, Okinawa has shown a considerable improvement in IMR and NMR. The aim is to review the trends in IMR, NMR, and LBW in Japan and Okinawa and to discuss sociodemographic trends, economics, and the provision of health care services. The IMR and NMR in Okinawa decreased during that time from 14.8 to 2.4 and from 7.5 to 0.8, respectively. The LBW rate decreased until the mid-1980s, but since then it has increased to 11.5 (Okinawa) and 9.6 (Japan) in 2009. Okinawa’s public health and primary health care model for infants has been very successful and may be applicable to child health in island nations of the Asia-Pacific region.
Ethical Issues in Infant Feeding After Disasters
Authors: Binns Colin W. , Lee Mi Kyung , Tang Li , Yu Chuan , Hokama Tomiko , Lee Andy
Published: July 2012

In the aftermath of many disasters the silence is punctuated by the crying of infants, hungry infants. The aim of this paper is to discuss ethical issues in feeding infants after disasters. The Asia Pacific region generates 25% of the world’s GDP, but experiences 45% of natural disasters and 42% of the economic losses due to disasters. The region has 61% of the world’s population, but 86% of the population affected by disasters. Breastfeeding, exclusive to six months and continuing thereafter, is important for growth and the health of the infant in the short term and later in life. In most natural disasters, mothers and infants will both suffer, but in some disasters, such as earthquakes and building collapses, infants can survive in small spaces. Infants separated from mothers require a wet nurse (rarely available) or feeding with infant formula and sterile water. Formula companies often donate supplies of infant formula but distribution should follow ethical principles. Mothers who are injured or short of food can still continue breastfeeding and don’t need formula. Where formula must be used, health workers need to follow the highest ethical standards to avoid promoting infant formula to vulnerable communities in the post recovery phase.
In utero infection of a calf by Saksenaea erythrospora resulting in neonatal abomasitis and dermatitis
Authors: Lawhon Sara D. , Corapi Wayne V. , Hoffmann Aline Rodrigues , Libal Melissa C. , Alvarez Eduardo , Guarro Josep , Wickes Brian L. , Fu Jianmin , Thompson Elizabeth H. , Sutton Deanna A.
Published: July 2012

Saksenaea erythrospora is a filamentous fungus belonging to the order Mucorales. Cases of cutaneous mucormycosis caused by Saksenaea spp. have previously been reported in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed people. A premature, 1-day-old bull calf from Texas with numerous plaque-like and ulcerative lesions in the skin was found at necropsy to have multiple areas of mycotic dermatitis and abomasitis. Fungal culture of the skin followed by morphological characterization and genetic analysis identified the etiologic agent as S. erythrospora.
Enteritis in an alpaca (Vicugna pacos) associated with a potentially novel adenovirus
Authors: Twomey David F. , Grierson Sylvia S. , Martelli Francesca , Higgins Robert J. , Jeffrey Martin
Published: July 2012

Adenovirus-associated enteritis was diagnosed by histopathology of small intestine in a 2-year-old alpaca ( Vicugna pacos). Electron microscopy confirmed intracytoplasmic and intranuclear adenoviral particles within enterocytes. Nucleic acid was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue sections, and a pan-adenovirus nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was employed to target a partial sequence of the polymerase gene. The PCR product (321 bp) was cloned and sequenced. Comparison of the nucleotide sequence against the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) nucleotide database demonstrated 68% identity with the isolates Canine adenovirus 1 and Bovine adenovirus 3. Comparison of the predicted amino acid sequence against the NCBI database demonstrated 75% identity with Bovine adenovirus 3. Phylogenetic analysis supported the relatively close relationship of this isolate to Bovine adenovirus 3, but the alpaca isolate was sufficiently distant to be considered a potentially novel adenovirus for this species.
Within-day repeatability for absolute quantification of Lawsonia intracellularis bacteria in feces from growing pigs
Authors: Pedersen Ken Steen , Pedersen Klaus H. , Hjulsager Charlotte , Larsen Lars Erik , Ståhl Marie , Stege Helle , Angen Øystein , Nielsen Jens Peter
Published: July 2012

Absolute quantification of Lawsonia intracellularis by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is now possible on a routine basis. Poor repeatability of quantification can result in disease status misclassification of individual pigs when a single fecal sample is obtained. The objective of the current study was to investigate overall variation within a day for fecal numbers of L. intracellularis bacteria determined by real-time PCR in growing pigs. From each of 30 pigs with an infection of L. intracellularis, 5 fecal samples were collected within 1 day. A total of 150 fecal samples were obtained and subjected to quantitative PCR (qPCR) testing. Mean fecal dry matter content was 14.3% (standard deviation = 4.5%). Two pigs (6.7%) alternated between being L. intracellularis qPCR positive and negative. For 28 pigs, the excreting levels of L. intracellularis were within the dynamic range of the qPCR assay at all sampling points. For these 28 pigs, the mean excretion level of L. intracellularis was 6.1 log10 bacteria/g feces (standard deviation = 1.2 log10 bacteria/g feces). The maximum observed difference between 2 fecal samples from the same pig was 1.1 log10 bacteria/g feces. The average standard deviation for individual pigs was 0.27 log10 bacteria/g feces. The average coefficient of variation within pigs was 0.04, ranging from 0.006 to 0.08. The results imply that absolute quantification of L. intracellularis by qPCR has acceptable repeatability within 1 day. However, a population-specific proportion of pigs alternating between positive and negative test results must be expected.
Ethics and Research Among Persons With Disabilities in Long-Term Care
Authors: Morrisey Barbara
Published: July 2012

In this article, I reveal the arguments used to gain ethics approval to do research among persons with disabilities in adult residential care in New Brunswick and the specific ways I planned to act in their best interests. I also discuss the unexpected dilemmas encountered in the field and my efforts to resolve them. These dilemmas included determining the capacity of the persons in care to assent to be interviewed, addressing the propensity for acquiescence, dealing with anonymity and confidentiality issues, finding the optimum contexts for interviews, preparing participants for when I would leave the field, negotiating full disclosure as the mother of an adult with disabilities in long-term care, and ensuring that no persons under the auspices of the Office of the Public Trustee in New Brunswick participated in this research. I conclude that specific efforts should continue to be made to include persons with disabilities in future research.
Talking With Others About Stigmatized Health Conditions
Authors: Jackson Courtney B. , Botelho Elizabeth M. , Welch Lisa C. , Joseph Journel , Tennstedt Sharon L.
Published: July 2012

We investigated the influence of social ties on symptom management and help seeking, using urinary symptoms as a case study. Talking with others about these symptoms was common and both facilitated and hindered symptom management and help seeking. In some cases, talking with others resulted in gaining a sense of identification with others suffering the same symptoms, receiving assistance to ease the burden of symptoms, obtaining suggestions to help manage symptoms, and learning information about available treatments. In other cases, talking with others served to normalize symptoms to such an extent that individuals saw no need to manage their symptoms differently.
Providing Meaningful Care
Authors: Jordan Joanne , McKenna Hugh , Keeney Sinead , Cutcliffe John , Stevenson Chris , Slater Paul , McGowan Iain
Published: July 2012

Little is known about young suicidal men’s preferences for care. Using a broad interpretive approach, we interviewed 36 formerly suicidal young men in a study addressing the development and provision of mental health services. Our analysis yielded three core categories: widening access and bolstering proactive outreach, on becoming a man, and equipping young men for future challenges. Collectively, these categories suggest key features and processes of appropriate service configuration and clinical care: (a) services that reach out proactively serve to encourage young men’s initial and ongoing engagement; (b) care delivered over the long term ensures a necessary focus on a meaningful future life; (c) mental health professionals (MHPs) are centrally involved alongside significant others, including those with personal experience of suicide; and (d) the development of a vital interpersonal connection is based on MHPs actively communicating their empathy, open-mindedness, and interest in a young man’s unique biography.
Successful Linkage Between Formal and Informal Care Systems
Authors: Carpentier Normand , Grenier Amanda
Published: July 2012

Health interventions are currently being revamped to address the specific needs of chronic illness and population aging. In this context, focus has increasingly turned to Alzheimer-type dementia, an illness that is considered to mobilize a large number of social actors into long-term involvement of varying intensity. Linkage problems between families and professional systems have been well documented, yet the reasons for this remain relatively unexplored. In this article, we outline how we used social network data and narrative methods to better understand the linkage processes between formal and informal care systems. We present the trajectories of four caregivers of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease who were able to establish relationships with resources outside the family. In each of the cases, the dimensions of trust and recognition were central to establishing and maintaining supportive relationships, and must therefore be understood in light of social network dynamics and the broader environment. Although preliminary, this study contributes to the state of knowledge on linkage problems by proposing “bottom-up” solutions that are client centered.
Leukocytes May Have 2 Opposing Effects in Intravenous rtPA Treatment for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Nomura Eiichi , Naka Hiromitsu , Wakabayashi Shinichi , Kajikawa Hiroshi , Matsumoto Masayasu
Published: July 2012

We hypothesized that leukocytes have 2 opposing effects on patients with ischemic stroke treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA). Patients with ischemic stroke treated with rtPA were divided into 2 groups using the peripheral leukocyte count: high leukocyte group (HLG) and low leukocyte group (LLG) and were evaluated with the National Institutes of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) during the first 24 hours. We defined significant improvement (SI) as NIHSS improving by more than 50% from the baseline, and deterioration following improvement (DFI) as the achievement of SI within 24 hours but its subsequent loss at 24 hours. Fifty-three patients were enrolled, and the rate of SI within 24 hours was higher in HLG than in LLG (85.2% vs 42.3%, P = .0011). However, the rate of DFI was significantly higher in HLG than in LLG (29.6% vs 7.7%, P = .0413). We found that leukocytes might have not only deleterious but also beneficial effects in intravenous rtPA treatment.
Analyzing the Effects of Platelet Gel on Knee Osteoarthritis in the Rat Model
Authors: Guner Savas , Buyukbebeci Orhan
Published: July 2012

Platelet gel (PG) includes concentrated dose of growth factors which plays role in physiological processes of healing. The goal of this study is to evaluate repairing effects of intra-articular injection of PG use in a rat model of knee osteoarthritis (OA). A total of 20 rats were randomly distributed into a PG group and a control group. Both the groups were induced OA in knee joints with intra-articular formaline injection. The rats in the PG group and the control group were injected in the knee joint with PG and 0.9% NaCl solution, respectively. Two weeks after last injections, all rats were sacrificed by ether asphyxiation. Tissue samples were obtained from the knee joints and were examined histopathologically. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups regarding cartilage healing ( P > .05). We were unable to determine any beneficial or harmful effects of PG on joint cartilage healing in OA.