bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 on bone formation in the acute distraction osteogenesis of rat mandibles
Authors: Issa João Paulo Mardegan , Do Nascimento Cássio , Lamano Teresa , Iyomasa Mamie Mizusaki , Sebald Walter , De Albuquerque Jr Rubens Ferreira
Published: August 2009

Background: Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a method of producing new bone directly from the osteotomy site by gradual traction of the divided bone fragments.

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate histomorphometrically whether acute DO would constitute a viable alternative to the conventional continuous distraction treatment and also to verify the capacity of a recombinant human BMP (rhBMP‐2) associated with monoolein gel to stimulate bone formation in the acute distraction process.

Materials and methods: Forty‐eight Wistar rats were assigned to three groups: Group 1, treated at a conventional continuous distraction rate (0.5 mm/day), Group 2, treated with acute distraction of 2.5 mm at the time of the surgical procedure, and Group 3, subjected to acute distraction associated with rhBMP‐2. The animals from each experimental group were killed at the end of the second or fourth post‐operative weeks and the volume fraction of newly formed bone trabeculae was estimated in histological images by a differential point‐counting method.

Results: The results showed that after 2 and 4 weeks, bone volumes in the rhBMP‐2 group were significantly higher than in the other groups (P<0.05), but no significant difference was observed in the volume fraction of newly formed bone between the continuous and acute DO groups.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the study indicates that rhBMP‐2 can enhance the bone formation at acute DO, which may potentially reduce the treatment period and complications related to the distraction procedure.
HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS analysis of body odor to test the efficacy of foot deodorant formulations
Authors: Caroprese Alessandro , Gabbanini Simone , Beltramini Claudia , Lucchi Elena , Valgimigli Luca
Published: August 2009

Background/purpose: Foot malodor is mostly due to short‐chain fatty acids produced by bacterial metabolism of eccrine sweating. We aimed to develop a protocol for an objective (instrumental) efficacy evaluation of foot deodorant formulations.

Methods: Head‐space solid‐phase microextractions of target fatty acids from the feet of six healthy volunteers were analyzed by GC‐MS. A comparative analysis of the treated vs. the untreated foot was performed in each subject after washing the feet with a physiologic solution and incubating at 36 °C for 24–72 h in tryptic soy agar growth medium.

Results: Acetic, butyric, isobutyric and isovaleric acids were identified as the main contributors to foot malodor in the majority of volunteers. Propionic, valeric and isocaproic acids were also detected in some subjects. Comparative analysis according to the protocol developed showed a statistically significant (P<0.01) reduction of target fatty acids ranging from −26.6% to −77.0%.

Conclusion: The protocol developed is a convenient, sensitive and non‐invasive method to test the efficacy of foot deodorant formulations in human volunteers.
Preschool children in need of special support: prevalence of traditional disability categories and functional difficulties
Authors: Lillvist A , Granlund M
Published: August 2009

Aim:  To investigate the prevalence of children who are in need of special support in the total population of children attending preschools (CA 1–6) in two Swedish counties, and the functional problems exhibited by the children in relation to demographical and environmental factors in the preschool context.

Method:  Survey distributed to (N = 1138) preschools in two Swedish counties.

Results:  The majority of children perceived by preschool teachers and in need of special support were undiagnosed children with functional difficulties related to speech, language and interaction with peers.

Conclusion:  Undiagnosed and diagnosed children share the same type of difficulties. Thus, in estimating the prevalence of children in need of special support in a preschool context, traditional disability categories capture only a small proportion of the children experiencing difficulties. Therefore, a functional approach in studies of children in need of special support is recommended.
Species‐specific disturbance tolerance, competition and positive interactions along an anthropogenic disturbance gradient
Authors: Villarreal‐Barajas Tania , Martorell Carlos
Published: August 2009

Question:As it has been found that stress promotes positive interactions mediated by physical amelioration of the environment, is it possible that interactions may turn positive with increasing chronic anthropogenic disturbance (CAD) intensity? Also, is it possible that species that do not tolerate disturbance may require environmental amelioration by their neighbours in disturbed areas, whereas tolerant species may not?

Location:The semi‐arid grassland in Concepción Buenavista, Oaxaca, southern Mexico.

Methods:We assessed interaction intensity and importance through a neighbour removal experiment along a CAD gradient for three species differing in disturbance tolerance. Water potential was monitored on vegetated and bare soil.

Results:A shift from competitive effects in low CAD sites to positive interactions in degraded sites was found. The disturbance‐tolerant species did not respond to CAD, whereas the less tolerant species changed its interactions drastically in terms of growth and reproduction. The species with medium tolerance had an intermediate response. Neighbours promoted germination in all species. Vegetation removal reduced soil humidity.

Conclusions:Positive interactions seemingly resulted from the amelioration of the abiotic stresses induced by vegetation removal. The dependence on neighbours to germinate, grow, or reproduce suggests that if CAD eliminates the plant cover, vegetation will hardly recover. Irreversible changes are known to occur in communities where positive interactions predominate, but CAD may set the conditions for irreversible shifts even in communities where interactions are normally competitive.
Attitudes Toward Guidelines in Finnish Primary Care Nursing: A Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Alanen Seija , Kaila Minna , Välimäki Maritta ,   for the ECCE Study Group
Published: August 2009

Background: Evidence‐based clinical guidelines have attracted international interest as tools for improving the quality of health care. Attitudes toward these guidelines are of great importance because attitudes are proven to be important predictors of guideline use. Attitudes are also believed to be shaped by perceptions of others, which makes the role of organizational implementation interventions interesting.

Aims: This article describes primary care nurses’ attitudes toward guidelines among Finnish primary care nurses and the associations between attitudes, implementation interventions, and guideline use.

Methods: This study was a cross‐sectional survey using postal questionnaires. Participants (N = 409) were primary care nurses working in outpatient services of primary health care centers in Finland. They were selected for the study from two groups of Finnish health centers representing contrasting implementation styles, for example, disseminator and implementer health centers (N = 32).

Results: Responses were received from 327 nurses. In general, nurses’ attitudes toward guidelines were positive, especially those concerning the reliability and usefulness of guidelines. The utilization of any implementation intervention included in the questionnaire was associated with more positive attitudes. In addition, nurses working in health centers that used an active implementation strategy as opposed to a disseminator strategy also felt that others in their organization rated the guidelines more positively and that guidelines were more easily available. Further, nurses who were familiar or very familiar with the guidelines had more positive attitudes toward them. Attitudes were also associated with self‐reported guideline use.

Conclusions: The evidence‐based guidelines were accepted as a reliable source of advice in patient care in Finnish primary care. It seems that implementation interventions improve attitudes toward guidelines and enhance guideline use. These interventions might also be important from another point of view; they presumably improve familiarity with guidelines, which was also associated with guideline use.
Relationship between assertiveness and burnout among nurse managers
Authors: SUZUKI Eiko , SAITO Miyuki , TAGAYA Akira , MIHARA Rieko , MARUYAMA Akiko , AZUMA Tomomi , SATO Chifumi
Published: August 2009

Aim: We aimed to clarify the relationship between assertiveness and burnout among nurse managers at university hospitals.

Methods: The directors at three university hospitals agreed to cooperate with our study. During a one‐month period from May to June 2007, a self‐administered questionnaire was distributed to 203 nurse managers (head and sub‐head nurses). The Japanese version of the Rathus Assertiveness Schedule (J‐RAS) and the Japanese version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were used as scales. Burnout was operationally defined as a total MBI score in the highest tertile.

Results: Valid responses were obtained from 172 nurse managers. The mean J‐RAS score of the burnout group (−14.3) was significantly lower than that of the non‐burnout group (−3.3). Responses about work experience and age showed no significant group difference. Total MBI score was inversely correlated with J‐RAS score (R = −0.30,P < 0.01). Multiple logistic regression analyses indicated a decrease in the risk of burnout by 26% (0.74 times) for every 10 point increase in the J‐RAS score, and by 60% (0.40 times) for greater satisfaction with own care provision.

Conclusions: The results suggest that increasing assertiveness and satisfaction with own care provision contributes to preventing burnout among Japanese nurse managers.
BROWNING DEVELOPMENT IN WINE‐LIKE LIQUID MODEL MATRICES: DEPENDENCE ON PHENOLIC, FE(III) AND SO2 CONCENTRATIONS
Authors: GALUSKA SERGIU , MAKRIS DIMITRIS P. , KEFALAS PANAGIOTIS
Published: August 2009

The development of browning as a function of basic compositional parameters, including phenolics, Fe

3+
and SO2, was studied on the basis of white wine‐like model matrices. The influence of these three factors was approached through the implementation of a 23 full factorial design and response surface methodology. The model implemented produced a satisfactory fitting of the data (R2 = 0.94, P = 0.0136). The second order equation that was extracted out of the model indicated that the concentration of the phenolic substrate is the major determinant in the onset of A420 (browning), whereas the role of either Fe3+ or SO2 was less pronounced. The outcome of the study was discussed with regard to the applicability of the model established on more complex mixtures and real matrices (white wines).

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Browning development during storage of white wines is a serious defect, with important consequences to the quality and eventually the marketability of these commodities. To date, the examinations pertaining to the clarification of factors that can affect browning were based on rather unilateral assessment, while it is generally accepted that browning depends on several compositional parameters, which render the phenomenon a particular complexity. In this view, the implementation of factorial design with respect to investigating in parallel several factors pertaining to browning development becomes imminent. Thus, the establishment of models on such a sound experimental basis is expected to provide a reliable background for more accurate and thorough evaluation, with a potential direct industrial applicability.
EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE AND WATER ACTIVITY ON THE SORPTION HEAT OF WHEY AND YOGURT POWDER SPRAY WITHIN THE TEMPERATURE RANGE 20–40C
Authors: STENCL JIRI , JANSTOVA BOHUMILA , DRACKOVA MICHAELA
Published: August 2009

Moisture sorption isotherms of whey and yogurt powder spray in the temperature range of 20–40C and water activity from 0.4 to 0.99 were determined using gravimetric method. Five sorption models were evaluated. The Henderson's and Chung–Pfost's equation gave the best fit for sorption data of whey and yogurt powder spray, respectively. The isosteric heat of sorption was defined and then calculated using corresponding sorption model and Clausius–Clapeyron equation. An exponential function fitted the experimental heat of sorption values at various moisture contents (MCs) for both milk powder products. The curves on diagrams show that the sorption heat decreases when the MC is increased. Calculated values decreased, 47.03 kJ/mol and 46.37 kJ/mol for whey and yogurt powder spray, respectively, to the values approaching the heat of vaporization of pure water. Values of the heat of desorption were higher than those of adsorption; the difference increases with the MC decrease.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Heat of sorption is a valuable tool for food scientists and technologists because it shows, usually in a graphical form, the energy consumption for water desorption and adsorption in the specific temperature range and furthermore the temperature dependence of water activity (Aw). Values of heat of sorption, which approach the heat of vaporization of pure water, are also indicative of free moisture content (MC) in the material. Whey and yogurt powder spray are important spray dryer products. They are significant export articles, too. The minimal storage time of these foods is commonly longer than 1 year. To guarantee the long‐term quality of these spray dryer products means to analyze and to monitor in practice their basic thermodynamic parameters such as Aw and temperature or heat of sorption, MC and parameters of near ambient air, too.
RECOVERY OF PROTEINS FROM SILVER CARP BY‐PRODUCTS WITH ENZYMATIC HYDROLYSIS AND REDUCTION OF BITTERNESS IN HYDROLYSATE
Authors: DUAN ZHEN‐HUA , WANG JU‐LAN , YI MEI‐HUA , YIN AN‐QI
Published: August 2009

The by‐products of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) filleting were hydrolyzed to extract protein to reduce the environmental problems caused by the wastes from filleting and to increase the economical values of silver carp processing. Enzymatic hydrolysis of silver carp by‐products from filleting and subsequent mechanism research of bitterness reduction in hydrolysate were performed in this paper. First, the effects of various enzymatic treatments with neutral protease, papain, protamex, Flavourzyme, neutrase and papain combination (NPC) and neutrase and flavourzyme combination (NFC) protease on the degree of hydrolysis (DH), the degree of solubilization of protein and the bitter taste value were compared; the NFC was found to be the best. Second, on the basis of orthogonal tests, the optimal hydrolysis condition was done with 0.5% of the NFC at pH 7.5 and 50C. Finally, the effects of two pretreatments including heating and fat removing on DH were investigated. Results showed that these two pretreatments were not beneficial to enzymatic hydrolysis of silver carp by‐products.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

More than 50% of total fishery products were discarded as inedible by‐products every year in China. We have developed a technology for recovery of proteins from the by‐products of silver carp filleting using enzymatic hydrolysis. The degree of solubilization of protein was 82.4% and bitter taste value of hydrolysates was less than 1.0 (meaning hardly any bitterness). The technology can not only save the valued protein resources in the by‐products of fish processing but can also be used to process other similar fish by‐products to reduce the environmental problems caused by the wastes from filleting through being improved slightly, and increase the economical values of fishery products processing.
MULTICRITERIA OPTIMIZATION OF MULTIPRODUCT BATCH CHEMICAL PROCESS USING GENETIC ALGORITHM
Authors: MOKEDDEM D. , KHELLAF A.
Published: August 2009

Optimal design problems are widely known by their multiple performance measures that are often competing with each other. In this paper, an optimal multiproduct batch chemical plant design is presented. The design is first formulated as a multiobjective optimization problem, to be solved using the well‐suited nondominating sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA‐II). The NSGA‐II has the capability to achieve fine tuning of variables in determining a set of nondominating solutions distributed along the Pareto front in a single run of the algorithm. The NSGA‐II ability to identify a set of optimal solutions provides the decision maker with a complete picture of the optimal solution space to gain better and appropriate choices. The effectiveness of NSGA‐II method with multiobjective optimization problem is illustrated through a carefully referenced example.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The inherent dynamic nature of batch processes allows for their ability to handle variations in feedstock and product specifications, and provides the flexibility required for multiproduct or multipurpose facilities. They are thus best suited for the manufacture of low‐volume, high‐value products, such as specialty chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agricultural, food and consumer products, and most recently the constantly growing spectrum of biotechnology‐enabled products. Batch processing in the food industry has some unit operations, such as panning, whipping (emulsifying), and the pulling of taffy, which are not too often used in other industries, as well as other operations,such as blending, tabletting (including granulation) and lyophilization, which are common in other industries. Reduced time to market, lower production costs and improved flexibility are all critical success factors for batch processes.
RHEOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SUSPENSIONS OF SUCROSE CRYSTALS IN SATURATED SUCROSE SOLUTIONS
Authors: DE SOUZA ANA CRISTINA , TELIS‐ROMERO JAVIER , TELIS VÂNIA REGINA NICOLETTI
Published: August 2009

Suspensions formed by saturated sucrose solutions were analyzed at different temperatures (0 ≤ T ≤ 65C) and with different added fractions (0.005 ≤ φ ≤ 0.40) of known size sucrose crystals (0.163 ≤ dp ≤ 1.26 mm). Saturated sucrose solutions, taken as the suspension dispersant mean, were rheologically characterized using a concentric‐cylinder rheometer and showed Newtonian behavior. The crystal suspensions were rheologically evaluated by using a mixer‐type rheometer constituting an anchor impeller coupled to a rotational rheometer, also known as a mixer‐type rheometer. The studied crystal suspensions also showed Newtonian behavior. Theoretical and semiempirical models were used to describe the correlation between suspension relative viscosity and crystal volumetric fraction. The best results were obtained using the Krieger and Dougherty, and the Mooney model, resulting in values of intrinsic viscosity, (η), and maximum packing fraction, φm, compatible with data reported for coarse concentrated suspensions of nonspherical particles.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Rheological follow‐up of dynamic systems may be useful for a wide variety of applications where there is a manifest interest in studying the rheological evolution of a medium under controlled conditions. In crystallization processes, nucleation and growth of crystals modify the system rheological properties that, when measured during the process, make possible the determination of processing rates in function of operational conditions. Viscosity is important in the work of crystallizers because of its influence in heattransfer rates. Knowledge of viscosity allows sizing of pumps, pipes and also calculation of the necessary torque for crystallizers in order to prevent super sizing of equipment. Fluid viscosity is also fundamental in the characterization of flow as well as in modeling mass and heat transfer processes involved in several unit operations used in food industry.
MODELING HEAT EXCHANGER PERFORMANCE FOR NON‐NEWTONIAN FLUIDS
Authors: ASTERIADOU KONSTANTIA , HASTING A.P.M. , BIRD M.R. , MELROSE JOHN
Published: August 2009

The flow of a shear‐thinning food product in a tube‐in‐tube‐in‐tube (TnTnT) heat exchanger (HE ) is modeled with a CFD (computational fluid dynamics) commercial code, FLUENT 6.1. Results are compared with in‐line industrial measurements. The heating medium was pressurized hot water in counter current flow and constant wall temperature. The equipment was modeled in five meshed sections: three TnTnT heat exchange domains and two 180° bends that connect them. Good agreement was obtained between measured and predicted values of the product outlet temperature at the end of the process. Agreement on temperature profiles in the different sections of the heater, in the center of the flow, was generally poor. Modeled temperature was higher at the outlet of the bend compared with the inlet indicating that mixing took place. Path lines of massless particles that follow the flow show a racetrack effect; with the closer the stream to the inner wall, the sooner it reaches the outlet. Predicted values of shear stress show higher levels on the internal wall, which may have an impact on potential product damage, especially for heat sensitive products.

Understanding of the flow regime and temperature distribution profile in a complicated geometry such as a TnTnT HE, with the use of CFD, can lead to more efficient processes and more confidence in validating them.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This work describes the difficulties of validation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models based on in‐line measurements. It also indicates the importance of accurate monitoring methods in the food processing in order to ensure efficiency. CFD can contribute in understanding food flows and processes such as heat transfer in an enclosed domain and determine a better equipment design and selection of control points. Product and process quality can be improved with minimum cost and time investment. Physical and engineering phenomena that take place can be identified and used in favor of the process and the factory.
ROLE OF MODEL PARTICLE SHAPE IN DISCRETE ELEMENT MODELS OF BED STRUCTURE IN CONTAINERS
Authors: ABBASPOUR‐FARD MOHAMMAD HOSSEIN , EMADI BAGHER , KHOJASTEHPOUR MEHDI
Published: August 2009

A container comprising 5,000 particles was simulated to investigate the role of particle shape on the bed structure of particulate materials. The effect of particle shape on the packing structure of granular beds was investigated in terms of bed height, the distribution of solid fraction, coordination number and the force acting at the bottom of the container. The solid fraction of the beds, which ranged from 0.7–0.9 for spherical particles and 0.6–0.8 for elongated particles, shows a compacted structure for beds of spherical particles. The average bed's solid fraction was 0.825 and 0.750 for beds of spherical and elongated particles, respectively. The overall reduction in the average solid fraction was about 8% as aspect ratio of particles changed from 1 to 4. The solid fraction frequency distribution of the beds implied a wider variety of void shape and size for elongated particles. There was also a significant difference between the coordination number of spherical particles and nonspherical particles. The coordination number was 4.7 and 3.6 for spherical and elongated particles, respectively. However, the change in the magnitude of coordination number was greater (15.1%) in between beds of spherical and nonspherical particles (particles of aspect ratio 2), than in between beds with aspect ratio 2 and 4 (11.3%). The numerical results indicated that for a reliable prediction of real material behavior via discrete element models, the employed model should be capable of manipulating individual elements with shape as close as possible to the shape of real particles.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

As most of the agricultural materials comprise a system of individual nonspherical particles, a suitable discrete element (DE) model should be employed to gain realistic results. The DE models with spherical particles are very simple, which are less costly, while these models cannot predict the accurate behavior of systems comprising nonspherical particles. Hence, for such materials, using nonspherical models such as multisphere models is a must. Examples of such produce that need models with nonspherical or elongated elements are kernels and some fruits, whereas some other agricultural particles that are nearly spherical can be successfully simulated with DE models of spherical elements. The DE model employing the multisphere method (MSM) can be used for either case (spherical or nonspherical) to study the agricultural particulate materials processing operations on a particle scale (microscale), such as collision forces between individual grain and fruits that cannot easily be gained from experiments.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION CHANGES AND FAT OXIDATION IN SARDINE MINCE FOLLOWING SODIUM BICARBONATE AND SODIUM CHLORIDE WASHING
Authors: SELMI SALAH , BATISTA IRINEU , SADOK SALOUA , BANDARRA NARCISA M. , NUNES MARIA L.
Published: August 2009

Washed sardine mince was prepared according to the following scheme: (1) evisceration and beheading by hand; (2) mince preparation in a deboner; (3) first washing in a water solution with 0.2% NaHCO3 and 0.15% NaCl; second washing in water; and (4) third washing in 0.25% NaCl. A significant increase (P < 0.05) of the peroxide value occurred during the mince preparation process. However, no significant difference in conjugated diene and thiobarbituric acid index was recorded. The washing treatments led to a release of lipids, which were mainly constituted by triacylglycerols rich in n‐3 fatty acids. A significant increase in the polar lipids fraction (especially phosphatidylcholine) was recorded in mince sardine. Eicosapentaenoic acid level of neutral lipid decline throughout the mincing process, but the docosahexaenoic acid level showed a significant increase. Minced sardine obtained in these conditions could be considered a good source of amino acids and n‐3 fatty acids.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sardine mince was obtained following successive washings with NaHCO3/NaCl solution, tap water and NaCl solution. Assessment of the sardine's biochemical composition at the different processing steps led to a mince product of low fat content. Furthermore, from a technological point of view, it would be quite profitable to recover the oil released in mince washing because of its richness in compounds of high added value, such as triacylglycerols rich in n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
LIFESTYLE, RATIONAL CHOICE, AND ADOLESCENT FEAR: A TEST OF A RISK‐ASSESSMENT FRAMEWORK*
Authors: MELDE CHRIS
Published: August 2009

Criminological research on fear of crime primarily has been based on, and supportive of, an opportunity framework. The current research tests an expanded risk‐assessment model of fear, which is rooted in an opportunity framework, by incorporating a measure of delinquent lifestyle, which is a known risk factor for victimization, using a sample of youth aged 10–16 years. The findings from longitudinal structural equation models do not support the applicability of a risk‐assessment model of fear in adolescence. Namely, although increased involvement in a delinquent lifestyle is associated strongly with an increase in victimization over time, no such association exists with the perceived risk of victimization. Most importantly, as adolescents become more involved in a delinquent lifestyle and are victimized at a higher rate than nondelinquent youth, their fear of victimization actually decreases at a significantly higher rate than more prosocial youth.
NEIGHBORHOOD RACIAL CONTEXT AND PERCEPTIONS OF POLICE‐BASED RACIAL DISCRIMINATION AMONG BLACK YOUTH*
Authors: STEWART ERIC A. , BAUMER ERIC P. , BRUNSON ROD K. , SIMONS RONALD L.
Published: August 2009

Renewed interest has occurred in the United States around racially biased policing. Unfortunately, little is known about the effects of neighborhood social context on black adolescents' experiences with racially biased policing. In the current study, we examined whether perceptions of racially biased policing against black adolescents are a function of neighborhood racial composition, net of other neighborhood‐ and individual‐level factors. Using two waves of data from 763 black adolescents, we found that black adolescents most frequently are discriminated against by the police in predominantly white neighborhoods. This effect especially is pronounced in white neighborhoods that experienced recent growth in the size of the black population. Our results lend support to the “defended” white neighborhood thesis.
IS THE ANTISOCIAL CHILD FATHER OF THE ABUSIVE MAN? A 40‐YEAR PROSPECTIVE LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON THE DEVELOPMENTAL ANTECEDENTS OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE*
Authors: LUSSIER PATRICK , FARRINGTON DAVID P. , MOFFITT TERRIE E.
Published: August 2009

This prospective longitudinal study examined whether early childhood risk factors contributed to explaining and predicting intimate partner violence (IPV) in midadulthood. Participants included 202 men from the Cambridge longitudinal study who were in an intimate relationship in their mid‐40s. Neuropsychological deficits and the presence of a criminogenic family environment were measured between ages 8 and 10. Antisocial behavior was measured between ages 8 and 18. IPV was measured at age 48 using a self‐report instrument completed by the participants' female partners. Perpetration and victimization rates were relatively high; violence was mostly mutual, and men were more likely to be victims than perpetrators. Findings indicate that a criminogenic environment increases the risk of IPV by fostering the development of antisocial behavior and neuropsychological deficits. A link also exists between a high level of antisocial behavior during adolescence and the risk of IPV later in life. The results suggest the presence of both continuity and discontinuity of antisocial behavior as childhood risk factors that increase the likelihood of future involvement in IPV, but the role of these risk factors is modest.
IMMIGRATION AND THE RECENT VIOLENT CRIME DROP IN THE UNITED STATES: A POOLED, CROSS‐SECTIONAL TIME‐SERIES ANALYSIS OF METROPOLITAN AREAS*
Authors: STOWELL JACOB I. , MESSNER STEVEN F. , MCGEEVER KELLY F. , RAFFALOVICH LAWRENCE E.
Published: August 2009

A good deal of research in recent years has revisited the relationship between immigration and violent crime. Various scholars have suggested that, contrary to the claims of the classic Chicago School, large immigrant populations might be associated with lower rather than higher rates of criminal violence. A limitation of the research in this area is that it has been based largely on cross‐sectional analyses for a restricted range of geographic areas. Using time‐series techniques and annual data for metropolitan areas over the 1994–2004 period, we assess the impact of changes in immigration on changes in violent crime rates. The findings of multivariate analyses indicate that violent crime rates tended to decrease as metropolitan areas experienced gains in their concentration of immigrants. This inverse relationship is especially robust for the offense of robbery. Overall, our results support the hypothesis that the broad reductions in violent crime during recent years are partially attributable to increases in immigration.
U.S. ATTORNEYS AND SUBSTANTIAL ASSISTANCE DEPARTURES: TESTING FOR INTERPROSECUTOR DISPARITY*
Authors: SPOHN CASSIA , FORNANGO ROBERT
Published: August 2009

An important and highly discretionary component of the federal sentencing guidelines is the downward departure for providing substantial assistance. Critics charge that the substantial assistance departure, which requires a motion by the prosecutor, may produce the type of unwarranted sentencing disparity that the guidelines were intended to eliminate. Research reveals, for example, that jurisdictional variations are evident in the use of substance assistance departures (Johnson, Ulmer, and Kramer, 2008; Nagel and Schulhofer, 1992), and that the likelihood of receiving the departure is affected by legally irrelevant offender characteristics, which include race, ethnicity, and gender (Mustard, 2001). The purpose of this article is to extend this research by exploring the degree to which decisions regarding substantial assistance departures vary across prosecutors. Using data on offenders sentenced in three U.S. district courts and a multilevel modeling strategy, we investigate whether interprosecutor disparity exists in the likelihood of substantial assistance departures and in the criteria that prosecutors use in deciding whether to file a motion for a substantial assistance departure. Findings indicate that significant interprosecutor variation remains after taking into account offender characteristics, case characteristics, and the district in which the case is adjudicated.
TESTING SOCIAL LEARNING THEORY USING REINFORCEMENT'S RESIDUE: A MULTILEVEL ANALYSIS OF SELF‐REPORTED THEFT AND MARIJUANA USE IN THE NATIONAL YOUTH SURVEY*
Authors: BRAUER JONATHAN R.
Published: August 2009

Critics have expressed concerns regarding measurement strategies or analytic techniques often used in social learning research (Horan and Phillips, 2003; Krohn, 1999; Sampson, 1999; Tittle, 2004). In response to these concerns, this study tests the hypothesized causal relationships among reinforcement, general definitions, and self‐reported crime (theft and marijuana use) using a multilevel modeling approach with longitudinal data from the first five waves of the National Youth Survey (NYS), as well as with indirect parent and friend reinforcement measures that incorporate both the assumed products of reinforcement (expected consequences of behavior) and the efficacy of reinforcement (expected influence of the reinforcement source). Within‐subject analyses present a challenge to the theory as social learning variables do not covary significantly over time with criminal offending rates. Between‐subject analyses offer support for the theory as across‐person differences in average parent and friend reinforcement are significantly related to offending rates, and these reinforcement–crime relationships are mediated partially or fully by learned definitions. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Challenges of negotiating obesity‐related findings with African migrants in Australia: Lessons learnt from the African Migrant Capacity Building and Performance Appraisal Project
Authors: RENZAHO André M.N.
Published: August 2009

Aim:  To document sub‐Saharan African migrants' and teachers' reaction to and acceptance of findings from African Migrant Capacity Building and Performance Appraisal initiative, and to examine the implications for any community‐based obesity prevention program.

Methods:  Two community forums were organised to discuss the research findings: one with 45 African community leaders from various African communities in Melbourne; and the other with 17 primary and secondary teachers from English Language Schools and Centres across Victoria. The dissemination focused on highlighting the rapid weight gain and obesity risks observed among African migrant children.

Results:  Sub‐Saharan African migrants' reaction to the findings was that of pride and satisfaction with large body size, seeing it as a job well done, reflecting their perceptions that obesity is not a disease. In addition, they highlighted the intergenerational conflict related to body size ideals between parents and teenage offspring, with the latter preferring model‐like Australian body sizes.

Conclusion:  Further research is required to examine the association between shifting preferences in body ideals and obesity among traditional communities, such as sub‐Saharan African migrants. The understanding of how changes in body image perceptions may influence eating and exercise behaviours among sub‐Saharan African migrants would assist in the development of obesity‐related preventive interventional programs for this at‐risk population.
Developing an online program to prevent obesity in preschool‐aged children: What do parents recommend?
Authors: JONES Rachel A. , PRICE Nathan , OKELY Anthony D. , LOCKYER Lori
Published: August 2009

Aim:  The purpose of the present study was to describe preliminary research preceding the development of an online educational program for parents of preschool‐aged children who are overweight or at‐risk of overweight.

Methods:  The study consisted of an evaluation of current health‐related websites and four focus groups with typical‐end point users. It was conducted in one metropolitan region in New South Wales. Twenty‐seven participants were recruited for the focus groups. The focus groups aimed to investigate the thoughts and opinions of participants towards an online educational program. Focus group transcripts were analysed using logico‐inductive analysis procedures.

Results:  The evaluation of the websites revealed that most were largely repositories of information and did not provide guidance on how to practically implement the information into everyday life. Several themes emerged from the focus groups, including: usability and readability; credibility; inclusiveness; personalisation and practical help in modifying current behaviours.

Conclusions:  The present study highlights many of the limitations in current online programs/websites and interventions targeting preschool children. We have attempted to address these in the design and development of the Time2bHealthy Program. The present study describes the first step in the development of a novel and innovative initiative that has the potential to make a contribution to long‐term health of preschool children and their families.
How many Australian deaths from heart disease and stroke could be avoided by a small reduction in population cholesterol levels?
Authors: HUXLEY Rachel , CLIFTON Peter , PERKOVIC Vlado , WOODWARD Mark , NEAL Bruce
Published: August 2009

Aim:  To quantify the number of premature deaths from coronary heart disease and ischaemic stroke that potentially could be avoided annually among the Australian population if a sustained 10% reduction in the mean population level of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were to be achieved.

Methods:  Data were obtained on the number of deaths from coronary heart disease and stroke in the Australian population, subdivided into age and sex strata, and on the mean population level of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Published relative risks (95% CI) from a meta‐analysis of lipid‐lowering therapy were used to calculate the reduction in the relative risk for coronary heart disease and stroke associated with a 5%, 10% and 15% reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. The expected number of deaths from coronary heart disease and ischaemic stroke avoidable with a 10% reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was modelled. Secondary analyses were performed assuming reductions in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol of 5% and 15%.

Results:  A 10% reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol would prevent 2279 deaths from coronary heart disease (95% CI: 2025–2531 deaths) and 641 deaths from ischaemic stroke (95% CI: 440–881 deaths). The projected benefits are greatest among the elderly, although some benefit would be expected in all age and sex groups and among individuals with a broad range of baseline levels of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Conclusions:  A small leftward shift in the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol distribution of the adult Australian population has the potential to save about 3000 lives from coronary heart disease and stroke annually. Achieving this goal will require the active participation of key public health, food industry and government stakeholders.
Structural change in Medicare funding: Impact on the dietetics workforce
Authors: MITCHELL Lana J. , CAPRA Sandra , MACDONALD‐WICKS Lesley
Published: August 2009

Aim:  To review the dietetic workforce profile and share of Enhanced Primary Care claims in the context of the Strengthening Medicare support for allied health services.

Methods:  Dietitians Association of Australia membership data from 2004 to 2007 were analysed to assess changes in the number and work hours of private practice dietitians. Medicare data for 2004–2005 to 2006–2007 were reviewed regarding uptake and distribution of allied health consultations.

Results:  The number of allied health Enhanced Primary Care consultations doubled between 2004–2005 and 2005–2006, with similar increases in 2006–2007. Physiotherapists claimed most, followed by podiatrists, then dietitians. Dietitians claimed most consultations per provider in 2004–2005 and 2005–2006, surpassed by podiatrists and diabetes educators in 2006–2007. The number and full‐time equivalents of private practice dietitians increased since 2004. Almost one‐third of members were engaged in private practice work by 2007. Approximately half of these worked eight hours or fewer per week in this setting over the period surveyed (45.9–50.8%).

Conclusions:  Medicare funding for allied health has provided structural change and presents an opportunity for growth in the private sector of dietetics. While the number and full‐time equivalents of private practice dietitians increased since 2004, the anticipated sharp increase relative to other work areas was not seen. Dietetics had a high uptake of Medicare consultations per provider and consultations increased each year; however, the declining share of total consultations demonstrates that dietitians are not using the opportunity presented by Medicare to the same degree as some allied health professions.
Rituximab Therapy in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Alcântara Cristina , Gomes Maria João , Ferreira Carlos
Published: September 2009

Primary Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of glandular tissues leading to sicca symptoms, namely, dry eyes and dry mouth. In the majority of cases, the disease course is benign, albeit with considerable patient discomfort. Some patients, however, have systemic symptoms with arthritis, cutaneous vasculitis, low complement levels, and cryoglobulinemia. A small but not insignificant percentage of those patients evolve to B cell lymphoma. The increased expression of B cell survival factors, such as B cell activating factor, may promote the perpetuation of a B cell clone and precede the lymphoproliferative disease. Rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody to CD20, leads to B cell depletion and may have a role in Sjögren systemic manifestations as well as in preventing and treating Sjögren‐associated lymphoma.
IL‐18 Activity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Favilli Flavia , Anzilotti Consuelo , Martinelli Lucia , Quattroni Paola , De Martino Salvatore , Pratesi Federico , Neumann Detlef , Beermann Silke , Novick Daniela , Dinarello Charles A. , Boraschi Diana , Migliorini Paola
Published: September 2009

Interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) is an inflammation‐related cytokine that plays a central role both in innate defense reactions and in Th1 activation and specific immune responses. Increased levels of IL‐18 can be detected in biological fluids and organs of individuals affected by several autoimmune pathologies, as well as in autoimmune animal models. In this review, the role of IL‐18 in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is critically examined, including its possible role in the pathogenesis of disease. In SLE, increased levels of IL‐18 have been found in serum/plasma of affected persons, which positively correlated with disease severity. The possibility that circulating IL‐18 levels are predictive of renal damage has been proposed, suggesting that IL‐18 may be a prognostic marker of renal involvement useful to identify patients at risk of renal failure. The evaluation of urinary levels of free active IL‐18 indeed suggests a correlation with the degree of renal involvement. The possible pathogenic role of IL‐18 in lupus has been studied in a mouse model of progressive disease, which makes possible the identification, at the level of the different affected organs, of IL‐18 changes preceding disease development and those appearing after disease onset. It can be concluded that IL‐18 has a multifaceted role in autoimmune lupus, being apparently involved both in the effector phases of the late organ damage and, in some organs, in the initial pathogenic events. Therapeutic strategies targeting IL‐18 in autoimmunity are under development.
Humoral Mechanisms of Atherogenesis
Authors: Batuca Joana R. , Amaral Marta C. , Alves J. Delgado
Published: September 2009

The concept that atherosclerosis is an autoimmune disease is no longer controversial. Attention has been paid to cellular immune response, but current research is now focused on the humoral component of this complex disease. Heat shock proteins, oxidized low‐density lipoproteins, β2‐glycoprotein 1, cardiolipins, and, more recently, high‐density lipoproteins have been considered to be autoantigens that play a part in atherogenesis. The characterization and understanding of the mechanisms associated with the presence of these antigens and their respective autoantibodies might contribute to elucidating the atherosclerotic process. In the near future, immune modulation might constitute a very effective therapy of atherosclerosis.
The Role of Infections in the Immunopathogensis of Systemic Sclerosis–Evidence from Serological Studies
Authors: Arnson Yoav , Amital Howard , Guiducci Serena , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Valentini Gabriele , Barzilai Ori , Maya Ram , Shoenfeld Yehuda
Published: September 2009

Infections are believed to often play a role in the immunopathogenesis of autoimmune disorders; such is the case in systemic sclerosis (SSc). In order to evaluate the potential role infections may have on the pathogenesis of SSc, we assessed serological reactivity against various infectious agents in patients with SSc and compared them with healthy controls. Serological samples obtained from 80 patients with SSc were compared with 296 compatible healthy controls. Both groups were of European origin. All samples were tested for the presence of antibodies directed against hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, toxoplasmosis, rubella, CMV, EBV, and Treponema pallidum. We applied Bio‐Rad commercial and experimental kits to assess most antigens and ELISA assays to complete the panel. Patients with SSc had elevated IgM and IgG against Toxoplasma gondii and against CMV. Higher titers were also detected against the hepatitis B virus core protein (recombinant HBc antigen) using MONOLISA anti‐HBc Plus commercial kit (Bio‐Rad). A significantly higher rate of IgM antibodies against the capsid antigen of the EBV was detected in SSc patients compared with healthy controls, as well. These data demonstrate that antibodies against CMV, HBV, and toxoplasmosis were detected more often in patients with SSc. This association implies that infectious agents may have a role in disease pathogenesis and expression.