bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower bounds for some factorable matrices
Authors: Rhoades B. E. , Sen Pali
Published: November 2006

We determine the lower bounds for classes of Rhaly matrices,
considered as bounded linear operators on ℓp. We improve on and provide correct proofs of the results of the first
author (1990).
Riemann‐Stieltjes operators between Bergman‐type spaces andα‐Bloch spaces
Authors: Li Songxiao
Published: November 2006

We study the following integral operators:
;
, where g is an analytic function on the open unit disk in the complex plane. The
boundedness and compactness of Jg, Ig between the Bergman‐type spaces and the α‐Bloch spaces are investigated.
Pathobiology of Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Tzankov Alexandar , Dirnhofer Stephan
Published: November 2006

The World Health Organization has acknowledged the malignant nature of classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), which encompasses four histological subtypes. The diagnosis of cHL is based on the detection of malignant Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg cells (HRSC) confirmed by immunophenotyping and the detection of growth patterns specific to each histological subtype. The pathologic HRSC arise from germinal center or immediate postgerminal cells that lack detectable immunoglobulin/B-cell antigen receptor expression, with a consequent loss of B-cell identity; very few cHL cases are of T-cell origin. To escape apoptosis, which normally occurs in B cells with nonfunctioning antigen receptor machinery, HRSC develop concurrent antiapoptotic mechanisms by activation of nuclear factor-ĸB or are rescued by Epstein-Barr virus infection. HRSC are characterized by a variable and inconstant immunophenotype, with a remarkable loss of lineage-specific cell antigens and expression of antigens of other cell lineages. The master plan of B-cell identity in HRSC is disturbed not only at the immunoglobulin expression level, but also at the transcriptional factor level. HRSC are further characterized by profound cell cycle deregulation with futile replication, multinucleation and poly- and aneuploidy. Here, we review pathobiological aspects of cHL with respect to lymphomagenesis and routine diagnostics.
Coevolution of Down-Valley Flow and the Nocturnal Boundary Layer in Complex Terrain
Authors: Pinto J. O. , Parsons D. B. , Brown W. O. J. , Cohn S. , Chamberlain N. , Morley B.
Published: November 2006

An enhanced National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) integrated sounding system (ISS) was deployed as part of the Vertical Transport and Mixing (VTMX) field experiment, which took place in October of 2000. The enhanced ISS was set up at the southern terminus of the Great Salt Lake Valley just north of a gap in the Traverse Range (TR), which separates the Great Salt Lake and Utah Lake basins. This location was chosen to sample the dynamic and thermodynamic properties of the flow as it passes over the TR separating the two basins. The enhanced ISS allowed for near-continuous sampling of the nocturnal boundary layer (NBL) and low-level winds associated with drainage flow through the gap in the TR. Diurnally varying winds were observed at the NCAR site on days characterized by weak synoptic forcing and limited cloud cover. A down-valley jet (DVJ) was observed on about 50% of the nights during VTMX, with the maximum winds usually occurring within 150 m of the surface. The DVJ was associated with abrupt warming at low levels as a result of downward mixing and vertical transport of warm air from the inversion layer above. Several processes were observed to contribute to vertical transport and mixing at the NCAR site. Pulses in the strength of the DVJ contributed to vertical transport by creating localized areas of low-level convergence. Gravity waves and Kelvin–Helmholtz waves, which facilitated vertical mixing near the surface and atop the DVJ, were observed with a sodar and an aerosol backscatter lidar that were deployed as part of the enhanced ISS. The nonlocal nature of the processes responsible for generating turbulence in strongly stratified surface layers in complex terrain confounds surface flux parameterizations typically used in mesoscale models that rely on Monin–Obukhov similarity theory. This finding has major implications for modeling NBL structure and drainage flows in regions of complex terrain.
Methods in Scaling the Basic Competence Test
Authors: Chang Shun-Wen
Published: November 2006

This study evaluates the effects of employing the linear, normalizing, and arcsine transformation methods for constructing scale scores on the Basic Competence Test (BCTEST). Tests in three subject areas (Chinese, English, and Mathematics) were studied using the data of test administrations from 2001 to 2003. The resulting scale scores for each test over the years were examined with respect to the graphs of the raw-to-scale score conversions, summary statistics, and measurement properties calculated based on the strong true score theory. The effects of adjustments in rounding and truncating and the gaps resulting from the conversions were explored. The findings provided sufficient evidence that employing the arcsine transformation stabilized the error variability along almost the entire scale. But the linear transformation produced the most satisfactory results regarding the gap sizes, and the normalizing approach produced similar distributional properties among the tests. This research has revealed useful information about the features of scales based on different transformation approaches.
Blocked Versus Randomized Format of Questionnaires
Authors: Sparfeldt Jörn R. , Schilling Susanne R. , Rost Detlef H. , Thiel Alexandra
Published: November 2006

The notion of item context effects implies that psychometric properties of an item or scale are altered by the presentation format, for example, blocked versus randomized. In an experimental study with high school students, the experimental group ( n = 407) answered a four-dimensional academic self-concept questionnaire, in which the items were presented in a grid with eight identical item stems forming the rows and four academic subjects (math, physics, German, English) forming the columns, thereby maximizing potential blocking effects. The control group ( n = 396) answered the identical items presented in a traditional randomized order. Multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses demonstrated similar factorial structures (i.e., factor loadings, factor variances, and factor covariances) of the two versions. Scale means, scale homogeneities, and relations with grades in the corresponding and noncorresponding subjects were very similar. Practical implications of these results for economical measurement of educational and psychological concepts (i.e., using grids) are discussed.
Confidence Interval Coverage for Cohen's Effect Size Statistic
Authors: Algina James , Keselman H. J. , Penfield Randall D.
Published: November 2006

Kelley compared three methods for setting a confidence interval (CI) around Cohen's standardized mean difference statistic: the noncentral- t-based, percentile (PERC) bootstrap, and biased-corrected and accelerated (BCA) bootstrap methods under three conditions of nonnormality, eight cases of sample size, and six cases of population effect size (ES) magnitude. Kelley recommended the BCA bootstrap method. The authors expand on his investigation by including additional cases of nonnormality. Like Kelley, they find that under many conditions, the BCA bootstrap method works best; however, they also find that in some cases of nonnormality, the method does not control probability coverage. The authors also define a robust parameter for ES and a robust sample statistic, based on trimmed means and Winsorized variances, and cite evidence that coverage probability for this parameter is good over the range of nonnormal distributions investigated when the PERC bootstrap method is used to set CIs for the robust ES.
An In-Depth Analysis of the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI)
Authors: Cano Francisco
Published: November 2006

This study explores the latent structure of scores on the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) and analyzes the relationship between this structure and students' academic performance. Two independent samples of college freshmen ( n = 527) and seniors ( n = 429) completed the LASSI. Data analysis of the first sample revealed acceptable psychometric properties and suggested a three-factor model, which was supported by a confirmatory analysis of the second sample data. The three latent constructs, labeled Affective Strategies, Goal Strategies, and Comprehension Monitoring Strategies, were shown to be interrelated, and the first two were positively linked to academic performance. The usefulness and rationale of the latent structure of the LASSI and the potential use of its scales are discussed.
The 20-Minute Version as a Predictor of the Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices Test
Authors: Hamel Ronald , Schmittmann Verena D.
Published: November 2006

The Raven Advanced Progressive Matrices Test (APM) is a well-known measure of higher order general mental ability. The time to administer the test, 40 to 60 minutes, is sometimes regarded as a drawback. To meet efficiency needs, the APM can be administered as a 30-or 40-minute timed test, or one of two developed short versions could be used. In this study, the 20-minute timed version of the APM is compared to the untimed APM as a measure of intellectual ability in 1st-year psychology students. This 20-minute timed version proves to be an adequate predictor of the untimed APM score.
Exploring State-Level Variation in Juvenile Incarceration Rates
Authors: Mears Daniel P.
Published: November 2006

Despite large-scale increases in juvenile incarceration rates nationally, relatively little attention has been given to explaining why some states invest more heavily than others in the long-term confinement of young offenders. This article explores four potential explanations. First, investment in juvenile incarceration may be greater where symbolic threats to social order are higher. Second, it may be greater in states where crime, especially juvenile violent crime, is more prevalent. Third, juvenile incarceration practices may simply reflect those deemed suitable for adult offenders; thus, states with higher adult incarceration rates may incarcerate more juveniles. Finally, cultural acceptance of punitive policies, as in the South, may contribute to higher rates of juvenile incarceration. Using state-level data, the article focuses primarily on the first explanation and the extent to which the alternatives can account for any observed symbolic threat effect. The study’s implications for policy and research are discussed.
Employment Discrimination in Organizations: Antecedents and Consequences
Authors: Goldman Barry M. , Gutek Barbara A. , Stein Jordan H. , Lewis Kyle
Published: November 2006

This article reviews the research on employment discrimination in organizations. It focuses on discrimination perceptions, charges, and lawsuits and discusses the consequences of discrimination. Among the conclusions are the following: (a) The proportion of claimants filing under different antidiscrimination statutes differs by race; (b) the area needs theories that can explain wide variance in perceptions of events; (c) the consequences of discrimination are best viewed from individual, group, and organizational levels; and (d) if the results of instruments are used in legal settings, social scientists should pay careful attention to reliability and validity, as well as standards of legally admissible evidence.
Staffing in the 21st Century: New Challenges and Strategic Opportunities
Authors: Ployhart Robert E.
Published: November 2006

Modern organizations struggle with staffing challenges stemming from increased knowledge work, labor shortages, competition for applicants, and workforce diversity. Yet, despite such critical needs for effective staffing practice, staffing research continues to be neglected or misunderstood by many organizational decision makers. Solving these challenges requires staffing scholars to expand their focus from individual-level recruitment and selection research to multilevel research demonstrating the business unit/organizational- level impact of staffing. Toward this end, this review provides a selective and critical analysis of staffing best practices covering literature from roughly 2000 to the present. Several research-practice gaps are also identified.
New Venture Growth: A Review and Extension
Authors: Gilbert Brett Anitra , McDougall Patricia P. , Audretsch David B.
Published: November 2006

New venture growth differs from that of established firms and is an important topic for scholarly inquiry. Current literature on new venture growth has focused primarily on why new ventures grow to the exclusion of how and where that growth is occurring. This article reviews the literature on new venture growth and addresses key limitations within this stream of research. It unites the literature on why new ventures grow with that of how (through internal or external means) and where (in domestic or international markets) new ventures grow to advance an important research agenda for future new venture growth studies.
Models of Interpersonal Trust Development: Theoretical Approaches, Empirical Evidence, and Future Directions
Authors: Lewicki Roy J. , Tomlinson Edward C. , Gillespie Nicole
Published: November 2006

Most research on trust has taken a static, “snapshot” view; that is, it has approached trust as an independent, mediating, or dependent variable captured by measuring trust at a single point in time. Limited attention has been given to conceptualizing and measuring trust development over time within interpersonal relationships. The authors organize the existing work on trust development into four broad areas: the behavioral approach and three specific conceptualizations of the psychological approach (unidimensional, two-dimensional, and transformational models). They compare and contrast across these approaches and use this analysis to identify unanswered questions and formulate directions for future research.
Basketball, Zapatistas, and Other Racial Subjects
Authors: Springwood Charles Fruehling
Published: November 2006

This essay, in struggling to account for the twisted intersections of sport and race across the US-Mexico border, argues that the cultural critic must account for not only hybridity and transnational flows of labor and capital but also for structures of feeling and structures of interaction. In this framework, basketball reveals a postmodern emotional self for the indigenous Mexican that is at once gendered, racialized, resistant and complicit, flexible, and strategic. Examining the pleasures of basketball for indigenous Mexicans in both Mexico and Los Angeles, the author asserts that while playing this game with so much passion, the players are devising their own sets of racial and ethnic premises, authoring, as it were, their own theories of difference and identity.
Characterization of T-cell population in children with prolonged fetal exposure to dexamethasone for anti-Ro/SS-A antibodies associated congenital heart block
Authors: Airó P , Scarsi M , Brucato A , Benicchi T , Malacarne F , Cavazzana I , Danieli E , LiDestri M , Motta M , Caimi L , Tincani A , Imberti L
Published: November 2006

The objectives of the study were to characterize the production, function and survival of T lymphocytes of children with prolonged fetal exposure to dexamethasone for anti-Ro/SS-A antibodies associated congenital complete heart block. The analysis of thymic function, studied by measuring the level of T-cell receptor excision circles, was performed by real time PCR, the composition of T-cell subpopulation was evaluated by flow cytometry and the T-cell diversity was assayed by heteroduplex analysis. T-cell competence was gauged at two functional levels by determining the proliferation and the number of T-cell divisions and by measuring γ-interferon production after mitogenic stimulation. We observed that the thymic output, distribution of T-cell subsets, thymidine incorporation, number of T-cell divisions, and γ-interferon production were comparable to those of age-matched control. On the contrary, heteroduplex analysis demonstrated the presence of both polyclonal and oligoclonal peripheral T-cell repertoires.

In conclusion, the analysis of the T-cell compartment in children with prolonged intrauterine exposure to high dose dexamethasone did not disclose any relevant abnormality, except a restriction of T-cell receptor diversity in some patients.
B-lymphocyte activating factor in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis in relation to autoantibody levels, disease measures and time
Authors: Becker-Merok A , Nikolaisen C , Nossent H C
Published: November 2006

Overexpression of B-lymphocyte activating factor (BAFF) results in arthritis, glomerulonephritis and autoantibody formation in mice, but its role in human autoimmune disease is less obvious. Serum BAFF levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) ( n = 42) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) ( n = 60) were related to levels of disease activity, anti-dsDNA Ab, anti-ENA Ab, rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP Ab. BAFF levels were also followed over time in 19 SLE patients. BAFF levels correlated inversely with age, were higher in SLE than RA (median 2.7 versus 1.4 ng/mL, P < 0.01) and more SLE than RA patients had increased BAFF levels (57% versus 10%, P ≤ 0.01). In SLE, BAFF levels correlated with SLEDAI scores but not with anti-dsDNA Ab levels. SLE patients with increased BAFF levels had higher SLEDAI and CRP levels. In RA, BAFF levels correlated weakly with anti-CCP levels (Rs 0.27, P = 0.07), but not with joint counts, ESR, CRP or RF levels. Longitudinal BAFF levels remained unaltered in two thirds of SLE patients and changes in BAFF levels were unrelated to disease flares. These findings suggest that BAFF stimulation of B-cells may contribute to SLE by other mechanisms than autoantibody production.
Effect of antimalarials on thrombosis and survival in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ruiz-Irastorza G , Egurbide M-V , Pijoan J-I , Garmendia M , Villar I , Martinez-Berriotxoa A , Erdozain J-G , Aguirre C
Published: November 2006

Antimalarials have shown beneficial effects on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) activity. Our aim was to investigate whether antimalarials protect against thrombosis and influence survival in SLE patients. A prospective cohort including 232 patients with SLE were included in the study at the time of lupus diagnosis. End points were documented thrombosis and death due to any cause. A Cox regression-multiple-failure time survival analysis model was fitted to establish the effect of antimalarials on the development of thrombosis. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and propensity score adjusted-Cox regression analysis were performed to investigate the effect of antimalarials use on survival. Of our subjects, 204 patients (88%) were women. 230 patients (99%) were white. 150 patients (64%) had ever received antimalarials. Median time on antimalarials was 52 months (range three to 228 months). The Cox multiple-failure time survival analysis showed that taking antimalarials was protective against thrombosis (HR 0.28, 95%CI 0.08-0.90), while aPL-positivity (HR 3.16, 95%CI 1.45-6.88) and previous thrombosis (HR 3.85, 95%CI 1.50-9.91) increased the risk of thrombotic events. Twenty-three patients died, 19 of whom (83%) had never received antimalarials. No patient treated with antimalarials died of cardiovascular complications. Cumulative 15-year survival rates were 0.68 for never versus 0.95 for ever treated patients ( P < 0.001). Age at diagnosis and propensity score-adjusted HR for antimalarials ever versus never users was 0.14 (95%CI 0.04-0.48). Our study shows a protective effect of antimalarials against thrombosis and an increased survival of SLE patients taking these drugs. These data support the routine use of antimalarials in all patients with SLE.
Outcome of pregnancies complicated by systemic sclerosis and mixed connective tissue disease
Authors: Chung L , Flyckt R LR , Colón I , Shah A A , Druzin M , Chakravarty E F
Published: November 2006

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) are rare autoimmune diseases which share the common feature of non-inflammatory vasculopathy. Studies evaluating pregnancy outcomes in these patients have yielded conflicting results. We sought to describe the outcomes of pregnancies associated with SSc and MCTD followed at our center utilizing a retrospective review of all pregnant women with SSc and MCTD followed at Stanford University from 1993 to 2003.

We identified 20 pregnancies occurring in 13 women with SSc or MCTD. Twelve pregnancies occurred in seven women with SSc and eight pregnancies occurred in six women with MCTD. The overall preterm delivery rate was 39% and small for gestational age infants occurred in 50% and 63% of pregnancies associated with SSc and MCTD, respectively. Fetal loss complicated two pregnancies in women with severe diffuse SSc and the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. There were no cases of congenital heartblock among infants, and only one case of pre-eclampsia was observed. Maternal flares of disease during pregnancy were generally mild.

Most pregnancies in women with SSc and MCTD in this cohort were uncomplicated. The high rates of prematurity and small for gestational age infants underscore the risk for growth restriction consistent with the vasculopathy associated with these diseases.
Diminished expression of complement regulatory proteins (CD55 and CD59) in lymphocytes from systemic lupus erythematosus patients with lymphopenia
Authors: García-Valladares I , Atisha-Fregoso Y , Richaud-Patin Y , Jakez-Ocampo J , Soto-Vega E , Elías-López D , Carrillo-Maravilla E , Cabiedes J , Ruiz-Argüelles A , Llorente L
Published: November 2006

CD55 and CD59 are glycophosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins with complement inhibitory properties. Lymphopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been associated with autoantibodies targeting nuclear antigens. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surface density of CD55 and CD59 in T and B lymphocytes from patients with SLE and lymphopenia and its possible correlation with the presence of common SLE autoantibodies. Flow cytometric analyses were performed on CD55 and CD59 stained CD3 and CD19 cells from 40 SLE patients, 30 with lymphopenia and 10 without it, and 25 healthy controls. Autoantibodies were detected in the sera by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The mean fluorescence intensity of CD55 and CD59 in T and B cells was significantly diminished in SLE patients with lymphopenia when compared with healthy subjects. Interestingly, the opposite was found in T and B cells from non-lymphopenic SLE patients. Although there was no correlation between CD55 and CD59 surface density and the presence of any specificity of the autoantibodies tested, higher titres of anti-dsDNA, anti-SM and anti-ribosomal p antibodies were significantly associated with lymphopenia. The deficiency of CD55 and CD59 expression may play a role in the pathophysiology of lymphopenia, most likely by increasing the susceptibility of cells to complement mediated cytolysis.
Fatigue in cancer patients treated with cytotoxic drugs
Authors: Hartvig Per , Aulin Johan , Hugerth Matilda , Wallenberg Sofia , Wagenius Gunnar
Published: November 2006

Study objectives. Cancer-related fatigue is a significant and distressing problem for the cancer patient, affecting their physical and psychosocial function negatively, and reducing their quality of life. The aims of this study were to assess frequency, severity, and the consequence of fatigue in cancer outpatients receiving cytotoxic drugs, using an existing international fatigue scale applied for Swedish use.

Methods. The study used a non-randomized, prospective design to evaluate fatigue and its impact on quality of life in outpatients receiving cytotoxic drugs. Once a week, 147 cancer patients, in an outpatient ward for cytotoxic drug administration, filled out questionnaires containing 13 items from the Fatigue Symptom Inventory (FSI), and five additional questions.

Results. Prevalence of fatigue was 92% in the week after all patients had received cytotoxic drugs, and patients were statistically significantly more fatigued during than before treatment. The degree of fatigue was highest the week after treatment, and declined over the following week. Other symptoms, especially depressed mood, showed a strong correlation with cancer and cytotoxic-induced fatigue. Lung and breast cancer patients experienced the highest degree of fatigue. Some cytotoxic drug regimens were, apart from the underlying disease, associated with high fatigue scores, eg, those with cyclophosphamide or gemcitabine. Patients not receiving first line treatment scored significantly higher fatigue with more influence on daily living.

Conclusion. The study verified that fatigue is a common side effect, and affects quality of life negatively, even for outpatients receiving cytotoxic drugs. The clinical oncology pharmacist must inform patients that a severe tiredness, fatigue, may follow cytotoxic drug administration.
The experiences of behavior interventionists who work with children with autism in families’ homes
Authors: Elfert Miriam , Mirenda Pat
Published: November 2006

This study examined the experiences of 65 behavior interventionists (BIs) who provide 1:1 home-based instruction to children with autism in two Canadian provinces. Dependent variables included occupational stress; the relationships among stress, strain, and coping; the relationship between stress and the characteristics of both challenging families and children with autism; and the most and least rewarding aspects of BIs’ jobs. The two most stressful work roles for BIs were role overload (the extent to which job demands exceed personal/workplace resources) and role boundary (the extent to which the individual experiences conflicting role demands at work). Significant relationships were found between coping and both stress and strain; however, coping did not moderate the relationship between stress and strain. Significant correlations were found between BI stress and both sensory-related behaviors and social unrelatedness in children with autism. The implications for the BIs, the families, and the agencies are discussed.
The discriminative ability and diagnostic utility of the ADOS-G, ADI-R, and GARS for children in a clinical setting
Authors: Mazefsky Carla A. , Oswald Donald P.
Published: November 2006

Recent years have seen a surge of interest in assessment instruments for diagnosing autism in children. Instruments have generally been developed and evaluated from a research perspective. The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Generic (ADOS-G), Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), and Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS) have received considerable attention and are widely used. The objective of this study was to explore the diagnostic utility and discriminative ability of these tools using a clinical population of children referred to a specialty diagnostic clinic over a 3 year time span. The results indicated that the ADOS-G and ADI-R led to approximately 75 percent agreement with team diagnoses, with most inconsistencies being false positive diagnoses based on the measures. The GARS was generally ineffective at discriminating between children with various team diagnoses and consistently underestimated the likelihood of autism. The findings have important implications for the use of these measures in both research and clinical practice.
Neuropsychological functioning in adults with Asperger syndrome
Authors: Ambery Fiona Z. , Russell Ailsa J. , Perry Katie , Morris Robin , Murphy Declan G.M.
Published: November 2006

There is some consensus in the literature regarding the cognitive profile of people with Asperger syndrome (AS). Findings to date suggest that a proportion of people with AS have higher verbal than performance IQ, a non-verbal learning disability (NVLD) and impairments in some aspects of executive function (EF). However, there are few published studies on adults with AS and many have compared the AS group to an autistic control group alone. We compared cognitive functioning in 27 AS adults without a history of language delay and 20 normal controls who did not differ significantly in age, gender and IQ. People with AS had significant impairments on a test of visual memory and on EF tasks measuring flexibility and generativity, but not inhibition. There was no significant difference between verbal and performance IQ. Our results suggest that impairments on tests requiring flexibility of thought and generation occur at all ages and across a range of autistic disorders including AS.
Living with ASD
Authors: Knott Fiona , Dunlop Aline-Wendy , Mackay Tommy
Published: November 2006

Social interaction and understanding in autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) are key areas of concern to practitioners and researchers alike. However, there is a relative lack of information about the skills and competencies of children and young people with ASD who access ordinary community facilities including mainstream education. In particular, contributions by parents and their children have been under-utilized. Using two structured questionnaires, 19 children with ASD reported difficulties with social skills including social engagement and temper management and also reported difficulties with social competence, affecting both friendships and peer relationships. Parents rated the children’s social skill and competence as significantly worse than did the children themselves, but there was considerable agreement about the areas that were problematic. Using an informal measure to highlight their children’s difficulties, parents raised issues relating to conversation skills, social emotional reciprocity and peer relationships. The implications for assessment and intervention are discussed.
Thermography and Thermometry in the Assessment of Diabetic Neuropathic Foot: A Case for Furthering the Role of Thermal Techniques
Authors: Bharara M. , Cobb J. E. , Claremont D. J.
Published: November 2006

There are currently 3 established techniques employed routinely to determine the risk of foot ulceration in the patient with diabetes mellitus. These are the assessment of circulation, neuropathy, and foot pressure. These assessments are widely used clinically as well as in the research domain with an aim to prevent the onset of foot ulceration. Routine neuropathic evaluation includes the assessment of sensory loss in the plantar skin of the foot using both the Semmes Weinstein monofilament and the biothesiometer. Thermological measurements of the foot to assess responses to thermal stimuli and cutaneous thermal discrimination threshold are relatively uncommon. Indeed, there remains uncertainty regarding the importance of thermal changes in the development of foot ulcers. Applications of thermography and thermometry in lower extremity wounds, vascular complications, and neuropathic complications have progressed as a result of improved imaging software and transducer technology. However, the uncertainty associated with the specific thermal modality, the costs, and processing times render its adaptation to the clinic. Therefore, wider adoption of thermological measurements has been limited. This article reviews thermal measurement techniques specific to diabetic foot such as electrical contact thermometry, cutaneous thermal discrimination thresholds, infrared thermography, and liquid crystal thermography.
Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Common Problem in Darwin
Authors: Byrnes Jennifer M.
Published: November 2006

Necrotizing fasciitis is considered a rare condition, with an incidence rate of 1 in 100 000 persons on average in the worldwide arena. However, at the Royal Darwin Hospital, an average of 10 cases per year with this condition are managed, which appears disproportionately high considering that the population of Darwin is 89 000. A case is presented in this report of a sports tourist to Darwin to indicate the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment, which are essential to reduce the high mortality (approximately 40%) associated with necrotizing fasciitis. However, early detection relies on appropriate and adequate clinical training.
This Course is Helping Us All Arrive at New Viewpoints, Isn't It?
Authors: Ziegler Mary F. , Paulus Trena M. , Woodside Marianne
Published: November 2006

This qualitative study explores how individuals made meaning of their life history experiences while in dialogue with others in an online learning group that was part of a graduate course on adult development. All online discussion forum postings exchanged by the group over the 3-week assignment period were downloaded and analyzed through phenomenological thematic analysis and discourse analysis. Our goal was to better understand both what happened in this online dialogue and how it took place. Four aspects of how the participants made meaning through dialogue emerged: noticing, reinterpreting, theorizing, and questioning assumptions, each with specific speech acts. These findings expand our understandings of how individuals transform meaning through narrative and dialogue. The identification of specific aspects of meaning making and their related speech acts make a contribution to the literature on online dialogue, the power of restorying, critical reflection in public meaning making, and transformative group learning.
Transformative Learning in Online Settings
Authors: Boyer Naomi R. , Maher Patricia A. , Kirkman Suzanne
Published: November 2006

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological research was to validate the findings from a previous exploratory study of transformative learning in a specific, primarily online, graduate course model. This study involved the systematic content analysis of the graduate students' reflective writings collected at specific intervals throughout each course semester. Construct validity of the content analysis was strengthened through the application of a coding rubric and data analysis triangulated across three researchers. The final results indicate that the phases of transformative learning were repeatedly evident in students' reflective discussion comments and that fundamental changes in preconceived ideas, beliefs, habits, or assumptions had occurred for approximately one fourth of the participants around the themes of course workload, fear of or incompetence with technology, social role priorities, the online self-directed course format, and collaborative learning. The instructor role was found to be a vital component in the facilitation of transformative learning.
Trimethylsilyl-substituted Dibenzodehydro[12]annulene Having High Thermal and Chemical Stability
Authors: Setaka Wataru , Kanai Shoko , Kabuto Chizuko , Kira Mitsuo
Published: November 2006

1,4,9,12-Tetrakis(trimethylsilyl)dibenzodehydro[12]annulene (3) was synthesized by the Eglinton coupling reaction in a good yield. In contrast to parent dibenzodehydro[12]annulene, 3 has extremely high thermal and chemical stability, probably due to the steric protection of the annulene ring by bulky trimethylsilyl substituents on benzene.
A Facile Fabrication to Cellulose-based Nanoparticles with Thermo-responsivity and Carboxyl Functional Groups
Authors: Dou Hong-jing , Yang Wei-hai , Sun Kang
Published: November 2006

Cellulose-based nanoparticles having thermo-sensitivity and carboxyl functional groups were fabricated for the first time without using any surfactant and organic solvent. The nanoparticles exhibit rapid and reversible dispersion–aggregation changes in response to narrow range temperature alternation near our body temperature as demonstrated by dynamic light scattering, which may be utilized in biomedical fields.
Treatment of Skeletally Mature Ovariectomized Rhesus Monkeys With PTH(1-84) for 16 Months Increases Bone Formation and Density and Improves Trabecular Architecture and Biomechanical Properties at the Lumbar Spine
Authors: Fox John , Miller Michael A , Newman Michael K , Turner Charles H , Recker Robert R , Smith Susan Y
Published: November 2006

Histomorphometric studies of treatments for osteoporosis in humans are restricted to iliac crest biopsies. We studied the effects of PTH(1-84) treatment at the lumbar spine of skeletally mature ovariectomized rhesus monkeys. PTH increased bone turnover, rapidly normalized BMD, and increased vertebral compressive strength. PTH increased trabecular bone volume primarily by increasing trabecular number by markedly increasing intratrabecular tunneling.

Introduction: Histomorphometric studies of the anabolic properties of PTH(1-84) (PTH) and related peptides in human bone are restricted to iliac crest biopsies. The ovariectomized (OVX) monkey is an accepted model of human postmenopausal bone loss and was used to study the effects of PTH treatment at clinically relevant skeletal sites.

Materials and Methods: Skeletally mature rhesus monkeys were OVX or sham-operated and, after a bone depletion period of 9 months, treated daily for 16 months with PTH (5, 10, or 25 μg/kg). Markers of bone formation (serum osteocalcin) and resorption (urine N-telopeptide [NTX]) and lumbar spine BMD were measured throughout the study. Trabecular architecture and vertebral biomechanical properties were quantified at 16 months.

Results: PTH treatment induced dose-dependent increases in bone turnover but did not increase serum calcium. Osteocalcin was significantly increased above OVX controls by 1 month. NTX was significantly elevated at 1 month with the highest dose, but not until 12 months with the 5 and 10 μg/kg doses. Lumbar spine BMD was 5% lower in OVX than in sham animals when treatment was started. All PTH doses increased BMD rapidly, with sham levels restored by 3–7 months with 10 and 25 μg/kg and by 16 months with 5 μg/kg. PTH treatment increased trabecular bone volume (BV/TV), primarily by increasing trabecular number, and dose-dependently increased bone formation rate (BFR) solely by increasing mineralizing surface. The largest effects on BV/TV and yield load occurred with the 10 μg/kg dose. The highest dose reduced trabecular thickness by markedly increasing intratrabecular tunneling.

Conclusions: PTH treatment of OVX rhesus monkeys increased bone turnover and increased BV/TV, BMD, and strength at the lumbar spine. All PTH doses were safe, but the 10 μg/kg dose was generally optimal, possibly because the highest dose resulted in too marked a stimulation of bone remodeling.
Suicidal Behaviors and Personality Structure
Authors: Grava Giulia , Ceroni Giuseppe Berti , Rucci Paola , Scudellari Paolo
Published: November 2006

In this paper we suggest the potential clinical usefulness of two projective tests (Rorschach and Object Relation Technique) and of a clinical interview focused on the pathway to suicide, life events, and major life difficulties to better define subtypes of patients attempting suicide. Thirty‐three hospitalized subjects who had attempted suicide in the previous 6 months were examined using an in‐depth assessment of the pathway to suicide. The aims of this study were: (1) to compare, within a clinical sample of suicidal attempters, the psychopathological, personality, and psychosocial characteristics of subjects with mood disorders alone, personality disorders and dysfunctional personality alone, and mood disorders with personality disorders and/or dysfunctional personality; and (2) to analyze the relationship between the method chosen and the clinical characteristics of the subgroups.
Survival of Largemouth Bass from Populations Infected with Largemouth Bass Virus and Subjected to Simulated Tournament Conditions
Authors: Schramm Harold L. , Davis Jonathan G.
Published: November 2006

Mortality was measured for largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides in simulated tournaments conducted at 26°C to determine whether an easily accomplished live-well management protocol reduced mortality. Treatment fish, which received the live-well management protocol, were held for 8 h in live wells at 23°C with water containing more than 5 mg of dissolved oxygen/L and 0.3% salt (NaCl). Control fish, were confined for 8 h in live wells at 26°C (ambient temperature) with dissolved oxygen fluctuating from 3 to 5 mg/L and no salt, which simulated the live-well management practices used by largemouth bass tournament anglers. Mortality after live-well confinement was 0% for both treatment and control fish, and mortality during the first 24 h after the simulated tournaments was 2.5%. Mortality of fish observed for up to 5 d after the simulated tournaments was high for treatment fish (mean = 75%; SE = 16%) and control fish (mean = 85%; SE = 11%), and we conclude that the treatment conditions did not reduce postrelease mortality. We suggest that the unusually high posttournament mortality was related to largemouth bass virus infections.
Effects of Explosives on Incubating Lake Trout Eggs in the Canadian Arctic
Authors: Faulkner Sean G. , Tonn William M. , Welz Marek , Schmitt Douglas R.
Published: November 2006

Industrial development, including geophysical exploration and mining, has increased use of explosives in and near fish habitat. To protect fish and their incubating eggs, Canadian blasting guidelines contain maximum allowable limits for overpressure and peak particle velocity (PPV). Although many studies have focused on how overpressure causes mortality in fish, no studies have examined the effects of PPVs from explosives on fish eggs. We exposed the eggs of lake trout Salvelinus namaycush to blasts from an open-pit mine at Lac de Gras, Northwest Territories, and measured the effects on egg mortality. Twenty Plexiglas incubators, each containing 50 eggs, were placed in the lake substrate at four sites; blast-monitoring equipment was also positioned at these sites. Three sites were within 220 m of the pit's dike, in a zone where PPVs were predicted to exceed the guidelines. A reference site was located outside of this blast zone 2 km away from the pit. Substrate at one of the blast zone sites was composed of material used in dike construction, whereas other sites were natural spawning shoals. To assess egg mortality during the period of greatest egg sensitivity to physical disturbance, half of the incubators were retrieved after 20 d; the remaining incubators were retrieved at ice-out. After 20 d, mortality at two of the three blast zone sites was lower than reference mortality, whereas mortality at the third site did not differ from the reference level. At ice-out, the single blast zone site with nonnatural substrate had higher mortality (by 10%) than the reference site. Ice-out mortality at the other two blast zone sites was similar to that of the reference site. Given that the largest blast exposure (28.5 mm/s) throughout the incubation period was more than double the current maximum allowable limit but still produced mortality similar to the reference level, we suggest that existing guidelines provide ample protection under these blasting conditions. The margin of this protection, however, remains unknown.
The hop phytoestrogen, 8-prenylnaringenin, reverses the ovariectomy-induced rise in skin temperature in an animal model of menopausal hot flushes
Authors: Bowe James , Li Xiao Feng , Kinsey-Jones James , Heyerick Arne , Brain Susan , Milligan Stuart , O’Byrne Kevin
Published: November 2006

The mechanisms underlying menopausal hot flushes are poorly understood, although it is generally assumed they result from disturbances of thermoregulatory centres in the hypothalamus. 8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN) has been identified as a potent phytoestrogen in hops (Humulus lupulus) and there are claims that hop-containing preparations can reduce hot flushes. We have investigated the site of action of 8-PN in a rat model of menopausal hot flushes, in which the tail skin temperature (TST) is increased after oestrogen withdrawal induced by ovariectomy. Daily s.c. administration of either 17β-oestradiol (E2; 4 μg/kg) or 8-PN (400 μg/kg) significantly reduced the elevated TST after 2 days of treatment. Subcutaneous co-administration of either E2 or 8-PN with the oestrogen receptor (ER) antagonist, ICI 182,780 (200 μg/kg), which is thought not to cross the blood–brain barrier, completely blocked the effect of E2 and 8-PN on TST. The ERα- and ERβ-specific agonists, 4,4′,4″-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol (100 μg/kg) and 2,3-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionitrile (60 μg/kg) respectively, both significantly reversed the raised TST in ovariectomised rats. These observations suggest that the regulation of the vasomotor response by oestrogens and phytoestrogens is mediated, at least in part, by peripheral mechanisms involving both ERα and ERβ.
Phytoestrogens regulate transcription and translation of vitamin D receptor in colon cancer cells
Authors: Gilad Liat Abovich , Tirosh Oren , Schwartz Betty
Published: November 2006

The present study assesses the effects of two isoflavones, genistein and glycitein, and equol – a product of intestinal bacterial metabolism of dietary isoflavones, on vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression in an intestinal HT29 cell line. Genistein and glycitein significantly upregulated the VDR transcription and translation in HT29 cells. The effect of equol was less pronounced.

Treating HT29 cells transfected with a vector containing the VDR promoter next to a luciferase reporter with genistein or glycitein resulted in significant upregulation of VDR promoter activity, in a manner similar to that induced by 17β-estradiol (E2). Again, the effect of equol was less pronounced. VDR luciferase promoter activity was upregulated most by genistein, then by glycitein and least by equol when the VDR promoter was cotransfected with estrogen receptor β.

Reporter gene and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays demonstrated that E2 upregulates AP-1 and Sp-1 sites present on the VDR gene. In contrast, the same assays demonstrated that the Sp-1, but not AP-1, site is induced by the phytoestrogens.

Similar to E2, genistein, glycitein and the isoflavonoid metabolite equol induced higher concentrations of intracellular free calcium, an event that could provide the upstream mechanism(s) induced by E2 and phytoestrogens that initiates the signaling cascade which results in the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways and modulation of Sp-1 sites of the VDR gene, and culminates in enhanced VDR expression.
Ceramide inhibition of chondrocyte proliferation and bone growth is IGF-I independent
Authors: MacRae V E , Burdon T , Ahmed S F , Farquharson C
Published: November 2006

Proinflammatory cytokines inhibit growth plate development. However, their underlying mechanisms of action are unclear. These effects may be mediated by ceramide, a sphingosine-based lipid second messenger, which is elevated in a number of chronic inflammatory diseases. To test this hypothesis, we determined the effects of C2-ceramide, a cell permeable ceramide analogue, on the growth of the ATDC5 chondrogenic cell line and on cultured fetal mice metatarsals. In ATDC5 cells, C2-ceramide significantly induced apoptosis at both 40 (82%; P < 0.05) and 25 μM (53%; P < 0.05). At 40 μM, C2-ceramide significantly reduced proliferation ([3H]-thymidine uptake/mg protein) (62%; P < 0.05). C2-ceramide did not markedly alter the differentiation state of the cells as judged by the expression of markers of chondrogenesis and differentiation (sox 9, collagen II and collagen X). The IGF-I signalling pathway is the major autocrine/paracrine regulator of bone growth. Both in the presence and absence of IGF-I, C2-ceramide (25 μM) induced an equivalent reduction in proliferation (60%; P < 0.001). Similarly, C2-ceramide (40 μM) induced a 31% reduction in fetal metatarsal growth both in the presence and absence of IGF-I (both P < 0.001). Furthermore, C2-ceramide reduced ADCT5 proliferation in the presence of AG1024, an IGF-I and insulin receptor blocker. Therefore, C2-ceramide-dependent inhibition appears to be independent of IGF-mediated stimulation of bone growth. Indeed, biochemical studies demonstrated that C2-ceramide (25 μM) pretreatment did not alter IGF-I-stimulated phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1, Akt or P44/42 MAP kinase. In conclusion, C2-ceramide inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in growth plate chondrocytes through an IGF-I independent mechanism.