bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Fluoride on in vitro Enamel Demineralization Analyzed by 19F MAS-NMR
Authors: Mohammed N.R. , Kent N.W. , Lynch R.J.M. , Karpukhina N. , Hill R. , Anderson P.
Published: May 2013

The mechanistic action of fluoride on inhibition of enamel demineralization was investigated using 19F magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR). The aim of this study was to monitor the fluoride-mineral phase formed on the enamel as a function of the concentration of fluoride ions [F-] in the demineralizing medium. The secondary aim was to investigate fluorapatite formation on enamel in the mechanism of fluoride anti-caries efficacy. Enamel blocks were immersed into demineralization solutions of 0.1 M acetic acid (pH 4) with increasing concentrations of fluoride up to 2,262 ppm. At and below 45 ppm [F-] in the solution, 19F MAS-NMR showed fluoride-substituted apatite formation, and above 45 ppm, calcium fluoride (CaF2) formed in increasing proportions. Further increases in [F-] caused no further reduction in demineralization, but increased the proportion of CaF2 formed. Additionally, the combined effect of strontium and fluoride on enamel demineralization was also investigated using 19F MAS-NMR. The presence of 43 ppm [Sr2+] in addition to 45 ppm [F-] increases the fraction of fluoride-substituted apatite, but delays formation of CaF2 when compared to the demineralization of enamel in fluoride-only solution.
Evaluating the Use of an Assistive Listening Device for Communication Efficiency Using the Diapix Task: A Pilot Study
Authors: McInerney Maryrose , Walden Patrick
Published: May 2013

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of assistive listening device (ALD) use on communication efficiency in groups of elderly adults with and without hearing impairment during a structured language sampling task. The relationship between self-perceived hearing handicap and communication efficiency was also explored. Method: Twenty-two subjects completed measures of hearing sensitivity, perceived hearing handicap, cognition, and a language sample. One half of the hearing-impaired participants and one half of the normal-hearing group were randomly assigned to use an ALD during a structured conversation task with a naïve partner. Results: The Hearing Loss/No ALD group had significantly more breakdowns than the Hearing Loss/With ALD group. Further, the Hearing Loss/With ALD group performed statistically similar to the two groups without hearing loss. For the normal-hearing groups as well as the Hearing Loss/No ALD group, self-perceived hearing handicap was significantly correlated with the number of communication breakdowns. Conclusion: The results lent preliminary support for the use of ALDs in the management of hearing loss. A case for functional assessment of communication was made to better illuminate causes of perceived communication handicap in the aural rehabilitation of elderly persons with hearing impairment.
Monoclonal Antibody against α-Actinin 4 from Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Inhibits Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxation
Authors: Won Kyung-Jong , Lee Kang Pa , Kim Dong-Ku , Jung Seung Hyo , Lee Chang-Kwon , Lee Dong Hyen , Yu Su Yeol , Park Se Hyung , Lee Hwan Myung , Kim Bokyung
Published: May 2013

Background: This study was attempted to identify new molecules expressed on the plasma membrane of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) using monoclonal antibody-based proteomics technology and to determine the effect of the identified antibody on vascular reactivity. Methods: Twenty-two antibodies were developed from rats inoculated with HUVECs, and their effects were determined by observing vascular reactivity. Results: Among the 22 antibodies, the C-7 antibody significantly inhibited endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in response to acetylcholine (ACh) but not to histamine. Moreover, the C-7 antibody did not affect norepinephrine-induced contraction in either the endothelium-intact or -denuded aorta. A proteomics study involving immunoprecipitation of the C-7 antibody with biotinylated HUVECs showed that this antibody binds to plasma membrane proteins corresponding to immunoglobulin heavy chain (VHDJ region), chaperonin-containing T-complex polypeptide 1 and α-actinin 4. The muscarinic M3 ACh receptor and α-actinin 4 were colocalized on the plasma membrane of HUVECs, and the colocalization was found to increase in response to ACh and was inhibited by pretreatment with the C-7 antibody. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that monoclonal C-7 antibody exerts an inhibitory effect on endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation induced by ACh and that this response may at least partially result from the inhibition of α-actinin 4.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Vectors for Lung Cancer Therapy
Authors: Kolluri Krishna K. , Laurent Geoff J. , Janes Sam M.
Published: May 2013

Despite recent advances in treatment, lung cancer accounts for one third of all cancer-related deaths, underlining the need of development of new therapies. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess the ability to specifically home into tumours and their metastases. This property of MSCs could be exploited for the delivery of various anti-tumour agents directly into tumours. However, MSCs are not simple delivery vehicles but cells with active physiological process. This review outlines various agents which can be delivered by MSCs with substantial emphasis on TRAIL (tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand).
Tracheal Adenocarcinoma Treated with Adjuvant Radiation: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chowdhury Qamruzzaman , Rahman Md. Arifur , Sultana Latifa , Islam M. Anwarul , Chowdhury Golam Mohiuddin Akbar
Published: May 2013

Primary adenocarcinoma of the trachea is extremely rare and a standard treatment does not exist due to nonavailability of evidence-based randomized control studies. This paper reports the case of a 60-year-old male, who presented with cough and occasional respiratory distress. Bronchoscopic examination and a computed tomography scan revealed a soft tissue mass in the trachea arising from the posterior tracheal wall. Cytological examination and immunochemistry confirmed primary adenocarcinoma of the trachea. Excision of the tumor followed by three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy was performed, and a dose of 56 Gy was delivered to the primary site. Two and a half years after treatment, the patient has no clinical or radiological evidence of the disease, and no late complication has occurred.
Cost-Effectiveness of Ventricular Assist Device Therapy as a Bridge to Transplantation Compared With Nonbridged Cardiac Recipients
Authors: Alba Ana C. , Alba Luis F. , Delgado Diego H. , Rao Vivek , Ross Heather J. , Goeree Ron
Published: May 2013

Background—

Current available treatment options for advanced heart failure include heart transplantation and ventricular assist device (VAD) therapy. This project aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a bridge-to-transplantation (BTT)–VAD approach relative to direct heart transplantation in transplant-eligible patients.

Methods and Results—

A Markov model was used to evaluate survival benefits and costs for BTT-VAD versus nonbridged heart transplant recipients. Three different scenarios were considered according to severity of patients’ baseline hemodynamic status (high, medium, and low risk). Results are presented in terms of survival, costs, and cost-effectiveness ratio. Sensitivity analyses were used to analyze uncertainty in model estimates. Over a 20-year time horizon, BTT-VAD therapy increased survival at an increased cost relative to nonbridged heart transplant recipients: $100 841more in costs and 1.19 increased life years (LYs) in high-risk patients ($84 964/LY), $112 779 more in costs and 1.14 more LYs ($99 039/LY) in medium-risk patients, and an additional cost of $144 334 and incremental clinical benefit of 1.21 more LYs ($119 574/LY) in low-risk patients. The sensitivity analysis estimated a 59%, 54%, and 43% chance of BTT-VAD therapy being cost-effective for high-, medium-, and low-risk patients at a willingness-to-pay level of $100 000/LY. Subgroup analyses indicated that risk of post-VAD and transplantation complications, waiting time, renal dysfunction, and patient age substantially affected the cost-effectiveness ratio.

Conclusions—

BTT-VAD therapy is associated with improved survival and increased costs. On the basis of commonly accepted willingness-to-pay thresholds, BTT-VAD therapy is likely to be cost-effective relative to nonbridged heart transplantation in specific circumstances.
Economic Evaluation of Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion, Dabigatran, and Warfarin for Stroke Prevention in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Singh Sheldon M. , Micieli Andrew , Wijeysundera Harindra C.
Published: May 2013

Background—

Percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion and novel pharmacological therapies are now available to manage stroke risk in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation; however, the cost-effectiveness of LAA occlusion compared with dabigatran and warfarin in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation is unknown.

Methods and Results—

Cost-utility analysis using a patient-level Markov microsimulation decision analytic model with a lifetime horizon was undertaken to determine the lifetime costs, quality-adjusted life years, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of LAA occlusion in relation to dabigatran and warfarin in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation at risk for stroke without contraindications to oral anticoagulation. The analysis was performed from the perspective of the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, the third-party payer for insured health services in Ontario, Canada. Effectiveness and utility data were obtained from the published literature. Cost data were obtained from the Ontario Drug Benefits Formulary and the Ontario Case Costing Initiative. Warfarin therapy had the lowest discounted quality-adjusted life years at 4.55, followed by dabigatran at 4.64 and LAA occlusion at 4.68. The average discounted lifetime cost was $21 429 for a patient taking warfarin, $25 760 for a patient taking dabigatran, and $27 003 for LAA occlusion. Compared with warfarin, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for LAA occlusion was $41 565. Dabigatran was extendedly dominated.

Conclusions—

Percutaneous LAA occlusion represents a novel therapy for stroke reduction that is cost-effective compared with warfarin for patients at risk who have nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
Cuffee's “Relation”: A Faithful Slave Speaks through the Project for the Preservation of Congregational Church Records
Authors: Cooper Jr. James F.
Published: May 2013

The Project for the Preservation of Congregational Church Records collects, catalogs, preserves, digitizes, and transcribes documents that lie scattered in Congregational and Unitarian churches throughout the commonwealth. Cuffee's “Relation,” one slave's spiritual account conveyed in his own words and by his hand, is among the many extraordinary treasures the project seeks to safeguard.
“Where the Body Is, There also the Eagles Will Be Gathered”
Authors: Lang T.J.
Published: May 2013

This article proposes a new reading of the Lukan eagle logion. The interpretation depends on three primary exegetical commitments. First, it respects Luke’s redaction and, thus, resists the temptation to harmonize Luke’s version of the logion with its Matthean counterpart (Matt. 24:28), which places this saying within his apocalyptic discourse in Matthew 24 and has the eagles gathering around a corpse (τὸ πτῶμα). Luke, by contrast, locates the saying within his so-called travel narrative, in the immediate context of a direct address by Jesus to his disciples, and places the eagles around a body (τὸ σῶμα). Second, since regarding Lukan redaction requires a reader to appreciate the narrative context of the saying, it is necessary to respect that the logion occurs in an address by Jesus to his disciples and as an answer to their question. Third, I reconsider the most likely resonances of ἀετοί gathered around a body within the context of Luke’s Gospel and its cultural encyclopedia.   The article contends that the “eagles” correspond to hostile, capturing forces—as they are frequently represented in Jewish literature—and that the “body” corresponds to Jesus himself—as in the five occurrences of the term following Luke 17. Thus Jesus warns his disciples of an impending division among them, and when they ask where this division will occur, he answers with a parabolic prophecy that foreshadows the night of his arrest. The article concludes with a remark on the significance of this reading for the larger question of Lukan eschatology.
On the Exchange of Momentum over the Open Ocean
Authors: Edson James B. , Jampana Venkata , Weller Robert A. , Bigorre Sebastien P. , Plueddemann Albert J. , Fairall Christopher W. , Miller Scott D. , Mahrt Larry , Vickers Dean , Hersbach Hans
Published: May 2013

This study investigates the exchange of momentum between the atmosphere and ocean using data collected from four oceanic field experiments. Direct covariance estimates of momentum fluxes were collected in all four experiments and wind profiles were collected during three of them. The objective of the investigation is to improve parameterizations of the surface roughness and drag coefficient used to estimate the surface stress from bulk formulas. Specifically, the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment (COARE) 3.0 bulk flux algorithm is refined to create COARE 3.5. Oversea measurements of dimensionless shear are used to investigate the stability function under stable and convective conditions. The behavior of surface roughness is then investigated over a wider range of wind speeds (up to 25 m s−1) and wave conditions than have been available from previous oversea field studies. The wind speed dependence of the Charnock coefficient α in the COARE algorithm is modified to , where m = 0.017 m−1 s and b = −0.005. When combined with a parameterization for smooth flow, this formulation gives better agreement with the stress estimates from all of the field programs at all winds speeds with significant improvement for wind speeds over 13 m s−1. Wave age– and wave slope–dependent parameterizations of the surface roughness are also investigated, but the COARE 3.5 wind speed–dependent formulation matches the observations well without any wave information. The available data provide a simple reason for why wind speed–, wave age–, and wave slope–dependent formulations give similar results—the inverse wave age varies nearly linearly with wind speed in long-fetch conditions for wind speeds up to 25 m s−1.
Twitter Use by Presidential Primary Candidates During the 2012 Campaign
Authors: Conway Bethany Anne , Kenski Kate , Wang Di
Published: May 2013

This study examines Twitter use by presidential candidates during the 2012 primary election. The Twitter feeds and activity levels of candidates from the Republican, Democratic, Libertarian, and Americans Elect parties and their campaigns were gathered over a 3-month span. Variables examined include the number of tweets posted, followers gained, and followers added as well as the occurrence of hashtags, user mentions, hyperlinks, and content categories within tweets. Results showed candidates’ presence on Twitter was not uniform. Tweet frequency did not necessarily result in followers gained. Interestingly, the candidates who tweeted the most were not major party nominees. As the Republican primary campaign progressed, the amount of daily tweeting by the candidates was not higher than it had been earlier in the primary season.
Old Testament Preaching from the Lectionary: Challenge, Case Study, and Reflection
Authors: Callaham Scott N.
Published: May 2013

This article reflects upon preaching Old Testament texts from the Revised Common Lectionary in light of a recent three-year experiment of favoring the Old Testament readings for sermon development. Old Testament texts in the lectionary experience re-contextualization due to their appropriation as supporting material for the Synoptic Gospel readings and the metanarrative of the “church year.” Countering the resulting transformation or loss of meaning calls for attention to canonical context, including the trajectory that Old Testament texts themselves set toward New Testament themes.
The Antioch Incident and a Textual Variant: “ΗΛΘΟΝ” or “ΗΛΘΕΝ” in Galatians 2:12
Authors: Yoon David I.
Published: May 2013

The Antioch incident is a crucial event in the history of the early church, especially the key role it plays in the debate regarding the relationship between gospel and law. However, most commentators who discuss this passage pay little attention to an important textual variant, between ἦλθον and ἦλθϵν in Gal 2:12. While most simply take ἦλθον (third person plural) to be the original reading based on internal evidence considerations, I will argue that the evidence suggests an ἦλθϵν (third person singular) reading. This is based primarily on external evidence, but internal evidence is also considered. I will argue that the ἦλθϵν reading makes sense of both external and internal evidence, and fits in well with the context of the narrative.
When do leaders grant voice? How leaders’ perceptions of followers’ control and belongingness needs affect the enactment of fair procedures
Authors: Hoogervorst Niek , De Cremer David , van Dijke Marius
Published: May 2013

Theories that explain employees’ positive emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses to fair procedures rely on control and relational processes. In the present study, we build on these models, but reverse this perspective to examine when leaders provide voice opportunities in their interactions with employees. We argued that leaders may take care of employees’ perceived individual control needs (which influence their own outcomes) by granting them voice. However, this will be the case particularly when leaders perceive that this employee also wants to belong to the organization, because this makes it more likely that employees will use their voice in a way that does not hurt the organization’s interest. Support for this predicted interaction effect was found in a laboratory experiment and a multisource field study. This research is among the first to identify factors that influence whether leaders will be more likely to act fairly, thus integrating procedural justice processes in the leadership literature.
Spread of the Self-Help Group–Bank Linkage Programme in India: Potential Vis-à-vis Achievements
Authors: Tripathi Ashutosh Kumar
Published: May 2013

The Self-Help Group–Bank Linkage Programme (SHG–BLP) was designed with the objective of bridging the prevailing gap in the financial network and spreading banking facilities to the poor in rural and urban areas. This paper examines the progress of SHG–BLP over the last two decades in terms of: (a) the outreach of SHG–BLP; (b) spatial disparity in SHG–BLP; (c) SHG spread with respect to banking and socio-economic indicators; and (d) potential vis-à-vis achievement under the programme in terms of coverage of rural poor population.
Immune Therapeutic Potential of Stem Cells from Human Supernumerary Teeth
Authors: Makino Y. , Yamaza H. , Akiyama K. , Ma L. , Hoshino Y. , Nonaka K. , Terada Y. , Kukita T. , Shi S. , Yamaza T.
Published: May 2013

Discoveries of immunomodulatory functions in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have suggested that they might have therapeutic utility in treating immune diseases. Recently, a novel MSC population was identified from dental pulp of human supernumerary teeth, and its multipotency characterized. Herein, we first examined the in vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory functions of human supernumerary tooth-derived stem cells (SNTSCs). SNTSCs suppressed not only the viability of T-cells, but also the differentiation of interleukin 17 (IL-17)-secreting helper T (Th17) -cells in in vitro co-culture experiments. In addition, systemic SNTSC transplantation ameliorated the shortened lifespan and elevated serum autoantibodies and nephritis-like renal dysfunction in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) model MRL/ lpr mice. SNTSC transplantation also suppressed in vivo increased levels of peripheral Th17 cells and IL-17, as well as ex vivo differentiation of Th17 cells in MRL/ lpr mice. Adoptive transfer experiments demonstrated that SNTSC-transplanted MRL/ lpr mouse-derived T-cell-adopted immunocompromised mice showed a longer lifespan in comparison with non-transplanted MRL/ lpr mouse-derived T-cell-adopted immunocompromised mice, indicating that SNTSC transplantation suppresses the hyper-immune condition of MRL/ lpr mice through suppressing T-cells. Analysis of these data suggests that SNTSCs are a promising MSC source for cell-based therapy for immune diseases such as SLE.
Building Evidence for Music Education Advocacy
Authors: Shorner-Johnson Kevin
Published: May 2013

The economic challenges facing public schools and music education are immense. In this context, music teachers and supporters will need to engage in persuasive advocacy to protect resource allocations to music programs. It is worthwhile to consider the model of music education advocacy that allowed music to be adopted into the Boston Public Schools in the early 1800s. This article uses Aristotle’s structure of ethos, pathos, and logos to provide insight into how the early music education advocates built the tools for persuasion to support music education advocacy. The challenges of using rhetorical language and evidence are addressed, and questions are asked about the future directions for music education advocacy.
Discrimination in a Disaster Agency’s Security Culture
Authors: Roberts Patrick S.
Published: May 2013

The prevalence of security concerns in emergency management offers the unfortunate possibility that administrative processes may tap deep fears and engage in discriminatory practices without sufficient accountability because of secrecy, time pressure, and an organizational culture that calls for preparing for the worst. The Federal Emergency Management Agency was ostensibly intended to be a natural disaster agency, but its security culture in past decades justified plans that would have included discriminatory practices against marginalized groups. These cases should temper expectations about what government can and should do in imagining worst-case scenarios to prepare for emergencies.
Improving the Control of Type I Error Rate in Assessing Differential Item Functioning for Hierarchical Generalized Linear Model When Impact Is Presented
Authors: Chen Jyun-Hong , Chen Cheng-Te , Shih Ching-Lin
Published: May 2013

Hierarchical generalized linear models (HGLMs) have been used to assess differential item functioning (DIF). For model identification, some literature assumed that the reference (majority) and focal (minority) groups have an equal mean ability so that all items in a test can be assessed for DIF. In reality, it is very unlikely that the two groups have an identical mean. If so, other model identification procedures should be adopted. A feasible procedure for model identification is to set an item that is the most likely to be DIF-free as a reference, so that the two groups can have different means and the other items can be assessed for DIF. In Simulation Study 1, several methods based on HGLMs in selecting DIF-free items were compared. In Simulation Study 2, those items assessed as DIF-free were anchored, and the other items were assessed for DIF. This new method was compared with the traditional method based on HGLMs in which the two groups are assumed to have an equal mean in terms of the Type I error rate and the power rate. The results showed that the new method outperformed the traditional method when the two groups did not have an equal mean.
Biomechanical Analysis of Distal Clavicle Excision With Acromioclavicular Joint Reconstruction
Authors: Beaver Andrew B. , Parks Brent G. , Hinton Richard Y.
Published: May 2013

Background:

Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation is a common injury, usually affecting young adults. Controversy exists regarding whether to excise the distal clavicle when surgical intervention is required.

Purpose:

To evaluate the biomechanical strength of AC and coracoclavicular (CC) ligament reconstruction with and without concurrent distal clavicle excision.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Nine matched pairs of cadaver shoulders were used. All shoulders were tested with intact CC and AC ligaments, and the ligaments were sectioned. For 1 shoulder in each pair, a 7-mm distal clavicle excision was performed. The contralateral distal clavicle was left intact. Single-tunnel CC ligament reconstruction was performed, and excess graft length was extended and secured across the AC joint to reconstruct the superior AC joint ligaments in all specimens. Specimens were then potted and cyclically loaded for 500 cycles in the anterior-posterior and superior-inferior planes using an MTS Minibionix load frame to evaluate displacement across the AC joint.

Results:

Regarding the clavicle–intact reconstructed versus the intact state, there was significantly greater AC joint translation in the reconstructed state in the anterior-posterior (20.2 ± 7.0 mm vs 6.0 ± 1.5 mm; P < .001) and superior-inferior directions (12.3 ± 3.3 mm vs 4.2 ± 1.2 mm; P < .001). In the clavicle–excised reconstructed versus the intact state, there was also significantly greater translation in the reconstructed state in the anterior-posterior (21.7 ± 5.1 mm vs 8.9 ± 4.3 mm; P < .001) and superior-inferior directions (12.3 ± 6.1 mm vs 5.8 ± 3.1 mm; P < .001). When the difference in translation between the reconstructed and intact groups in the clavicle-intact versus the clavicle-excised group was compared, no statistically significant difference was noted in anterior-posterior (14.2 ± 7.8 mm vs 12.8 ± 5.0 mm; P = .67) or superior-inferior translation (8.1 ± 2.9 mm vs 6.6 ± 3.9 mm; P = .39).

Conclusion:

Excision of the distal clavicle did not have a significant effect on anterior-posterior or superior-inferior motion at the AC joint following single-tunnel CC and AC ligament reconstruction.

Clinical Relevance:

The study suggests that excision of the distal clavicle in this procedure is not associated with increased anterior-posterior or superior-inferior instability in this model.
Substance Use, Aggression Perpetration, and Victimization
Authors: Margolin Gayla , Ramos Michelle C. , Baucom Brian R. , Bennett Diana C. , Guran Elyse L.
Published: May 2013

Many studies have documented associations of substance use with aggression perpetration and aggression victimization; however, little is known about the co-occurrence of these problem behaviors within the same day in college students. The present study investigated whether substance use and aggression increase the likelihood of each other and whether attitudes justifying aggression strengthen those associations. College student participants ( N = 378, 32% males) self-selected into an online study in which they reported on 2 days of alcohol/drug use and on aggression perpetration and victimization (including physical, psychological and electronic aggression, and sexual coercion) with friends and dating partners. Using regression to test for nonequivalence of predictor and outcome variables, we found bidirectional effects for males only. Males’ substance use was associated with an increased likelihood on the same day of aggression perpetration and of aggression victimization; males’ aggression perpetration and aggression victimization were associated with an increased likelihood of substance use on the same day. Females did not show significant contingencies between substance use and aggression in either direction. Males’ attitudes justifying male-to-female aggression were associated with their aggression perpetration and victimization and their justification of female-to-male aggression strengthened the link between substance use and aggression perpetration. With interpersonal aggression and substance use being significant problems on college campuses, many colleges offer separate preventive intervention programs aimed at these public health challenges; this study suggests possible benefits of an integrated approach that addresses connections between alcohol/drug use and aggression.
Redesigning a Fashion History Course Through Team-Based Learning
Authors: Banning Jennifer , Gam Hae Jin
Published: May 2013

In order to more deeply engage students in understanding and applying concepts in a fashion history course, the traditional lecture-style course that relied primarily on unit exams for assessment was re-designed to use the Team-Based Learning (TBL) approach. Team-Based Learning is a decades-old teaching strategy that combines individual student work (primarily out-of-class) with heterogeneous student team assignments (all in-class). This study investigated the impact of TBL in the re-designed fashion history class on students' learning. Under the TBL model, students completed text readings, study guides, and two projects individually outside of class. Assignments completed regularly in class as teams included quizzes and activities that applied content prepared prior to class. Student response to the new strategy was largely positive, and findings suggested that TBL was an effective method for teaching this fashion history course. Implications of the new strategy and its applications are included.
Blood biomarkers in metal scrap workers accidentally exposed to ionizing radiation
Authors: Gupta ML , Srivastava NN , Dutta S , Shukla SK , Dutta A , Verma S , Devi M
Published: May 2013

The detrimental effect of nuclear accidents due to localized or whole body radiation exposure results in severe cellular damage. The current study was carried out to evaluate radiation-mediated variability in blood components of metal scrap workers exposed accidently to cobalt-60 source. Blood samples collected initially from five hospitalized patients, coded P1–P5, were processed for total leukocyte counts (TLC), platelet (PLT) counts, haemoglobin, estimation of DNA double strand breaks by measuring phosphorylated form of H2AX (γ-H2AX) and chromosomal aberrations (dicentrics). Blood cells count (TLC), in all the patients except P2, was found decreased. Dicentrics increased in all the five patients. γ-H2AX was found significantly elevated in patients P2 and P4. After 3 days, 21 subjects working in close vicinity of accident site were evaluated for the above-mentioned markers to confirm their possibility of radiation exposure; however, all the parameters in these subjects were found within normal limits. Blood from patients P1–P5 was collected again after 11 days. Studies revealed exorbitant increase in γ-H2AX in lymphocytes and monocytes of patients P1, P4 and P5. TLC and PLT count in these patients had fallen further. Dicentrics declined with time in all the five patients. Based on the studied blood biomarkers, we conclude that the five subjects showed signs of radiation exposure. Measurement on radiation dose could not be performed in the current study; however, the generated data particularly on dicentrics provide ample evidence of radiation exposure.
Sensitivity analysis of incomplete longitudinal data departing from the missing at random assumption: Methodology and application in a clinical trial with drop-outs
Authors: Moreno-Betancur M , Chavance M
Published: May 2013

Statistical analyses of longitudinal data with drop-outs based on direct likelihood, and using all the available data, provide unbiased and fully efficient estimates under some assumptions about the drop-out mechanism. Unfortunately, these assumptions can never be tested from the data. Thus, sensitivity analyses should be routinely performed to assess the robustness of inferences to departures from these assumptions. However, each specific scientific context requires different considerations when setting up such an analysis, no standard method exists and this is still an active area of research. We propose a flexible procedure to perform sensitivity analyses when dealing with continuous outcomes, which are described by a linear mixed model in an initial likelihood analysis. The methodology relies on the pattern-mixture model factorisation of the full data likelihood and was validated in a simulation study. The approach was prompted by a randomised clinical trial for sleep-maintenance insomnia treatment. This case study illustrated the practical value of our approach and underlined the need for sensitivity analyses when analysing data with drop-outs: some of the conclusions from the initial analysis were shown to be reliable, while others were found to be fragile and strongly dependent on modelling assumptions. R code for implementation is provided.
The Efficacy and Safety of Oral Anticoagulants in Warfarin-Suitable Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Mitchell Stephen A. , Simon Teresa A. , Raza Syed , Jakouloff David , Orme Michelle E. , Lockhart Ian , Drost Pieter
Published: May 2013

The novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban have been recently indicated for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) . Due to a lack of direct head-to-head trials comparing the NOACs, the current systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) were conducted to assess their relative efficacy and safety. Three phase III randomized controlled trials enrolling 50 578 patients were included. Results of the NMA show a clear trend favoring NOACs over warfarin with regard to the key outcomes of stroke/systemic embolism and all-cause mortality, with apixaban also showing a favorable response for major bleeding and total discontinuations. Although there were few significant differences among the NOACS with regard to efficacy outcomes, apixaban and dabigatran 110 mg were associated with significantly lower hazards of major bleeding compared with dabigatran 150 mg and rivaroxaban. The NOACs offer a therapeutic advance over standard warfarin treatment in stoke prevention in patients with nonvalvular AF.
Oxidative Stress, Trace Elements, and Circulating Microparticles in Patients With Gaucher Disease Before and After Enzyme Replacement Therapy
Authors: Zahran Asmaa M. , Elsayh Khalid I. , El-Deek Sahar E.M. , El-Baz Mona A.H.
Published: May 2013

We studied the level of lipid peroxide, nitric oxide (NO), trace elements (TEs), and microparticles (MPs) in Gaucher disease (GD) before and after 1 year of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). A total of 15 children with GD and 15 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Serum level of lipid peroxide, NO, and TEs was determined. The MPs were detected by flow cytometry. The level of lipid peroxide was significantly higher in the patients than in the controls even after ERT. Although NO level was normalized in the patients after ERT, zinc and copper were still lower in the patients after ERT. The percentages of various MPs were significantly higher in the patients than in the controls both before and after ERT. There were positive correlations between chitotriosidase and both lipid peroxide and total MPs.

Conclusion:

The GD is associated with alteration in oxidant and antioxidant status and high level of circulating MPs.
Presence of Antiheparin/Platelet Factor 4 Immunoglobulin G Is Associated With Poor Prognosis in Patients With Suspected Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Authors: Park Jae Hyeon , Kim Ji-Eun , Kim Hyun Kyung , Han Kyou Sup
Published: May 2013

The underlying inflammatory or infectious condition in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) may stimulate the formation of antiheparin/platelet factor 4 (PF4) antibody, and the resulting antibody may affect the clinical course of DIC. We investigated the prognosis of antiheparin/PF4 antibodies in patients with suspected DIC. We measured heparin/PF4 immunoglobulin G (IgG) and total antibody levels using an automated chemiluminescence system in 118 patients with DIC. Of the 118 patients, 13 (11.0%) patients were positive for total antiheparin/PF4, and 6 (5.1%) patients were positive for antiheparin/PF4 IgG. These 13 patients were negative for platelet-activating antibody and had low-heparin-induced thrombocytopenia probability scores. Patients with antiheparin/PF4 IgG were older and had lower antithrombin levels than patients without antiheparin/PF4 IgG. Patients with antiheparin/PF4 IgG had a higher risk of mortality than those without antiheparin/PF4 IgG. The presence of antiheparin/PF4 IgG in old age or low antithrombin level patients with DIC with old age or low antithrombin level suggests a poor prognosis.
Sexually Intrusive Behavior Among Alleged CSA Male Victims
Authors: Hershkowitz Irit
Published: May 2013

Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) is one widely cited risk factor for Sexually Intrusive Behavior (SIB) among boys. To identify variables that moderate the early onset of SIB in a sample of boys, alleged victims of sexual abuse, the current study involved a prospective examination of all investigations of male CSA victims and those of boys aged under 14 who were suspected of committing SIBs on other children in Israel over a 10-year period. Comparing victims with and without SIB records revealed differences on personal and family factors as well as on the characteristics of abuse. A regression model controlling for age and family factors correctly classified over three quarters of the subjects based on reported experiences of abuse. The data help identify characteristics of the abuse that facilitate the early onset of SIB among male victims of CSA.
Long-Term Outcomes of ADHD
Authors: Harpin V. , Mazzone L. , Raynaud J. P. , Kahle J. , Hodgkins P.
Published: May 2013

Objective: To compare the long-term self-esteem and social function outcomes of individuals with untreated and treated ADHD across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Method: A systematic search of 12 databases was performed to identify peer-reviewed, primary research articles, published January 1980 to December 2011, reporting long-term self-esteem and/or social function outcomes (≥2 years; life consequences distinct from symptoms) of individuals with untreated or treated ADHD. Results: Overall, 127 studies reported 150 outcomes. Most outcomes were poorer in individuals with untreated ADHD versus non-ADHD controls (57% [13/23] for self-esteem; 73% [52/71] for social function). A beneficial response to treatment (pharmacological, nonpharmacological, and multimodal treatments) was reported for the majority of self-esteem (89% [8/9]) and social function (77% [17/22]) outcomes. Conclusion: Untreated ADHD was associated with poorer long-term self-esteem and social function outcomes compared with non-ADHD controls. Treatment for ADHD was associated with improvement in outcomes; however, further long-term outcome studies are needed.
Angelica gets the spirit out: Improvisation, epiphany and transformation
Authors: Pignato Joseph
Published: May 2013

This article presents excerpts from a case study describing Angelica Dawson, a New York State music educator. Angelica makes improvisation a central part of her curricula in ways that transcend traditional offerings prevalent in American public schools. Qualitative research methods were used to document Angelica’s work over the course of an academic year at a rural public school in New York State. Data collection utilized ethnographic techniques including interviews, observations and informal conversations. Data analysis employed interpretive coding guided by a constant comparative approach. Analysis revealed challenges posed by teaching improvisation in the school music context, including: conflicts with tradition; conflicts with the expectations of colleagues, parents, students, and administrators, and standing apart from the prevailing practices of colleagues. Angelica’s story suggests that teachers who break from traditional pedagogical practices face profound challenges and feelings of isolation.
First-line urological evaluation in multiple sclerosis: validation of a specific decision-making algorithm
Authors: Amarenco Gérard , Chartier-Kastler Emmanuel , Denys Pierre , Jean Jacques Labat , de Sèze Marianne , Lubetzski Catherine
Published: May 2013

Background:

Urinary disorders that lead to urological complications are frequent in multiple sclerosis, resulting in diminished quality of life. Urinary management guidelines are scarce and targeted to neuro-urology specialists.

Objective:

This study aimed to construct and validate an algorithm dedicated to neurologists and general practitioners to facilitate first-line evaluation and treatment of urinary disorders associated with multiple sclerosis.

Methods:

49 items concerning urological symptom evaluation and therapeutic strategies were derived from literature analysis and evaluated by an expert panel. The Delphi method established consensus between the experts and allowed development of the First-Line Urological Evaluation in Multiple Sclerosis (FLUE-MS) algorithm. Two questions from the Urinary Bothersome Questionnaire in Multiple Sclerosis were included and their validation to verify comprehensiveness and acceptability was also conducted.

Results:

Three rounds of expert review obtained consensus of all 49 items and allowed finalisation of the algorithm. Comprehension and acceptability of two Urinary Bothersome Questionnaire in Multiple Sclerosis questions were verified (mean comprehensiveness score: 1.99/2 [99.7% total comprehensiveness], mean acceptability score: 1.99/2 [99.1% complete acceptability]).

Conclusion:

The FLUE-MS algorithm was designed for neurologists and general practitioners, enabling identification of ‘red flags’, timely patient referral to specialist neuro-urology units, and appropriate first-line therapy.
Learning from errors: what is the return on investment from training medical students in incident review?
Authors: Davey Peter , Tully Vicki , Grant Aileen , Day Richard , Ker Jean , Marr Carrie , Mires Gary , Nathwani Dilip
Published: May 2013

Prescribing errors made by junior doctors are rare only due to lack of knowledge or technical skills. Final Year medical students were given the opportunity to investigate medication incidents involving junior doctors. However long-term sustainability of this activity requires evidence about return on investment for NHS Tayside who assist in supporting medical students. Kirkpatrick's model for evaluating training programmes has been adapted for evaluation of medical education. We address all four levels of Kirkpatrick's model for training medical students in incident reporting, discuss other models and emphasis the importance of return on investment. Examples of organizational learning highlighted in the pilot study suggest that incident review by medical students can provide fresh insights into achieving the “not-seeking-to-blame” culture. Incident Review is now a core activity for all final year medical students at the University of Dundee. Plans to engage with NHS Tayside in an iterative learning cycle that begins and ends with evaluation are underway.
‘A failure of language’: Achieving layers of meaning in graphic journalism
Authors: Schack Todd
Published: May 2013

The power and the promise of the genre of graphic journalism (or graphic non-fiction) resides not simply in the form’s juxtaposition of text and image, but in the manners in which such juxtaposition is able to create an emotive immediacy and a visceral impact that is the aim of the best of literary journalism. Further, when certain subjects, especially those of a serious nature such as Israeli/Palestinian violence or the drug-related carnage of Juárez, Mexico, are represented via this medium (as in Joe Sacco’s Palestine and Charles Bowden’s Dreamland, respectively), this immediacy and impact are accomplished through certain formalistic devices that the genre is particularly suited to deliver. This article seeks to show the way in which one such example, Dreamland, is instructive in creating a powerful journalistic representation of a subject via this image/text relationship.
Intersecting journeys in creating learning communities in executive education
Authors: Beechler Schon , Ciporen Rachel , Yorks Lyle
Published: May 2013

This article explores the findings from an action research project which tracked the evolution of The Executive Program (EP) (a pseudonym), a four-week open enrollment senior executive program at a major university in the United States. The decade-long journey grew from a program redesign initiative to a process of ongoing change through insider action research. Through the process the faculty director and collaborating faculty unexpectedly experienced an epistemological shift. The EP was transformed from a traditional ‘teacher as expert’ model with a focus on cognitive learning to a holistic learning community that emphasized broader participant involvement and a wider range of learning approaches. This article is the product of the authors' collaborative meaning-making through the lens of developmental action inquiry and adult learning theory.
Using Monte Carlo Simulation to Calculate Match Importance
Authors: Lahvička Jiří
Published: May 2013

This article presents a new method of calculating match importance. Match importance is defined as strength of relationship between the match result and a given season outcome. Probabilities of all necessary match result-season outcome combinations are estimated by Monte Carlo simulation. Using actual results of 12 seasons of English Premier League and betting odds, it is shown that both match result and season outcome predictions are realistic. The method provides results that are close to Jennett’s approach; however, it does not require ex post information and can be used for any type of season outcome.
Physical Activity Among Somali Men in Minnesota
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed A. , Hassan Abdullahi M. , Weis Jennifer A. , Sia Irene G. , Wieland Mark L.
Published: May 2013

Immigrants and refugees arrive to the United States healthier than the general population, but this advantage declines with increasing duration of residence. One factor contributing to this decline is suboptimal physical activity, but reasons for this are poorly understood. Persons from Somalia represent the largest African refugee population to the United States, yet little is known about perceptions of physical activity among Somali men. Somali members of a community-based participatory research partnership implemented three age-stratified focus groups and three semistructured interviews among 20 Somali men in Rochester, Minnesota. Team-based inductive analysis generated themes for barriers and facilitators to physical activity. Barriers to physical activity included less walking opportunities in the United States, embarrassment about exercise clothing and lack of familiarity with exercise equipment/modalities, fear of harassment, competing priorities, facility costs, transportation, and winter weather. Facilitators to physical activity included high knowledge about how to be active, success stories from others in their community as inspiration, and community cohesion. Findings may be used to derive interventions aimed to promote physical activity among Somali men in the United States.