bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A description and illustration of the Triadic Relations Model: Who perceives whom as bullying whom?
Authors: Card Noel A. , Rodkin Philip C. , Garandeau Claire F.
Published: June 2010

Analyses of children’s peer relations have recently begun considering interpersonal behaviors and perceptions from the perspective of the Social Relations Model. An extension of this model, the Triadic Relations Model (TRM), allows for consideration and analysis of more complex three-person data to understand triadic processes; separate individual, dyadic, and triadic variance; and model co-occurrences among dyadic phenomena. The goal of this article is to provide a didactic introduction to the TRM and its potential for studying peer relations. The TRM is applied to data from nine classes (N = 162) of third and fourth grade boys and girls involving perceptions (peer nominations) of actors’ (aggressors’) behavior toward partners (victims). We report and illustrate interpretation of 7 variance and 16 covariance estimates from this TRM analysis of who perceives whom as bullying whom. In particular, triadic analyses revealed a tendency for children to perceive others as sharing the same aggressors and the same targets for aggression as themselves. We discuss implications of findings for studying aggression, as well as extensions of this model, such as incorporating multiple constructs or connecting the TRM estimates with individual and dyadic variables, and challenges of using the TRM.
Derrida, friendship and the transcendental priority of the ‘untimely’
Authors: Reynolds Jack
Published: June 2010

This article examines Derrida’s insistence on the contretemps that breaks open time, paying particular attention to Politics of Friendship and the way in which this book envisages the ‘untimely’ as both interrupting, and making possible, friendship. Although I suggest that Derrida’s temporal deconstruction of the Aristotelian distinction between utility and ‘perfect’ friendships is convincing, I also argue that Derrida’s own account of friendship is itself touched by time, in the peculiar sense of ‘touched’ that connotes affected and wounded. Derrida’s work instantiates what Husserl might call a transcendental pathology, in that it intermittently instantiates an ethics of non-presentist time (the time which is also the transcendental condition for the event of friendship), and, by contrast, disparages the significance of what we might call an ethics of phronesis, a ‘lived’ friendship of ‘omni-temporal’ dispositions, and embodied and habitual patterns. I end this article by proposing a dialectic between the disjunctive and conjunctive aspects of time that does not accord any kind of a priori privilege to the one over the other.
Conscience, the remnant and the witness: Genealogical remarks on Giorgio Agamben’s ethics
Authors: Ojakangas Mika
Published: June 2010

In Remnants of Auschwitz, Giorgio Agamben argues that every ethical doctrine that claims to be founded on the notions of responsibility and guilt, even if ‘interiorized and moved outside law’ in the form of moral conscience, is necessarily ‘insufficient and opaque’. Indeed, one of the basic intents of the book is to profane and to neutralize the notions of guilt and responsibility as the paradigms of ethical thought, and to remove the idea of conscience from the sphere of ethics. In this article, my aim is to bring out some ‘opacities’ that occur in Agamben’s own analyses. To Agamben, the ‘witness-remnant’ is an ethical notion that shows the way beyond the interiorized juridical categories of conscience, whereas I argue that both the witness and the remnant are notions intimately and even inseparably linked with the western history of conscience. Conscience has been a witness from the very beginning of its appearance in the classical period of Greece. In the Christian era, moreover, conscience became a remnant, even the remnant, remaining of the original moral integrity that had been lost by humankind in the Fall. At the end of the article, I argue that instead of succeeding in profaning the theological/ juridical notion of conscience, Agamben’s ‘witness-remnant’ merely secularizes it in the Schmittian sense.
A risky business: An examination of Irish probation officers’ attitudes towards risk assessment
Authors: Fitzgibbon Wendy , Hamilton Claire , Richardson Michelle
Published: June 2010

This article examines recent research on risk assessment and probation practice in Ireland and relates the findings to the ongoing debate regarding risk management practices in probation. The piece discusses current theoretical arguments on the influence of risk in criminal justice and outlines the impact of risk discourse on probation practice in Ireland and England and Wales. Using a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods, Irish probation officers’ attitudes are examined in order to highlight key issues facing probation officers when making risk decisions. These findings are compared and contrasted to other research results from England and Wales. All the conclusions identify both positive and negative consequences of adopting risk tools and point to the continued salience of clinical judgment over actuarial methods of risk assessment. It is argued that the research highlights the role of ‘resistance’ by criminal justice professionals in mediating the effects of the ‘new penology’ at the level of implementation. The idea of resistance holds particular relevance for probation practice in Ireland where professional discretion is maintained within the National Standards framework. Despite this, to date there has been an uncritical approach taken to risk assessment which may ignore the dangers of risk inflation/deflation and the need to take into account local factors in assessing risk of reoffending.
Dialogue between Evangelicals and Orthodox: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Grass Tim
Published: June 2010

This article examines the legacy of misunderstanding and antagonism that has resulted from the history of past encounters between the Evangelical and Orthodox traditions, as a background for evaluation of more recent dialogues within the WCC and at the level of the Christian World Communions. On the basis of this, suggestions are offered regarding the parameters within which future dialogue could best be conducted. It is argued that such dialogue should be marked by integrity of methodology and realistic expectations; it should be relational and spiritual in character, and open to exploring possibilities for joint co-operation. There is much to gain from such dialogue, but it will not take place unless those with a vision for it take steps to make it a reality.
Christian Unity? The Opportunities and Challenges Raised by the Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements
Authors: Hocken Peter
Published: June 2010

This article addresses the issue of Christian unity in relation to the Pentecostal and charismatic movements. Changing attitudes of Evangelicals and Pentecostals to ecumenism over the past century are noted, with a serious deterioration in the 1960s. Today there is a new situation. These movements have become larger and more influential, especially in the ‘global south’.These movements have contributed to a greater awareness of the Holy Spirit and have challenged the rationalistic reductionism of the Gospel opening the Churches to a more holistic vision.The article closes with a series of challenges to these movements, biblical, pastoral and theological.
Jesus and the Spirits: What Can We Learn from the New Testament World?
Authors: Evans Craig A.
Published: June 2010

The present study explores in what ways the name of Jesus was invoked by Pagans, Jews, and Christians. It is shown that in contrast to famous worthies of the past, such as Solomon and the patriarchs, whose reputations grew over the centuries, the name of Jesus was invoked during his public ministry and continued for centuries following the Easter proclamation. Besides important texts, the artifactual evidence is also examined.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of Dideco’s paediatric cardiopulmonary circuit for neonates weighing less than five kilograms
Authors: Thiara AS , Eggereide V. , Pedersen T. , Lindberg H. , Fiane AE
Published: June 2010

The neonate cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit, including a KIDS D100 oxygenator (The Sorin Group, Mirandola, Italy) and a D130 arterial filter (The Sorin Group), was evaluated in vitro with respect to the removal of free micro gas bubbles. No gas bubbles > 40µm were measured after the arterial filter D130 upon manual introduction of 10 ml of air into the venous line or during the use of vacuum-assisted venous drainage (VAVD). The D130 arterial filter removed 88 % of gas bubbles < 40 µm during manual introduction of air into the venous line; however, only 50 % of gas bubbles < 40 µm were removed during the use of VAVD.

The same CPB circuit was evaluated in vivo to compare with another CPB circuit, including a D901 oxygenator (The Sorin Group) and arterial filter D736 (The Sorin Group), in 155 neonates weighing ≤5 kg. The D100 circuit required significantly less priming volume than the D901 circuit. Postoperative haemoglobin was significantly higher, artificial ventilation time was significantly shorter and postoperative bleeding was significantly less in the D100 group. This neonate CPB circuit effectively removed the gas bubbles and required up to 37% less priming volume and, thus, decreased the need for blood transfusion.
Patients’ expectations and actual use of custom-made orthopaedic shoes
Authors: van Netten Jaap J , Jannink Michiel JA , Hijmans Juha M , Geertzen Jan HB , Postema Klaas
Published: June 2010

Objective: To investigate the association between patients’ expectations and the actual use of custom-made orthopaedic shoes.

Design: A prospective cohort study with internal comparison.

Setting: Twelve orthopaedic shoe companies.

Patients: During six months, consecutive patients who were provided with their first ever pair of orthopaedic shoes and aged 16 years or older were recruited. A total of 339 patients with different pathologies were included (response 67%). Mean (SD) age of the patients was 63 (15) years, and 129 patients (38%) were male.

Main measures: A practical and reproducible questionnaire, measuring: frequency of use of orthopaedic shoes, patients’ expectations and experiences of aspects of the usability of orthopaedic shoes, and communication about patients’ expectations.

Results: Patients’ expectations were not associated with the use of orthopaedic shoes (P-values range: 0.106 to 0.607), but the difference between expectations and experiences was (P-values range: <0.001 to 0.012). The expectations of patients who frequently used their orthopaedic shoes were in concordance with their experiences, whereas the expectations of patients who did not use their orthopaedic shoes were much higher than their experiences. There was no communication of patients’ expectations with the medical specialist or orthopaedic shoe technician in 34% and 25% of the patients respectively.

Conclusions: In relation to the actual use of orthopaedic shoes, it is crucial that patients’ expectations are not much higher than their experiences.
Prioritizing patients for Community Rehabilitation Services: do clinicians agree on triage decisions?
Authors: Harding Katherine E , Taylor Nicholas F , Leggat Sandra G , Wise Vicki L
Published: June 2010

Objective: To evaluate agreement between independent clinician raters using a triage protocol to prioritize referrals for occupational therapy and physiotherapy within a community rehabilitation program.

Design: The priority category allocated to consecutive referrals by one of six clinicians in the referral office was compared with a second rating made by an independent occupational therapist, blinded to the initial priority rating.

Setting: A centralized referral office staffed by allied health and nursing professionals designed as a single point of access for sub acute and ambulatory services within a large metropolitan health network.

Participants: 214 referrals for adults requiring community based occupational therapy or physiotherapy rehabilitation for orthopaedic, neurological or other conditions (such as falls or cardio-respiratory conditions).

Main Measure: Agreement (weighted kappa = κw) between the two ratings.

Results: Overall agreement was moderate (κw = 0.60), but disagreement occurred in 30% of cases. Professional discipline of the raters did not affect agreement. Agreement varied between diagnostic subgroups, with significantly lower agreement for referrals for rehabilitation following elective orthopaedic surgery (κw = 0.25) than the other categories combined. Differences in agreement were observed between the four triage categories, with the lowest observed agreement in the most urgent category.

Conclusions: Clinicians in a centralized model of triage showed only moderate agreement when making decisions about client priority for community rehabilitation for occupational therapy and physiotherapy.
Injury Reduction Effectiveness of Assigning Running Shoes Based on Plantar Shape in Marine Corps Basic Training
Authors: Knapik Joseph J. , Trone Daniel W. , Swedler David I. , Villasenor Adriana , Bullock Steve H. , Schmied Emily , Bockelman Timothy , Han Peggy , Jones Bruce H.
Published: June 2010

Background: Shoe manufacturers market motion control, stability, and cushioned shoes for plantar shapes defined as low, normal, and high, respectively. This assignment procedure is presumed to reduce injuries by compensating for differences in running mechanics.

Hypothesis: Assigning running shoes based on plantar shape will not reduce injury risk in Marine Corps basic training.

Study Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods: After foot examinations, Marine Corps recruits in an experimental group (E: 408 men, 314 women) were provided motion control, stability, or cushioned shoes for plantar shapes indicative of low, medium, or high arches, respectively. A control group (C: 432 men, 257 women) received a stability shoe regardless of plantar shape. Injuries during the 12 weeks of training were determined from outpatient visits obtained from the Defense Medical Surveillance System. Other known injury risk factors (eg, fitness, smoking, prior physical activity) were obtained from a questionnaire, existing databases, or the training units.

Results: Cox regression indicated little difference in injury risk between the E and C groups among men (hazard ratio [E/C] = 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.82-1.24) or women (hazard ratio [E/C] = 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.70-1.10).

Conclusion: This prospective study demonstrated that assigning shoes based on the shape of the plantar foot surface had little influence on injuries even after considering other injury risk factors.
Jute fiber reinforced polypropylene composite: effect of chemical treatment by benzenediazonium salt in neutral medium
Authors: Alamgir Kabir M. , Monimul Huque M. , Rabiul Islam M.
Published: June 2010

Jute fiber was treated with o-, m-, and p-hydroxybenzenediazonium salts in neutral media. These modified and raw jute fibers were used to prepare jute-polypropylene (PP) composite containing 20, 25, 30, and 35% by weight fraction. Mechanical properties of composites were studied. It was found that the increase in fiber content reduces the mechanical properties of jute-PP composite. However, treated jute fiber imparts better mechanical properties to jute-PP composite than the raw jute fiber. o-Hydroxybenzenediazonium salt (o-HBDS) treated jute-PP composites are found to be the best composite from the point of view of mechanical properties.
Behavior of RC beams strengthened with inclined CFRP strips
Authors: Tanarslan HM
Published: June 2010

An experimental program was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of inclined CFRP strip usage to ultimate shear capacity. Practical application for the use of mechanical anchorages was also experimentally investigated in this study. According to the objective of the study, six beams except the flexural reference were fabricated with shear deficiency (without internal shear reinforcements). One shear deficient specimen was tested without strengthening to serve as a reference to shear deficiency. Two shear deficient specimens were strengthened with side bonded inclined CFRP strips. Specially developed mechanical anchorage detail and wrapped strip application was carried out for the remaining specimens to experience their effect to shear capacity. CFRP strip arrangement, CFRP wrapping schemes, and the anchorage used to fasten the strips to the concrete were the selected variables of the experimental program. Test results confirmed that all in all an increase in strength was seen in every specimen to which inclined CFRP strips were applied besides no occurrence of delamination; debonding was seen for the specimens with anchorage. To verify the reliability of the tested specimens, experimental results were compared with ACI 440 guideline consumptions.
Metabolic Effects of Cyclic Parenteral Nutrition Infusion in Adults and Children
Authors: Stout Stephen Marc , Cober M. Petrea
Published: June 2010

Background: Cyclic (discontinuous) infusion of parenteral nutrition (PN) presents a clear practical advantage over continuous 24‐hour infusion in patients receiving long‐term or home PN. It is important for nutrition support clinicians to recognize the metabolic consequences of cyclic infusion. Methods: A literature search was conducted through PubMed (1948 to December 2009) and MEDLINE (1950 to November 2009) using the search term parenteral nutrition plus any of the following: cycling, cycle, cyclic, discontinuous, intermittent, bolus. Prospective clinical studies characterizing the metabolic effects of cyclic PN infusion in humans and their references were reviewed. Results: Twenty‐five studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Sample sizes were 4‐65 (18 studies examined ≤20 patients, 9 examined ≤10 patients). Eight studies had important design elements that limit interpretability. Cyclic and continuous PN infusions result in similar nitrogen balance and circulating counterregulatory hormone concentrations. Following PN infusion, carbohydrate oxidation decreases, fat oxidation increases, and the respiratory quotient decreases. In acutely ill mechanically ventilated patients, carbon dioxide production increases. Cyclic infusion may stabilize liver function tests in some patients with mild hyperbilirubinemia (≤20 ng/mL) on continuous PN infusion. Abrupt infusion initiation may cause hyperglycemia. Abrupt discontinuation may cause hypoglycemia, predominantly in children younger than 2‐3 years old, which may decrease with infusion tapering. Cyclic PN infusion is not associated with increased daily calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, or vitamin D losses. Conclusions: These results indicate a favorable risk–benefit profile of cyclic PN infusion in most patients receiving long‐term or home PN, in support of current practices.
Dietitians and Small Bowel Feeding Tube Placement
Authors: Marsland Cheryl
Published: June 2010

Some advanced practice nutrition support dietitians have added small bowel feeding tube placement to their scope of responsibility. This is due, in part, to the challenges of gaining early enteral access in patients with functioning GI tracts. Emerging literature supports the practice of skilled practitioners placing feeding tubes at bedside. A variety of methods can be used to place tubes at the bedside. The nutrition support dietitian must understand licensure and liability considerations to perform this invasive procedure. This article will review literature reports of dietitians placing feeding tubes and provide information on the methods used, training and competencies required, and legal issues involved.
Use of Home Parenteral Nutrition in Patients With Intra‐abdominal Desmoid Tumors
Authors: Shatnawei Abdullah , Hamilton Cynthia , Quintini Cristiano , Steiger Ezra , Kirby Donald F.
Published: June 2010

Background: Fistulae, small bowel obstruction (SBO), and malabsorption are complications of intra‐abdominal desmoid (IAD) tumors that require home parenteral nutrition (HPN). HPN outcomes in patients with IAD tumors have not been previously reported. The aim of this study was to compare some of the nutrition parameters and complications of HPN in patients with IAD with a control group of patients on HPN. Methods: This was a case‐control study of patients and randomly selected controls who required HPN because of fistulae, SBO, or malabsorption and were managed by the Cleveland Clinic Nutrition Support Team between 1990 and 2008. Variables included demographics, indications, number of episodes, duration of HPN, number of admissions and complications related to HPN, and nutrition parameters. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used. Results: Eighteen of 1615 HPN patients (1.1%) had IAD. For the study, 58 patients were included: 14 with IAD and 44 controls. Four IAD patients did not have complete medical records. IAD patients had longer duration of HPN (P = .015), were younger (P = .028), and were more likely to receive HPN for malabsorption (P < .001). Body mass index (BMI), serum albumin level, protein intake provided at the beginning of HPN, energy intake provided at the start and end of HPN, mortality, and complications were comparable between groups. At the end of HPN, IAD patients received significantly more protein and had lower serum albumin levels compared with controls. Conclusions: HPN for IAD patients maintained BMI but did not increase serum albumin concentration despite receiving more protein than controls. IAD patients did not have increased HPN‐related complications.
Role of Esophageal Stents in the Nutrition Support of Patients With Esophageal Malignancy
Authors: Bower Matthew , Jones Whitney , Vessels Ben , Scoggins Charles , Martin Robert
Published: June 2010

Endoluminal stents are commonly used for palliative treatment of dysphagia in patients with advanced esophageal malignancies. The most frequently used esophageal stents are self‐expanding metal stents. Removable self‐expanding plastic stents have recently been used in the management of esophageal cancer patients treated with curative intent. Esophageal stents effectively alleviate dysphagia in most patients, and stent placement is associated with a low rate of complications. This article reviews the use of self‐expanding esophageal stents in patients with esophageal cancer. Nutrition considerations following stent placement are addressed.
The growing educational divide in mothers’ employment: an investigation based on the German micro-censuses 1976-2004
Authors: Konietzka Dirk , Kreyenfeld Michaela
Published: June 2010

This article investigates whether the increase in the labour force participation of mothers in western Germany has been accompanied by growing social inequalities in maternal employment. The focus is on education-related differences in full-time, part-time and marginal employment, and, in particular, changes therein over time. It is assumed that worsening labour market opportunities for the less educated and a ‘familialistic’ social policy context have resulted in growing differentials in mothers’ employment by education. Data from the scientific use files of the German micro-censuses for the years 1976 to 2004 show that the part-time and marginal employment rates of mothers have increased, while full-time employment rates have declined. Reductions in full-time employment are most pronounced among less educated mothers, resulting in growing educational differences in the employment of mothers.
Labour market structures and women’s employment levels
Authors: Buchmann Marlis C. , Kriesi Irene , Sacchi Stefan
Published: June 2010

With the rise in women’s part-time work in many Western industrialised countries, a better understanding of women’s employment decisions necessitates the distinction between different employment levels and varying structural opportunities that facilitate or hinder female employment. This article analyses for Switzerland how structural factors affect women’s decisions to work marginal part-time, substantial par t-time, full-time or to stay out of the labour force. The analyses are based on the Swiss Labour Force Survey. The logistic regression findings show that labour market and firm-related opportunity structures affect the three types of employment levels differently. They also play a much larger role in the probability of working marginal part-time than in that of working substantial part-time or full-time.
Measuring the prevalence of self-managing teams: taking account of defining characteristics
Authors: Nijholt Jurriaan J. , Benders Jos
Published: June 2010

Self-managing teams are considered a hallmark of employee participation and high-performance work practices. However, the results of research into their prevalence are usually incomparable, since sources use varied and divergent operationalisations. Building on recent studies that measure team prevalence, we propose our own operational definition of teams, and suggest suitable items for their measurement. We thereby aim to encourage standardisation in the measurement of team prevalence.
Ethics and the Engineer: Developing the Basis of a Theological Approach
Authors: Bowen W. Richard
Published: June 2010

Engineers have made an enormous contribution to promoting human wellbeing. Their work can also be the cause of immense human suffering. However, theological approaches to engineering ethics are scarce. Good starting points for a theological approach are provided by the ethics of Buber and Levinas, especially when combined with the idea of engineering as a practice in MacIntyre’s sense. A further strengthening of the importance of persons and a strong emphasis on the significance of community can be introduced through consideration of the theology of Zizioulas, Dussel and Yannaras. This can provide the context for the consideration of the work of engineers as a para-eucharistic activity, a creative means of promoting the communion of persons through contribution to material wellbeing. Specific examples are given of how such a theological approach suggests reprioritisations of the role of engineers in promoting peace, of the contribution of engineers to removing infrastructural poverty in developing countries, and of the responsibilities of engineers in developed countries.
Education as Soulcraft: Exemplary Intellectual Practice and the Cardinal Virtues
Authors: Floyd Shawn
Published: June 2010

Gilbert Meilaender argues that universities should eschew efforts to improve students’ moral character. I show that Meilaender’s arguments fail to offer any cogent reason for shunning university-based moral education. I then look to Thomas Aquinas in order to explain the connection between moral virtue and the practices common in university life. Using Aquinas as a guide, I argue that exemplary intellectual practice requires virtues that are subsidiary habits of the cardinal moral virtues themselves. The implication of this argument is as follows: students require scrupulous moral training if they are to engage in exemplary intellectual practice.
The Translation of Bonhoeffer’s Ethics: A Response to Jennifer Moberly
Authors: Green Clifford J.
Published: June 2010

Moberly’s article is based on the premise that the translation of Bonhoeffer’s Ethics in the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works is a critical edition. This article discusses the nature of translation, why this premise is indefensible, and points out many problematic judgments that flow from it and related assumptions. While recognising that errors occur in translations, the response affirms the scholarly value of the translation.
Cardiovascular risk factors in primary Sjögren's syndrome: a case-control study in 624 patients
Authors: Pérez-De-Lis M. , Akasbi M. , Sisó A. , Diez-Cascon P. , Brito-Zerón P. , Diaz-Lagares C. , Ortiz J. , Perez-Alvarez R. , Ramos-Casals M. , Coca A.
Published: June 2010

We evaluated the prevalence and clinical significance of cardiovascular risk factors in a large series of patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), focusing on the possible association with clinical and immunological SS features, the therapies administered, and the impact on cardiovascular disease. The study cohort included 312 patients fulfilling the 2002 classification criteria for primary SS, consecutively evaluated and followed in our department between 1984 and 2009. The control group consisted of 312 age- and sex-matched patients without systemic autoimmune diseases followed during the study period in a primary care centre.

In comparison with the age- and sex-matched control group, patients with primary SS showed a higher frequency of diabetes mellitus (27% versus 13%, p < 0.001) and hypertriglyceridaemia (22% versus 15%, p = 0.023), and a lower frequency of hypertension (30% versus 46%, p < 0.001) and smoking (19% versus 31%, p < 0.001). The adjusted, multivariate analysis showed that SS patients with at least three cardiovascular risk factors had a higher mean age at SS diagnosis (p < 0.001), a higher frequency of liver involvement (p = 0.01) and central nervous system involvement (p = 0.001), higher mean levels of C-reactive protein (CRP, p = 0.001), a lower percentage of circulating gamma globulins (p = 0.001), and had received corticosteroids more frequently (p = 0.003) in comparison with patients without cardiovascular risk factors. Patients who had received corticosteroids showed a higher frequency of hypertension (37% versus 25%, p = 0.032), diabetes mellitus (37% versus 21%, p = 0.002), and hypertriglyceridaemia (33% versus 15%, p < 0.001).

Patients with primary SS showed a twofold higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus and a 1.5-fold higher prevalence of hypertriglyceridaemia in comparison with primary care patients. Corticosteroid use was closely associated with cardiovascular risk factors. These results suggest that cardiovascular risk factors should be taken into account in the management of patients with primary SS and show the importance of recognizing and controlling both traditional and SS-related modifiable risk factors.
Chemosis as a presenting symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Peponis V. , Chalkiadakis S. , Ergin S. , Kyttaris VC
Published: June 2010

We present a case of chemosis (conjunctival edema) as an early manifestation of severe systemic lupus erythematosus affecting multiple organs, including the central nervous system and the kidneys.
Co-Occurrence of ADHD and High IQ
Authors: Cordeiro Mara L. , Farias Antonio C. , Cunha Alexandre , Benko Cássia R. , Farias Lucilene G. , Costa Maria T. , Martins Leandra F. , McCracken James T.
Published: June 2010

Objective: The validity of a diagnosis of ADHD in children with a high intelligence quotient (IQ) remains controversial. Using a multidisciplinary approach, rigorous diagnostic criteria, and worldwide-validated psychometric instruments, we identified a group of children attending public schools in southern Brazil for co-occurrence of high IQ and ADHD. Method: Students attending public schools, in the first to fifth grades, were referred to our Research Center for behavioral and/or learning difficulties. These children completed clinical, psychiatric, psychological, and pedagogical evaluations for assessment of IQ, ADHD, learning, and other emotional or behavioral disorders. Results: Fifteen of the participants were identified to have a full-scale IQ ≥ 120. Data show that 10 of these high-IQ children met the DSM-IV criteria diagnosis for ADHD combined type, 5 met criteria for current oppositional-defiant disorder, 2 had current major depression, and 2 had a learning disorder. Here we present the results as a case series. Conclusion: Our data support the hypothesis that ADHD is a valid diagnosis in children with high IQs.
Measuring the Indirect Effect: Voter Initiatives and Legislative Production in the American States
Authors: Randolph Gregory M.
Published: June 2010

Recent research has identified important policy differences between voter initiative states and pure representative states despite a lack of enough observable voter initiative campaigns to explain the policy differences. This article investigates the indirect effects of the voter initiative process on legislative production by estimating the number of bills enacted in the American states. The results indicate that legislators in voter initiative states enact more legislation as the difficulty in qualifying a voter initiative for the ballot decreases, as the legislature is less able to alter the effects of successful voter initiatives, and as the average number of voter initiatives that appear on the ballot increases. These results provide some statistical evidence of the indirect effect of the voter initiative and are consistent with the theory that policy differences in voter initiative states are the result of the indirect effect of the voter initiative process.
Enhanced static response of sandwich panels with honeycomb cores through the use of stepped facings
Authors: Nguyen Cody H , Chandrashekhara K. , Birman Victor
Published: June 2010

Sandwich panels have been developed to either produce lighter structures capable of carrying prescribed loads or to increase the load-carrying capacity subject to limitations on the weight. The major load-carrying elements of a sandwich structure are its facings, while the core primarily serves to resist transverse shear loads, enhance local strength and stability of the facings, and combine two facings into a single structural system. The facings being subject to in-plane tensile/compressive loads and to in-plane shear, their strength and stiffness are paramount to the sandwich structure. In this article we elucidate potential advantages of so-called ‘stepped’ facings with geometry modified to locally enhance the strength and stiffness at strategically important locations with a minimum effect on the weight. Numerous examples presented in the article validate our suggestion that a combination of a relatively simple manufacturing process and improved structural response of sandwich panels with stepped facings may present a designer with an attractive alternative to conventional sandwich structures.
Transnational TV Comedy Audiences
Authors: Kalviknes Bore Inger-Lise
Published: June 2010

This article addresses academic debates around the relationship between nationality and humor through an empirical case study of national and transnational TV comedy audiences. Based on data from twenty-five focus groups held in Norway and Britain, it examines audience talk around interlinguistic subtitling and articulated responses to two case study programs: The Office (BBC2, 2001—3) and Nissene på Låven (TVNorge, 2001). Discussing constraints associated with transnational TV comedy, the analysis underlines national differences in engagement with subtitles but argues that participants tended to underestimate the ability of transnational viewers to comprehend and enjoy the case study texts. Drawing on theories of humor and nationality, the article suggests that the recurring emphasis on cultural difference served to maintain nation-based us—them distinctions.
Prison BreakGeneral Gabbery
Authors: Knaggs Angie
Published: June 2010

This article examines the interdependent relationship among the text, its producers, and “extra-hyperdiegetic space” constructed around the romantic relationship between Michael and Sara, the central protagonists of the Prison Break television series. The Prison Break creators have created extensive digital and analogue platforms to create an extended textual experience that constructs a close text–audience relationship. The digital and analogue platforms construct a space that is inhabitable by fans, one in which to express their own desires. This article explores the online material generated by fans (the most prevalent artifact of this extended space is the Prison Break fan fiction) as well as material released outside the story by producers on their blogs and official promo sites related the show and examines the interconnected (however mediated) relationship among these different spaces in relation to the increasingly romanticized and melodramatic relationship between Michael and Sara.
Differential Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Parameters on Submental Motor-Evoked Potentials
Authors: Doeltgen Sebastian H. , Dalrymple-Alford John , Ridding Michael C. , Huckabee Maggie-Lee
Published: June 2010

Background. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) of the muscles underlying the pharynx and faucial pillars affects the excitability of corticobulbar projections in a frequency- and duration-specific manner. The anterior hyomandibular (submental) muscles are primary targets for the clinical application of NMES to improve disordered swallowing, but the optimal NMES parameters for this application are unknown. Objective. To determine the influence of NMES parameters on the excitability of corticobulbar projections to the submental musculature. Methods. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used in event-related protocols, triggered by either volitional contraction of the submental muscles or pharyngeal swallowing, to assess corticobulbar excitability prior to, immediately following, and 30, 60, and 90 minutes post-NMES in 25 healthy volunteers. In the first 2 experiments, 4 stimulus frequencies (5, 20, 40, and 80 Hz) and 3 NMES dosages, manipulated through stimulus train durations or number of repetitions, were evaluated. The optimal excitatory NMES triggered by volitional swallowing (event-related NMES) was then replicated in a new sample and contrasted with non-event-related NMES (either discrete events or continuously for 1 hour). Results. It was found that 80Hz NMES increased motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitude at 30 minutes and 60 minutes poststimulation only after 60 repetitions of 4-s event-related NMES trains. Non-event-related and continuous NMES did not affect MEP amplitudes. No changes in MEP onset latencies were observed. Conclusions. Changes in corticobulbar excitability induced by NMES of the submental muscle group are frequency and dose dependent and only occur after NMES triggered by volitional swallowing. Underlying neural mechanisms are discussed.
Gynecologic Oncology Group quality assurance audits: analysis and initiatives for improvement
Authors: Blessing John A , Bialy Sally A , Whitney Charles W , Stonebraker Bette L , Stehman Frederick B
Published: June 2010

Background The Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) is a multi-institution, multi-discipline Cooperative Group funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to conduct clinical trials which investigate the treatment, prevention, control, quality of survivorship, and translational science of gynecologic malignancies. In 1982, the NCI initiated a program of on-site quality assurance audits of participating institutions. Each is required to be audited at least once every 3 years. In GOG, the audit mandate is the responsibility of the GOG Quality Assurance Audit Committee and it is centralized in the Statistical and Data Center (SDC). Each component (Regulatory, Investigational Drug Pharmacy, Patient Case Review) is classified as Acceptable, Acceptable, follow-up required, or Unacceptable.

Purpose To determine frequently occurring deviations and develop focused innovative solutions to address them.

Methods A database was created to examine the deviations noted at the most recent audit conducted at 57 GOG parent institutions during 2004—2007. Cumulatively, this involved 687 patients and 306 protocols.

Results The results documented commendable performance: Regulatory (39 Acceptable, 17 Acceptable, follow-up, 1 Unacceptable); Pharmacy (41 Acceptable, 3 Acceptable, follow-up, 1 Unacceptable, 12 N/A): Patient Case Review (31 Acceptable, 22 Acceptable, follow-up, 4 Unacceptable). The nature of major and lesser deviations was analyzed to create and enhance initiatives for improvement of the quality of clinical research. As a result, Group-wide proactive initiatives were undertaken, audit training sessions have emphasized recurring issues, and GOG Data Management Subcommittee agendas have provided targeted instruction and training.

Limitations The analysis was based upon parent institutions only; affiliate institutions and Community Clinical Oncology Program participants were not included, although it is assumed their areas of difficulty are similar.

Conclusions The coordination of the GOG Quality Assurance Audit program in the SDC has improved data quality by enhancing our ability to identify frequently occurring deviations and develop innovative solutions to avoid or minimize their occurrence in the future. Clinical Trials 2010; 7: 390—399. http://ctj.sagepub.com
Adiponectin gene polymorphisms and their effect on the risk of myocardial infarction and type 2 diabetes: an association study in an Italian population
Authors: Chiodini Benedetta D. , Specchia Claudia , Gori Francesca , Barlera Simona , D'Orazio Andria , Pietri Silvia , Crociati Luisa , Nicolucci Antonio , Franciosi Monica , Signorini Stefano , Brambilla Paolo , Grazia Franzosi Maria
Published: June 2010

Objective: While many studies have shown an association between the gene coding for adiponectin (ADIPOQ) and adiponectin levels, much more controversy surrounds its association with metabolic traits such as insulin resistance, obesity and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, very few studies have looked into the relations between ADIPOQ variants and risk of cardiovascular disease. The present study assessed the influence of four common ADIPOQ Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), rs17300539 (-11391G→A), rs266729 (-11377C→G), rs2241766 (+45T→G) and rs1501299 (+276G→T) on the risk of myocardial infarction and type 2 diabetes.

Methods and Results: A large genetic association case-control study was conducted in 2008 Italians, including patients with myocardial infarction, type 2 diabetes, or both, and a reference group of healthy controls. Homozygotes TT for the rs1501299 (+276) had half the risk of either myocardial infarction alone or in association with type 2 diabetes when compared to the carriers of the G allele (OR = 0.58, p =0.01, and OR = 0.55, p =0.006 respectively). SNPs rs17300539 (-11391), rs266729 (-11377) and rs2241766 (+45) showed no significant association with any of the three case groups.

Conclusions: These results suggest that homozygotes TT for the adiponectin polymorphism rs1501299 (+276) are protected from the risk of myocardial infarction.
Endogenous dendritic cells mediate the effects of intravenously injected therapeutic immunosuppressive dendritic cells in transplantation
Authors: Divito Sherrie J. , Wang Zhiliang , Shufesky William J. , Liu Quan , Tkacheva Olga A. , Montecalvo Angela , Erdos Geza , Larregina Adriana T. , Morelli Adrian E.
Published: June 2010

The prevailing idea regarding the mechanism(s) by which therapeutic immunosuppressive dendritic cells (DCs) restrain alloimmunity is based on the concept that they interact directly with antidonor T cells, inducing anergy, deletion, and/or regulation. However, this idea has not been tested in vivo. Using prototypic in vitro–generated maturation-resistant (MR) DCs, we demonstrate that once MR-DCs carrying donor antigen (Ag) are administered intravenously, they decrease the direct and indirect pathway T-cell responses and prolong heart allograft survival but fail to directly regulate T cells in vivo. Rather, injected MR-DCs are short-lived and reprocessed by recipient DCs for presentation to indirect pathway CD4+ T cells, resulting in abortive activation and deletion without detrimental effect on the number of indirect CD4+ FoxP3+ T cells, thus increasing the regulatory to effector T cell relative percentage. The effect on the antidonor response was independent of the method used to generate therapeutic DCs or their viability; and in accordance with the idea that recipient Ag-presenting cells mediate the effects of therapeutic DCs in transplantation, prolongation of allograft survival was achieved using donor apoptotic MR-DCs or those lacking surface major histocompatibility complex molecules. We therefore conclude that therapeutic DCs function as Ag-transporting cells rather than Ag-presenting cells to prolong allograft survival.
The role of Vδ2-negative γδ T cells during cytomegalovirus reactivation in recipients of allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Knight Andrea , Madrigal Alejandro J. , Grace Sarah , Sivakumaran Janani , Kottaridis Panagiotis , Mackinnon Stephen , Travers Paul J. , Lowdell Mark W.
Published: June 2010

Reactivation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) remains a serious complication after allogeneic stem cell transplantation, but the role of γδ T cells is undefined. We have studied the immune reconstitution of Vδ2negative (Vδ2neg) γδ T cells, including Vδ1 and Vδ3 subsets and Vδ2positive (Vδ2pos) γδ T cells in 40 patients during the first 24 months after stem cell transplantation. Significant long-term expansions of Vδ2neg but not Vδ2pos γδ T cells were observed during CMV reactivation early after transplantation, suggesting direct involvement of γδ T cells in anti-CMV immune responses. Similarly, significantly higher numbers of Vδ2neg γδ T cells were detected in CMV-seropositive healthy persons compared with seronegative donors; the absolute numbers of Vδ2pos cells were not significantly different. The expansion of Vδ2neg γδ T cells appeared to be CMV-related because it was absent in CMV-negative/Epstein-Barr virus-positive patients. T-cell receptor-δ chain determining region 3 spectratyping of Vδ2neg γδ T cells in healthy subjects and patients showed restricted clonality. Polyclonal Vδ2neg cell lines generated from CMV-seropositive healthy donors and from a recipient of a graft from a CMV-positive donor lysed CMV-infected targets in all cases. Our study shows new evidence for role of γδ T cells in the immune response to CMV reactivation in transplantation recipients.