bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobilization of -Amylase onto Luffa operculata Fibers
Authors: Morais Ricardo R. , Pascoal Aline M. , Caramori Samantha S. , Lopes Flavio M. , Fernandes Kátia F.
Published: March 2013

A commercial amylase (amy) was immobilized by adsorption onto Luffa operculata fibers (LOFs). The derivative LOF-amy presented capacity to hydrolyze starch continuously and repeatedly for over three weeks, preserving more than 80% of the initial activity. This system hydrolyzed more than 97% of starch during 5 min, at room temperature. LOF-amy was capable to hydrolyze starch from different sources, such as maize (93.96%), wheat (85.24%), and cassava (79.03%). A semi-industrial scale reactor containing LOF-amy was prepared and showed the same yield of the laboratory-scale system. After five cycles of reuse, the LOF-amy reactor preserved over 80% of the initial amylase activity. Additionally, the LOF-amy was capable to operate as a kitchen grease trap component in a real situation during 30 days, preserving 30% of their initial amylase activity.
Treatment of Nonhealing Diabetic Lower Extremity Ulcers with Skin Graft and Autologous Platelet Gel: A Case Series
Authors: Tzeng Yuan-Sheng , Deng Shou-Cheng , Wang Chih-Hsing , Tsai Jui-Che , Chen Tim-Mo , Burnouf Thierry
Published: March 2013

Lower extremity ulcers in diabetic patients are difficult to treat. Recently, the use of human blood platelet-derived components in this indication has been raising interest. In this study, we have evaluated the safety and efficacy of the combination of autologous platelet gel (PG) and skin graft for treating large size recalcitrant ulcers. Eight consecutive diabetic patients aged 25 to 82 with nine nonhealing lower extremity ulcers (median size of 50 cm2; range 15–150 cm2) were treated. Skin ulcer was debrided, and the wound was sprayed after 7 to 10 days with autologous platelet-rich plasma and thrombin. Thin split-thickness skin graft with multiple slits was then applied on the wound bed and fixed with staples or cat-gut sutures. There were no adverse reactions observed during the study. Eight out of 9 skin grafts took well. The interval between skin graft and complete wound healing ranged from 2 to 3 weeks in the 8 successful cases. No ulcer recurrence was noted in those patients during the follow-up period of 2 to 19 months. In this study, the combination of autologous platelet gel and skin grafting has proven beneficial to heal large-size recalcitrant ulcers.
Strategies Aimed at Nox4 Oxidase Inhibition Employing Peptides from Nox4 B-Loop and C-Terminus and p22phoxN-Terminus: An Elusive Target
Authors: Csányi Gábor , Pagano Patrick J.
Published: March 2013

Although NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) is the most abundant Nox isoform in systemic vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, its function in the vascular tissue is not entirely known. The literature describes a pathophysiological role for Nox4 in cardiovascular disease; however, some studies have reported that it has a protective role. To date, specific Nox4 inhibitors are not available; hence, the development of a pharmacologic tool to assess Nox4’s pathophysiological role garners intense interest. In this study, we selected peptides corresponding to regions in the Nox4 oxidase complex critical to holoenzyme activity and postulated their utility as specific competitive inhibitors. Previous studies in our laboratory yielded selective inhibition of Nox2 using this strategy. We postulated that peptides mimicking the Nox4 B-loop and C-terminus and regions onp22phoxinhibit Nox4 activity. To test our hypothesis, the inhibitory activity of Nox4 B-loop and C-terminal peptides as well as N-terminalp22phoxpeptides was assessed in a reconstituted Nox4 system. Our findings demonstrate that Nox4 inhibition is not achieved by preincubation with this comprehensive array of peptides derived from previously identified active regions. These findings suggest that Nox4 exists in a tightly assembled and active conformation which, unlike other Noxes, cannot be disrupted by conventional means.
The Effect of Isostatic Pressing on the Dielectric Properties of Screen Printed Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 Thick Films
Authors: Wang Siwei , Zhang Lingling , Zhai Jiwei , Chen Fanglin
Published: March 2013

Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thick films with B2O3–Li2O glass sintering aid were prepared by the screen printing method on Al2O3 substrates. A 200 MPa isostatic pressure was applied to the films before sintering. After being sintered at 950 °C, lower porosity and denser microstructure was obtained compared with the films without isostatic pressing. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss were 238 and 0.0028, respectively. A tunability of 61.7% was obtained for the isostatic pressed films, a 27.8% enhancement compared to unpressurized films. These results suggest that isostatic pressing is an effective way to prepare dielectric thick films with dense microstructure, low dielectric loss, and high tunability.
Knowledge about HPV and Screening of Cervical Cancer among Women from the Metropolitan Region of Natal, Brazil
Authors: Lima Érika Galvão , de Lima Diego Breno Soares , Miranda Cleine Aglacy Nunes , de Sena Pereira Valeska Santana , de Azevedo Jenner Chrystian Veríssimo , de Araújo Josélio Maria Galvão , de Medeiros Fernandes Thales Allyrio Araújo , de Azevedo Paulo Roberto Medeiros , Fernandes José Veríssimo
Published: March 2013

Objective. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge level about HPV and screening of cervical cancer in women from the metropolitan region of Natal, Brazil. Materials and Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study involving sexually active women was conducted. The participants were submitted to a face-to-face interview, using a structured questionnaire that permitted the quantification of data and opinions of the respondents. Results. Most participants (70.9%) had poor knowledge about HPV and also the Pap test (53.0%). The high level of knowledge about HPV was associated with age, education, marital status, household income, and pregnancy, while the high level of knowledge about the Pap test proved to be associated only with education and household income. Conclusion. The results highlight the need for performing educational campaigns emphasizing the role of HPV in the etiology of cervical lesions of different degrees, including cervical cancer, as well as the importance of having a Pap test regularly to prevent these diseases.
Inflammatory Mediator Profiling Reveals Immune Properties of Chemotactic Gradients and Macrophage Mediator Production Inhibition during Thioglycollate Elicited Peritoneal Inflammation
Authors: Lam Derek , Harris Devon , Qin Zhenyu
Published: March 2013

Understanding of spatiotemporal profiling of inflammatory mediators and their associations with MΦ accumulation is crucial to elucidate the complex immune properties. Here, we used murine thioglycollate elicited peritonitis to determine concentrations of 23 inflammatory mediators in peritoneal exudates and plasma before (day 0) and after (days 1 and 3) thioglycollate administration to peritoneal cavities; these mediators included TNF-α, FGF-9, IFN-γ, IP-10, RANTES, IL-1α, IL-6, IL-7, IL-10, IL-11, IL-12p70, IL-17A, lymphotactin, OSM, KC/GRO, SCF, MIP-1β, MIP-2, TIMP-1, VEGF-A, MCP-1, MCP-3, and MCP-5. Our results showed that concentrations of most mediators in exudates and plasma reached peak levels on day 1 and were significantly reduced on day 3. Conversely, MΦnumbers started to increase on day 1 and reached peak levels on day 3. Moreover, LPS treatmentin vitrosignificantly induced mediator productions in cell culture media and lysates from MΦisolated on day 3. Our results also showed that on day 0, concentrations of many mediators in plasma were higher than those in exudates, whereas on day 1, the trend was reversed. Overall, the findings from thioglycollate elicited peritonitis reveal that reversible chemotactic gradients between peritoneal exudates and blood exist in basal and inflamed conditions and the inflammatory mediator productionin vivois disassociated with macrophage accumulation during inflammation resolution.
Stability Prediction of Milling Process with Variable Pitch Cutter
Authors: Jin Gang , Zhang Qichang , Hao Shuying , Xie Qizhi
Published: March 2013

The use of variable pitch cutter is a known means to increase the stable limit depth of cut by disrupting the regenerative effect. In this paper, an improved semidiscretization algorithm is presented to predict the stability lobes for variable pitch cutters. Modeling efforts develop a straightforward analytical integral force model that can cover any case of piecewise continuous cutting regions regarding the helix angle. The proposed approach has been verified with the comparisons with prior works, time domain simulations, and cutting tests. In addition, the method is also applied to examine the effect of the tool geometries on the stability trends for variable pitch milling. Some new phenomena for certain combinations of parameters are shown and explained.
Oral Cellular Neurothekeoma
Authors: Emami Nader , Zawawi Faisal , Ywakim Rania , Nahal Ayoub , Daniel Sam J.
Published: April 2013

Cellular neurothekeoma is known as a cutaneous tumor with uncertain histogenesis. Very little involvement of mucosal membrane has been reported in the literature so far. This is a case report of an intraoral lesion in a 15-years-old girl. Histopathologic evaluation showed a tumor-consists of spindle to epitheloid cells forming micronodules in a concentric whorled shape pattern. Tumor cells were positive for CD63, vimentin, and NKI-C3. Total excision was performed and no recurrence happened after 16-month followup.
On a System of Difference Equations
Authors: Özkan Ozan , Kurbanli Abdullah Selçuk
Published: March 2013

We have investigated the periodical solutions of the system of rational difference equations , and where .
Comparative Study of the Thermal Shock Resistance of an Industrial Tableware Porcelain
Authors: Sahlaoui Habib , Makhlouf Kamel , Sidhom Habib
Published: April 2013

The effect of the glazed layer and firing conditions (temperature and duration) on the thermal shocks behavior of tableware porcelains has been studied. Two types of glazed layers and three firing conditions, used industrially in the commercial porcelains manufacture, are used in this investigation. Repeated thermal shock tests showed that the glazed layer with higher alumina/silica ratio is more resistant to thermal shocks and that the slow firing cycle, even at a relatively low temperature, is very beneficial for the thermal shock resistance of the porcelain matrix. Three-point bending tests showed that the crazing phenomenon, which affects the glazed layers as well as the porcelain matrix, does not affect significantly the mechanical resistance of these materials.
A Coprological Survey of Parasites in White-Faced Capuchins (Cebus capucinus) from Sector Santa Rosa, ACG, Costa Rica
Authors: Parr Nigel A. , Fedigan Linda M. , Kutz Susan J.
Published: April 2013

Neotropical primate parasitology has been dominated by studies of howler monkeys (Alouattaspp.), whereas the literature on the parasites of other platyrrhines is relatively sparse. We analysed the faeces of white-faced capuchins(Cebus capucinus)in a Costa Rican tropical dry forest and recovered 8 parasite taxa (Filariopsis barretoi, Giardia duodenalis, Strongyloidessp.,Prosthenorchissp., a spirurid nematode, a subulurid nematode, a strongylid nematode and a cestode).F. barretoiandStrongyloidessp. were the most prevalent parasites and were recovered from 84 and 76% of the sampled individuals, respectively. Individual capuchins were infected with an average of 1.89 parasite species. Capuchins host a diverse suite of parasites belonging to several taxonomic groups (Nematoda, Cestoda, Acanthocephala, Protozoa) and including species with direct and indirect life cycles. Many capuchin parasites are transmitted through the consumption of invertebrate intermediate hosts making diet a critical component of capuchin-parasite ecology. This study represents the most intensive parasitological survey of wild capuchin monkeys to date.
Height Gain at Adult-Height Age in 184 Short Patients Treated with Growth Hormone from Prepubertal Age to Near Adult-Height Age is Not Related to GH Secretory Status at GH Therapy Onset
Authors: Carrascosa A. , Audí L. , Fernández-Cancio M. , Yeste D. , Gussinye M. , Campos A. , Albisu M.A. , Clemente M. , Bel J. , Nosás R. , Rabanal M. , del Pozo C. , Gómez J.M. , Mesa J. ,   and the Group for Short Stature Study
Published: April 2013

Background: GH release after stimuli classifies short children as severe idiopathic isolated GH deficiency (IIGHD), mild IIGHD, dissociated GH release (DGHR) and normal GH release (NGHR) and anthropometric birth data as adequate for gestational age (AGA) or small for gestational age (SGA). GH release after stimuli classifies AGA patients as IIGHD or as idiopathic short stature (ISS). Aim: To compare height gain induced by GH therapy (31.8 ± 3.5 µg/kg/day, 7.7 ± 1.6 years) started at prepubertal age and stopped at near adult-height age. Methods: A retrospective longitudinal multicenter study including 184 short patients classified as severe IIGHD n = 25, mild IIGHD n = 75, DGHR n = 55 and NGHR n = 29; or as IIGHD n = 78, ISS n = 57 and SGA n = 49. Height gain was evaluated throughout GH therapy and at adult-height age. Results: Height-SDS gain at adult-height age was similar among severe IIGHD (1.8 ± 0.8 SDS), mild IIGHD (1.6 ± 0.6 SDS), DGHR (1.7 ± 0.7 SDS) and NGHR (1.6 ± 0.7 SDS), or among IIGHD (1.7 ± 0.7 SDS), ISS (1.7 ± 0.6 SDS) and SGA (1.6 ± 0.8 SD). Conclusion: GH-release stimuli are of little help for deciding on GH therapy in the clinical management of prepubertal children with IIGHD, ISS or SGA.
Controversies of the Hormonal Conservative Treatment of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Minig Lucas , Franchi Dorella , Valero de Bernabé Javier , Sideri Mario
Published: April 2013

Background: Hysterectomy plus salpingo-oophorectomy represents the standard treatment for patients with well-differentiated endometrial cancer (EC) limited to the endometrium. It is estimated that over 5% of EC are diagnosed in nulliparous women aged 35-44 years. In addition, EC can affect obese women with diabetes, hypertension and other comorbidities increasing the surgical risk. Methods: This article reviews the English literature in PubMed regarding hormonal treatment of EC. Results: Use of hormonal therapies has resulted in complete remission in 60-70%; many of these women were able to achieve full-term pregnancies, and in case of contraindication to surgery, resection could be avoided. Several topics, however, such as patient selection, interobserver histologic evaluation, the type/duration of hormonal treatment, modality of evaluation before treatment and surveillance after treatment, which are still subject to controversy, are therefore discussed in this paper. Conclusion: Uterus-sparing treatment of well-differentiated EC limited to the endometrium is feasible and has acceptable efficacy in women with increased surgical risk or those who wish to preserve their fertility. Although the methods applied to determine disease extent beyond the endometrium are still unsatisfactory, patient selection is a crucial factor determining the outcome of treatment. However, women must be fully informed about the possibility of treatment failure and the necessity of a close follow-up after therapy.
Periodontal Disease in Chronic Kidney Disease and End-Stage Renal Disease Patients: A Review
Authors: Ariyamuthu Venkatesh K. , Nolph Karl D. , Ringdahl Bruce E.
Published: April 2013

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder and being so it has been associated with accelerated atherosclerosis and malnutrition. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients [National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Annual Data Report, 2010]. A recent scientific statement released by the American Heart Association [Lockhart et al.: Circulation 2012;125:2520-2544] claims that, even though evidence exists to believe that periodontal interventions result in a reduction in systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, there is little evidence that those interventions prevent atherosclerotic vascular disease or modify the outcomes. In this review, we discuss the periodontal findings and their association with an increased prevalence of inflammatory markers and cardiovascular mortality in ESRD patients and CKD.
Intracranial KCl Injection - An Alternative Method for Multifetal Pregnancy Reduction in the Early Second Trimester
Authors: Li Rong , Yang Rui , Chen Xinna , Yang Shuo , Ma Caihong , Liu Ping , Qiao Jie
Published: April 2013

Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of transabdominal intracranial KCl injection as an alternative to intrathoracic KCl injection for multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR) in the early second trimester. Methods: In this study, 40 cases who underwent fetal reduction between 12 and 18 weeks of gestation at the Reproductive Medical Center of Peking University Third Hospital from January 2006 to December 2011 were divided into two groups: group A (16 cases of intracranial injection) and group B (24 cases of intrathoracic injection). The groups were compared for clinical procedures and outcomes. Results: The two groups were similar in terms of patient age, gestation, as well as starting and finishing fetal numbers. Group A needed significantly fewer punctures for each fetus than group B did (1.1 ± 0.2 vs. 1.4 ± 0.6), but both groups received similar doses of KCl (2.6 ± 0.8 ml vs. 2.6 ± 1.2 ml per fetus). All cases succeeded in the first procedure, with no heartbeat recovery. The two groups had similar miscarriage rates and gestational ages at delivery. Conclusion: MFPR by intracranial KCl injection was as effective as, but an easier procedure than intrathoracic KCl injection between 12 and 18 weeks of gestation.
Kisspeptin, Leptin, and Retinol-Binding Protein 4 in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Jeon Young Eun , Lee Kyung Eun , Jung Ji Ann , Yim Su Youn , Kim HyeYeon , Seo Seok Kyo , Cho SiHyun , Choi Young Sik , Lee Byung Seok
Published: April 2013

Objectives: To compare plasma kisspeptin, serum leptin, and serum retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) levels in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to correlate these among each other and with clinical, hormonal, and metabolic parameters. Methods: Ninety women, including 54 women with PCOS and 36 without PCOS, participated in this study. For all patients, history and physical examinations were performed and blood samples were collected between days 3 and 8 of a spontaneous bleeding episode in the PCOS group and during normal menses of controls. Plasma kisspeptin, serum leptin, and serum RBP4 levels were measured using specific commercial assays. Results: Kisspeptin, leptin, and RBP4 levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group than in controls. Kisspeptin and RBP4 levels were significantly higher among obese PCOS patients than controls. Leptin levels were higher among obese PCOS patients than non-obese PCOS patients or controls. Kisspeptin and leptin levels of PCOS patients were significantly correlated with RBP4 levels. When only obese PCOS patients were analyzed, kisspeptin levels correlated with only the free androgen index. Conclusions: These findings suggest that kisspeptin, leptin, and RBP4 are associated with metabolic disturbances in women with PCOS.
Role of erythrocytes and platelets in the hypercoagulable status in polycythemia vera through phosphatidylserine exposure and microparticle generation
Authors: Gao Chunyan , Yang Xue , Li Jianan , Wang Wei , Hou Jinxiao , Li Huibo , Tan Xiaoyan , Shi Jialan , Fu Yueyue , Zhou Jin
Published: April 2013

The development of thrombosis in polycythaemia vera (PV) involves multifactorial processes including pathological activation of blood cells. Release of microparticles (MPs) by activated cells in diseases is associated with thrombotic risk, but relatively few data are available in PV. The aim of the present study was to investigate the increase in MP release and exposure of phosphatidylserine (PS) on the outer membrane of MP-origin cells in patients with PV, and to analyse their procoagulant activity (PCA). PS-positive MPs and cells were detected by flow cytometry, while PCA was assessed with clotting time and purified coagulation complex assays. We found that PV patients had elevated circulating lactadherin+ MPs, which mostly originating from erythrocytes, platelets, granulocytes, and endothelial cells, as well as increased PS exposing erythrocytes/platelets as compared to secondary polycythaemia patients or healthy controls. These PS-bearing MPs and cells were highly procoagulant. Moreover, lactadherin competed factor V and VIII to PS and inhibited about 90% of the detected PCA in a dose-response manner while anti-TF antibody did no significant inhibition. Treatment with hydroxyurea is associated with a decrease in PS exposure and lactadherin+ MP release of erythrocytes/platelets. Our data demonstrate that PV patients are characterised by increased circulating procoagulant MPs and PS exposing erythrocytes/platelets, which could contribute to the hypercoagulable state in these patients.
The first Aleyrodidae from the Lowermost Eocene Oise amber (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha)
Authors: DROHOJOWSKA JOWITA , SZWEDO JACEK
Published: April 2013

The first records are provided of the family Aleyrodidae in the Lowermost Eocene amber of Oise, France. The following new taxa in the subfamily Aleurodicinae are described, figured and discussed, together with an identification key: Oisedi-cus maginus gen. et sp. n., Clodionus fizoli gen. et sp. n., Lukotekia menae gen. et sp. n. and Isaraselis cladiva gen. et sp. n. Unplaced species of Lukotekia are briefly described, and the diversity of the whiteflies from Oise amber is dis-cussed. The importance of fossils for palaeoecological and palaeoclimatological reconstruction is briefly considered.
A new species of Bachia Gray, 1845 (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae) from the western Brazilian Amazonia
Authors: TEIXEIRA MAURO JR , VECHIO FRANCISCO DAL , NUNES PEDRO M. SALES , NETO ANTONIO MOLLO , LOBO LUCIANA MOREIRA , STORTI LUIS FERNANDO , GAIGA RENATO AUGUSTO  JUNQUEIRA , DIAS PEDRO HENRIQUE FREIRE , RODRIGUES MIGUEL TREFAUT
Published: April 2013

A new species of Bachia of the B. dorbignyi group, Bachia scaea sp. nov., is described from the left bank of the upper Madeira River, at Rondônia state, at the western Brazilian Amazonia. The new species resembles morphologically B. dor-bignyi and B. peruana, and seems to be related with the former species based on molecular data (16S and c-mos sequenc-es). Nonetheless the presence of a first temporal separating parietal and supralabial scales and the absence of clawed fingers in the new species, can promptly distinguish it from their close relatives. This description ends with several-de-cades of stasis in the taxonomy of the Bachia dorbignyi group from Amazonian lowlands, and also presents new evidence that supports the Madeira River as a vicariant barrier.
Shades of grey: Understanding job quality in emerging graduate occupations
Authors: Okay-Somerville Belgin , Scholarios Dora
Published: April 2013

This article examines job quality for university graduates employed in intermediately skilled (emerging) and traditional graduate occupations. Skills policies largely assume that increasing the supply of skilled labour generates sufficient demand in terms of appropriate jobs, but job quality in emerging occupations and the effects on graduates’ attitudes and well-being have yet to be established. The role of job quality (defined in terms of skills use, job content, job security and pay) was examined in a sample drawn from the 2006 UK Skills Survey. Graduates in emerging occupations reported lower use of ‘graduateness’ skills, job control, opportunities for skill use and pay. In turn, job quality explained lower job satisfaction and organizational commitment. The defining features of a ‘good’ graduate job related to intrinsic job content. The findings highlight the importance of employer practices and skills policies that better utilize and develop the highly skilled workforce.
Plugging In
Authors: Neely Jeffrey C.
Published: April 2013

Many of today’s youth feel disconnected from their local communities. At the same time, most of them are regularly connected to the Internet and other digital media to gather information and communicate with their peers. This study conducts a qualitative textual analysis of 14 scholastic and nonscholastic youth media websites to derive five emergent themes related to connecting youth and local communities. While some content examined addressed specific community concerns, the strongest current value of these websites is that they serve as a source of diverse peer support and self-expression for local teens as they collectively experience the joys and struggles of adolescence. These sites also promote attachment to local schools, an important community node and social ecology for teens.
Genre-Appropriate Judgments of Qualitative Research
Authors: Lee Justin
Published: April 2013

Focusing on the production of lists of evaluative criteria has oversimplified our judgments of qualitative research. On the one hand, aspirations for global criteria applicable to “qualitative” or “interpretive” research have glossed over crucial analytic differences among specific types of inquiry. On the other hand, the methodological concern with appropriate ways of acquiring trustworthy data has led to an overly narrow proceduralism. I suggest that rational evaluations of analytic worth require the delineation of species of analytic tasks and the exercise of genre-appropriate judgments, to determine what constitutes explanatory, interpretive, or explicatory adequacy. I focus on the parameters of judgment for interpretations and explications because their analytic differences have not yet been made distinct in qualitative research.
Hearing the Other Side Revisited: The Joint Workings of Cross-Cutting Discussion and Strong Tie Homogeneity in Facilitating Deliberative and Participatory Democracy
Authors: Lee Hoon , Kwak Nojin , Campbell Scott W.
Published: April 2013

This study seeks to shed light on the highly publicized democracy dilemma signaling that encountering disagreement tends to promote deliberative democracy, while the same experience can dampen a citizen’s motivation to participate. By assessing the processes wherein the joint workings of cross-cutting discussion and strong tie homogeneity are simultaneously associated with the outcomes of deliberative and participatory democracy, we provide a number of key insights into the puzzling quandary. First, our results indicate that cross-cutting discussion and strong tie homogeneity interact with each other to predict increased political participation. Second, the relationship between cross-cutting discussion and preference for open dialogue is stronger for those who belong to a congenial primary network. Third, efficacious individuals seem more capable of translating the benefits of an ongoing deliberative orientation into meaningful political behavior. The current research suggests that deliberation and participation can go hand in hand under a particular network context.
Understanding Sample Size Determination in Nursing Research
Authors: Hayat Matthew J.
Published: April 2013

Sample size determination is a natural consideration in the planning stages of most research studies. The purpose of this work is to provide an overview of modern methods of sample size determination and describe some of the challenges to be aware of and pitfalls to avoid in applying these various methods. Although sample size can be determined in many ways, the most commonly used approach has relied on classical hypothesis-based methods of power analysis. Several challenges often arise with traditional power analysis. For example, the statistical methods used in a power analysis may not adequately address the complexities of the data collected in a research study. The American Psychological Association currently accepts and endorses the use of two methods, power analysis and precision estimation, for sample size determination. Precision estimation is a viable alternative to the traditional power analysis approach. Recommendations for deciding on an approach are provided.
The use of dynamic assessment to evaluate narrative language learning in children with hearing loss: Three case studies
Authors: Asad Areej Nimer , Hand Linda , Fairgray Liz , Purdy Suzanne Carolyn
Published: April 2013

The primary objectives of this research were to establish whether dynamic assessment could be implemented in children with hearing loss with a range of language abilities and to obtain pilot data to support the use of dynamic assessment for determining narrative language learning difficulties in children with hearing loss. Participants were three children aged seven to 12 years with moderate to profound hearing loss. The Test of Narrative Language (TNL) was used to measure narrative skills before and after two Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) sessions. Responsiveness to mediation in MLE sessions was compared to ability to learn based on a comparison of pre- versus post-test TNL scores. Two participants showed substantial improvements in their Oral Narrative subtest scores, and showed good responsiveness and modifiability in MLE sessions. One participant showed no change in TNL results, and low responsiveness and low modifiability in MLE sessions. Children with greater response to mediation had more improved TNL scores. Differential diagnosis of language learning difficulties in children with hearing loss may be possible using ‘dynamic assessment’ (DA).
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the WAIS-IV and WMS-IV in Older Adults
Authors: Miller Delyana I. , Davidson Patrick S. R. , Schindler Dwayne , Messier Claude
Published: April 2013

New editions of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence and Memory scales are now available. Yet, given the significant changes in these new releases and the skepticism that has met them, independent evidence on their psychometric properties is much needed but currently lacking. We administered the WAIS-IV and the Older Adult version of the WMS-IV to 145 older adults. We examined how closely our data matched the normative sample by comparing our scaled scores with those of the publisher and by evaluating interrelations among subtests using confirmatory factor analysis. Not surprisingly, scaled scores from our sample were somewhat higher than those from the normative sample on some tests. Factor analysis on our sample provided support for a higher-order model of the WAIS-IV/WMS-IV Older Adults battery combined. In addition, allowing some subtests to load on more than one factor significantly improved model fit. The best fitting model for our sample was also the best for the normative sample. Overall, the data suggest that the factor analysis models generated from the normative samples for the new WAIS-IV and WMS-IV are reliable.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Social Problem-Solving Inventory–Revised Among Overweight or Obese Adults
Authors: Wang Jing , Matthews Judith T. , Sereika Susan M. , Chasens Eileen R. , Ewing Linda J. , Burke Lora E.
Published: April 2013

Problem solving is a key component of weight loss programs. The Social Problem Solving Inventory–Revised (SPSI-R) has not been evaluated in weight loss studies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometrics of the SPSI-R. Cronbach’s α (.95 for total score; .67-.92 for subscales) confirmed internal consistency reliability. The SPSI-R score was significantly associated ( ps < .05) with decreased eating barriers and binge eating, increased self-efficacy in following a cholesterol-lowering diet, consumption of fewer calories and fat grams, more frequent exercise, lower psychological distress, and higher mental quality of life; all suggesting concurrent validity with other instruments used in weight loss studies. However, confirmatory factor analysis of the hypothesized five-factor structure did not fit the data well (χ2 = 350, p < .001).
Lipoxygenase and urease inhibition of the aerial parts of the Polygonatum verticillatum
Authors: Khan Haroon , Saeed Muhammad , Muhammad Naveed , Gaffar Rukhsana , Gul Farah , Raziq Naila
Published: April 2013

Over expression of lipoxygenase (LOX) and urease has already contributed to the pathology of different human disease. Targeting the inhibition of these enzymes has proved great clinical utility. The aim of the present study was to scrutinised the inhibitory profile of the aerial parts of the Polygonatum verticillatum enzyme against LOX, urease, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) using standard experimental protocols. When checked against lipoxygenase, the extracts revealed significant attenuation. Of the tested extracts, the ethyl acetate fraction was the most potent (half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50): 97 µg/mL) followed by aqueous fraction IC50: 109 µg/mL). Regarding urease inhibition, n-butanol was the most potent fraction (IC50: 97 µg/mL). However, the extracts did not show significant inhibition on AChE and BChE. In the preliminary phytochemical tests, the aerial parts of the plant showed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins and terpenoids. The current findings could be attributed to these groups of compounds.
UVA photoirradiation of benzo[a]pyrene metabolites: induction of cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species, and lipid peroxidation
Authors: Xia Qingsu , Chiang Hsiu-Mei , Yin Jun-Jie , Chen Shoujun , Cai Lining , Yu Hongtao , Fu Peter P
Published: April 2013

Benzo[ a]pyrene (BaP) is a prototype for studying carcinogenesis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We have long been interested in studying the phototoxicity of PAHs. In this study, we determined that metabolism of BaP by human skin HaCaT keratinocytes resulted in six identified phase I metabolites, for example, BaP trans-7,8-dihydrodiol (BaP t-7,8-diol), BaP t-4,5-diol, BaP t-9,10-diol, 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (3-OH-BaP), BaP (7,10/8,9)tetrol, and BaP (7/8,9,10)tetrol. The photocytotoxicity of BaP, 3-OH-BaP, BaP t-7,8-diol, BaP trans-7,8-diol- anti-9,10-epoxide (BPDE), and BaP (7,10/8,9)tetrol in the HaCaT keratinocytes was examined. When irradiated with 1.0 J/cm2 UVA light, these compounds when tested at doses of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 μM, all induced photocytotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner. When photoirradiation was conducted in the presence of a lipid (methyl linoleate), BaP metabolites, BPDE, and three related PAHs, pyrene, 7,8,9,10-tetrahydro-BaP trans-7,8-diol, and 7,8,9,10-tetrahydro-BaP trans-9,10-diol, all induced lipid peroxidation. The formation of lipid peroxides by BaP t-7,8-diol was inhibited by NaN3 and enhanced by deuterated methanol, which suggests that singlet oxygen may be involved in the generation of lipid peroxides. The formation of lipid hydroperoxides was partially inhibited by superoxide dismutase (SOD). Electron spin resonance spin trapping experiments indicated that both singlet oxygen and superoxide radical anion were generated from UVA photoirradiation of BPDE in a light dose responding manner.
Sensitive determination of lead, cadmium and nickel in soil, water, vegetable and fruit samples using STAT-FAAS after preconcentration with activated carbon
Authors: Keskin Gulbahar , Bakirdere Sezgin , Yaman Mehmet
Published: April 2013

In this study, lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and nickel (Ni) were determined in soil, water, vegetable and fruit samples taken from around oil refinery region in Batman, Turkey. Digestion procedures for samples were optimized and all optimum parameters were used both in digestion and in determination steps. In order to determine Pb and Cd, slotted tube atom trap (STAT) was used to increase the sensitivity in atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Preconcentration procedure under the optimum conditions was applied to water, vegetable and fruit samples to determine Pb, Cd and Ni in trace levels. In soil samples, concentrations of analytes were found in the range of 4.0 ± 0.2–12,000 ± 60 mg/kg for Pb, 0.15 ± 0.01–3.0 ± 0.1 mg/kg for Cd and 21 ± 1–65 ± 3.4 mg/kg for Ni. In all water samples, concentration of Ni was expressed as nanogram per milliliter (ng/mL) and found to be higher than Pb and Cd levels. It was observed that Pb, Cd and Ni concentrations varied from both plant to plant and in same plants at different experimental sites. Pb concentrations in vegetable and fruit samples interested varied between 20 ± 2 and 160 ± 12 ng/g, and the highest level of Pb was found to be in green pepper taken from 1000 m away from refinery.
Accommodating Diversity by Analyzing Practices of Teaching (ADAPT)
Authors: Lee Changnam , Picanco Kathryn E.
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this article is to examine and analyze current instructional practices in relation to the phases of learning so that K-12 teachers can use those practices effectively to accommodate students’ diverse needs in learning. In the analysis, the authors focus on the proper uses of instructional methods to maximize students’ learning outcomes. This analysis is also applied to differentiated instruction, co-teaching, and the universal design for learning (UDL) as a way to meet the needs of diverse learners. Thus, the analysis is intended to be a guide for the use of instructional practices in teacher education with the ultimate goal of providing effective and efficient teaching in K-12 classrooms. The advantages of using this guide include the utilization of a full range of effective practices in the classroom, minimizing unnecessary pedagogical conflicts, and the facilitation of co-teaching and differentiated instruction to maximize every student’s learning opportunities. Suggestions for educational researchers and teacher educators are also discussed.
Opportunities of the collaborative mentoring relationships between teachers and student teachers in the classroom
Authors: Aderibigbe Semiyu Adejare
Published: April 2013

This article explores the views of teachers, student teachers and university tutors about the opportunities of the collaborative mentoring relationships between teachers and student teachers. A qualitative approach was employed to conduct the study using a semi-structured type of interview with teachers, student teachers and university tutors. Data collected were analysed thematically and discussed. Findings indicate that the collaborative mentoring relationships provide opportunities for learning from different perspectives and learning opportunities for children, among others. The article concludes by highlighting some implications of the findings for the collaborative mentoring relationships between teachers and student teachers to be enacted effectively without limiting children’s learning.
Voicing the tensions of implementing research strategies
Authors: Billot Jennie , Codling Andrew
Published: April 2013

When higher education institutions seek to align their research goals with nationally driven imperatives, various members of the institutional community need to work in concert to achieve them. The identification of effective strategies and the development of a contextually appropriate research culture are fundamental elements to progressing institutional objectives and achieving planned performance outcomes. Because all parties frequently have differing motivations, there are obvious challenges for organizational leadership. This article examines some of the issues facing academic leaders in the changing research environment within New Zealand and links them to a research study of efforts made in two differing tertiary institutions to enhance research productivity. Data indicate that there is great complexity in integrating organizational purpose with academic staff aspirations and endeavours. Of necessity, strategy and initiatives need to be situated contextually and leadership becomes a crucial mechanism for dovetailing the institutional agenda with individual enterprise.
Showing Off? Human Mobility and the Interplay of Traits, Self-Disclosure, and Facebook Check-Ins
Authors: Wang Shaojung Sharon , Stefanone Michael A.
Published: April 2013

Mobile and location-based media refer to technologies that can openly and dynamically portray the characteristics of the users and their mundane life. Facebook check-ins highlights physical and informational mobility of the users relating individual activities into spaces. This study explored how personality traits like extraversion and narcissism function to influence self-disclosure that, in turn, impacts the intensity of check-ins on Facebook. Using survey data collected through Facebook check-in users in Taiwan ( N = 523), the results demonstrated that although extraversion and narcissism might not directly impact check-in intensity on Facebook, the indirect effects of self-disclosure and exhibitionism were particularly salient. Moreover, a complete path from extraversion to Facebook check-in through self-disclosure and exhibitionism was discovered. Theoretical implications on human mobility and selective self-presentation are also discussed.
Igniting the Fire Within
Authors: Gohlke Angela L. , Murphy Katherine M. , Cannell Megan E. , Ray David B. , Burnworth Melinda J.
Published: April 2013

Due to the expanding role of pharmacy in health care, it is imperative that pharmacy professionals work together to advocate for the profession. An English-language only literature search was conducted of the PubMed and Medline databases using the key words advocacy, grassroots, political action committee, lobbying, politics, political action, legislation, letter writing, pharmacy, pharmacist, Capitol Hill. Up-to-date information regarding pharmacy-specific advocacy was limited and difficult to locate. Information from the literature search was supplemented with interviews of professionals actively engaged in advocacy, personal experience, and Web sites of national pharmacy organizations. This primer ignites the fire for political advocacy within pharmacy professionals by reinforcing the significant impact that advocacy has on the profession and by providing information on how to become involved. The primer provides a comprehensive “pocket guide” of resources combined into an easy-to-use reference for pharmacy professionals and outlines a structured approach on how to become a pharmacy advocate, ranging from a minimal level of involvement to master political activist, and to promote interest among pharmacy professionals to become more engaged with advocacy. Even a small act of advocacy or volunteerism can transform a spark into a raging fire.
Detonation-driven–shock wave interactions with perforated plates
Authors: Zare-Behtash H , Gongora-Orozco N , Kontis K , Jagadeesh G
Published: April 2013

The study of detonations and their interactions is vital for the understanding of the high-speed flow physics involved and the ultimate goal of controlling their detrimental effects. However, producing safe and repeatable detonations within the laboratory can be quite challenging, leading to the use of computational studies which ultimately require experimental data for their validation. The objective of this study is to examine the induced flow field from the interaction of a shock front and accompanying products of combustion, produced from the detonation taking place within a non-electrical tube lined with explosive material, with porous plates with varying porosities, 0.7–9.7%. State of the art high-speed schlieren photography alongside high-resolution pressure measurements is used to visualise the induced flow field and examine the attenuation effects which occur at different porosities. The detonation tube is placed at different distances from the plates' surface, 0–30 mm, and the pressure at the rear of the plate is recorded and compared. The results indicate that depending on the level of porosity and the Mach number of the precursor shock front secondary reflected and transmitted shock waves are formed through the coalescence of compression waves. With reduced porosity, the plates act almost as a solid surface, therefore the shock propagates faster along its surface.
Influence of leading edge imperfections on the aerodynamic characteristics of NACA 632-215 laminar aerofoils at low Reynolds numbers
Authors: Ayuso L , Sant R , Meseguer J
Published: April 2013

This article deals with the effect of leading edge imperfections on the aerodynamic characteristics of a NACA 632-215 laminar aerofoil at low Reynolds numbers. Wind tunnel tests have been performed at different Reynolds numbers and angles of attack and global aerodynamic loads were measured. To perform these tests, a NACA 632-215 aerofoil was built up in two halves (corresponding to the upper side and to the lower side), the leading edge imperfection here considered being a slight displacement of half aerofoil with respect to the other. From experimental results, a quantitative measure of the influence of the leading edge displacement on the degradation of the aerofoil aerodynamic performances has been obtained. This allows the establishment of a criterion for an acceptance limit for this kind of imperfection.
Assessing climate change beliefs: Response effects of question wording and response alternatives
Authors: Greenhill Murni , Leviston Zoe , Leonard Rosemary , Walker Iain
Published: April 2013

To date, there is no ‘gold standard’ on how to best measure public climate change beliefs. We report a study ( N = 897) testing four measures of climate change causation beliefs, drawn from four sources: the CSIRO, Griffith University, the Gallup poll, and the Newspoll. We found that question wording influences the outcome of beliefs reported. Questions that did not allow respondents to choose the option of believing in an equal mix of natural and anthropogenic climate change obtained different results to those that included the option. Age and belief groups were found to be important predictors of how consistent people were in reporting their beliefs. Response consistency gave some support to past findings suggesting climate change beliefs reflect something deeper in the individual belief system. Each belief question was assessed against five criterion variables commonly used in climate change literature. Implications for future studies are discussed.
Healing the Past Through Story
Authors: Mullet Judy H. , Akerson Nels M. K. , Turman Allison
Published: April 2013

Stories matter, and the stories we tell ourselves matter most. Truth has many layers and narrative helps us makes senses of our multilayered reality. We live a personal narrative that is grounded in our past experience, but embodied in our present. As such, it filters what we see and how we interpret events. Attachment theorists tell us our early experiences with caregivers flavor interactions with others; we engage, avoid, become overanxious, or behave inconsistently based on the story formed in childhood interactions. In other words, we can become stuck in a childhood story that no longer serves a survival purpose. Narrative psychologists report we can grow into a secure adult attachment mode by bringing new meaning to the old story. Thus, how we interpret those stories through retelling can help to heal the past. Adult learners bring their life stories into the classroom and the nature of those stories either enhance or impede learning. The purpose of this article is to share current research and practice in narrative psychology and critical theory, as applied to adult learners, and to suggest ways to bring healing through story retelling and story-editing processes within personal narrative papers. Adult learners bring new meaning to their life stories by (a) recognizing other stories as alternatives to the stuck story, (b) addressing the magic question, and (c) practicing multiple perspective taking. The facts do not change, but how learners view the facts makes a difference in how they embrace new learning challenges.