bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Families, Friends, and the Neighborhood of Older Adults: Evidence from Public Housing in Singapore
Authors: Wu Treena , Chan Angelique
Published: November 2011

Introduction. This empirical paper examines how the Housing Development Board (HDB) public housing neighborhood influences older urban Singaporeans' social interactions and ameliorates social isolation.Methods. Using 4,542 observations of noninstitutionalized urban adults aged 60 and above, ordered logistic regressions are run to determine the predictors of isolation while controlling for physical health and demographics.Results. 87% of older Singaporeans reside in public housing apartments while 13% reside in private market housing. The main predictor of social isolation is living alone and the second main predictor is coresidence with adult children. The relationship between coresidence with adult children and isolation is mediated when controlling for older adult functional limitations. The public apartment neighborhood and daily participation in public neighborhood events have substantial effects on reducing the risk of isolation. Older adult contact with friends alleviates isolation more than contact with non-coresiding relatives.Conclusion. Findings suggest that the public neighborhood-built environment in Singapore plays a positive role in the social interactions of the elderly. Knowledge of the factors that decrease the risk of social isolation will have implications for studying morbidity and mortality among the elderly.
Fabrication and Validation of Autologous Human Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cell Sheets to Prevent Stenosis after Esophageal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Authors: Takagi Ryo , Yamato Masayuki , Murakami Daisuke , Kondo Makoto , Ohki Takeshi , Sasaki Ryo , Nishida Kohji , Namiki Hideo , Yamamoto Masakazu , Okano Teruo
Published: November 2011

Objectives: Human oral mucosal epithelial cells derived from 7 healthy volunteer donors were cultured in a clean room in a cell-processing center (CPC) according to good manufacturing practice guidelines. Cell culture and fabricated transplantable epithelial cell sheets were validated for treating ulcers after endoscopic mucosal dissection. Methods: The clonal growth and morphology of the human oral mucosal epithelial cells seeded on temperature-responsive surfaces were observed. During the cultivation, sterilization tests were performed to validate the environment in the CPC. To validate the purity and morphology of fabricated epithelial cell sheets, cell sheets harvested from temperature-responsive surfaces by temperature reduction were examined by histology and flow cytometry. Results: Human oral mucosal epithelial cells were successfully cultured and harvested as continuous cell sheets from temperature-responsive culture inserts without any animal-derived materials. During the cultivations, the sterile environment in the CPC was confirmed. The results of histological and flow cytometry analysis showed the high reproducibility of stratification and the purity of the fabricated human oral mucosal epithelial cell sheets. Conclusions: The method for fabricating epithelial cell sheets shown in this study was suitable for the validation for clinical trials and suggested usability of the fabricated cell sheets.
A Rare Case of Recurrent Fetal Goiter
Authors: Kornacki Jakub , Mroziński Bartłomiej , Skrzypczak Jana
Published: November 2011

We report the case of fetal goiter which occurred in two consecutive pregnancies in the same patients. The first one, due to too late diagnosis and no intrauterine treatment, contributed to the immediate postnatal death of the newborn; the second one was properly diagnosed at 19 weeks and then effectively treated prenatally which allowed to avoid the fatal complications for the fetus and the newborn.
Spatial Analysis of the Distribution of Endometriosis in Northwestern Italy
Authors: Migliaretti G. , Deltetto F. , Delpiano E.M. , Bonino L. , Berchialla P. , Dalmasso P. , Cavallo F. , Camanni M.
Published: November 2011

Objective: The aim of this study is to estimate the incidence of endometriosis in a northwestern region of Italy. The potential sources of geographical variations in the incidence of endometriosis within the region are discussed. Methods: The patients selected were women between 18 and 45 years of age, born and residing in Piedmont who had undergone medical or surgical treatment for endometriosis between 2000 and 2005. The data were obtained from official hospital discharge records. Results: The number of women contributed to the study was 3,929. The age-standardized incidence rate of endometriosis was 81.8/100,000 patient-years (95% CI 79.1–84.2). The distribution of relative risks showed some areas with an increased rate of around 30% (southern and central Piedmont), while for other areas the disease risk was lower (southwestern Piedmont). These areas have greater exposure to environmental risk due to the presence of chemical pollutants. Conclusion: In order to achieve reliable data and good management of the disease, there is great need for national registers, as well as networks of excellence for the treatment of endometriosis. Our findings suggest that environmental factors may be associated with the development of the disease, but the observed results need to be cautiously interpreted in the context of ineligible biases.
Relationship between Hyposalivation and Acute Respiratory Infection in Dental Outpatients
Authors: Iwabuchi Hiroshi , Fujibayashi Takashi , Yamane Gen-yuki , Imai Hirohisa , Nakao Hiroyuki
Published: November 2011

Background: Hyposalivation may affect respiratory disease because the mouth serves as the entrance to the respiratory apparatus, as well as to the digestive tract. Patients with acute respiratory infection generally have a favorable prognosis and a short natural course. However, in cases in which the host has lowered resistance, such as in elderly patients, the infection may develop into pneumonia. Objectives: A prospective study was performed to examine the relationship between hyposalivation, which is common in elderly patients, and acute respiratory infection, which tends to become severe in elderly patients. Methods: The subjects were 323 male and female patients ≥40 years old who lived in Utsunomiya City and surrounding areas and regularly visited the Department of Dentistry and Oral Surgery, Tochigi National Hospital. A 6-month follow-up survey was performed to examine development of acute respiratory infection. Age, sex, and known risk factors were also investigated. Hyposalivation was defined as a saliva production (saliva secretion rate) of ≤0.6 ml/min. Multivariate analysis adjusted for age and sex was performed to examine potential risk factors associated with the development of acute respiratory infection. Results: Data were analyzed for 278 subjects who completed the follow-up survey. The incidence of acute respiratory infection was 60.4%, while hyposalivation was present in 96 subjects (35.5%). Multivariate analysis showed that the incidence of acute respiratory infection was higher in subjects with hyposalivation than in those without hyposalivation (adjusted odds ratio 1.761, p = 0.048). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that hyposalivation may be a risk factor for acute respiratory infection. This also suggests that improvement of hyposalivation might prevent acute respiratory infection.
Costs of Informal Care for People Suffering from Dementia: Evidence from a Danish Survey
Authors: Jakobsen Marie , Poulsen Peter Bo , Reiche Troels , Nissen Nis Peter , Gundgaard Jens
Published: November 2011

Background/Aims: Around 70,000–80,000 Danes suffer from dementia. As average life expectancy increases, the number of people suffering from dementia is expected to increase in the future with informal care provided by family and friends becoming more important. The aim of this study was to estimate the time spent by family and friends on informal care of persons suffering from dementia in a Danish setting and calculate the economic implications. Methods: Information on informal care time was collected in a postal survey of members of the Danish Alzheimer’s Association. Data from 469 informal caregivers were obtained corresponding to an adjusted response rate of 62%. Results: On a typical day, informal care time was 4.97–6.91 h for primary caregivers and 0.70–1.06 h for other caregivers. Using the proxy good method to value informal care, daily costs ranged between EUR 160 and 223 for primary caregivers and between EUR 23 and 34 for others. Conclusion: Informal care delivered by family and friends is significant. The value of informal care constitutes an important part of the societal cost of dementia in Denmark.
Secondary in-the-Bag Implantation of Intraocular Lenses in Aphakic Eyes after Vitreoretinal Surgeries
Authors: Chen Yung-Jen
Published: November 2011

Background/Aims: To report the accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations and refractive outcomes in aphakic eyes after secondary in-the-bag IOL implantation. Method: We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive case series of secondary in-the-bag IOL implantations in aphakic patients with intact capsular bag without severe capsular fibrosis between October 2006 and October 2010. Single-piece foldable lenses were secondarily implanted in 21 eyes of 20 patients. Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and refraction were measured approximately 1 month after surgery. The accuracy of IOL power prediction was evaluated using the mean error (ME) and mean absolute error (MAE). Results: Successful in-the-bag IOL implantation without capsular tear or defect was achieved in all eyes. The mean interval between phacoemulsification and IOL implantation was 5.4 months (range, 1.5–19 months). The ME was +0.06 dpt and the MAE was +0.24 dpt. The BCVA significantly improved from 0.66 logMAR at the pre-IOL implantation examination to 0.38 logMAR at the postoperative examination (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The postoperative refractive results are comparable with those of routine cataract surgery. Among the selected aphakic patients who underwent simultaneous phacoemulsification and vitreoretinal surgery, successful in-the-bag IOL implantation and satisfactory refraction were achieved after secondary IOL implantation.
A Retrospective Comparison of Docetaxel and Paclitaxel for Patients with Advanced or Recurrent Esophageal Cancer Who Previously Received Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Mizota Ayako , Shitara Kohei , Kondo Chihiro , Nomura Motoo , Yokota Tomoya , Takahari Daisuke , Ura Takashi , Muro Kei
Published: November 2011

Objective: To retrospectively compare docetaxel (DTX) with paclitaxel (PTX) with regard to efficacy and safety in advanced or recurrent esophageal cancer patients who previously received platinum-based chemotherapy. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 124 advanced or recurrent esophageal cancer patients who had received platinum-based chemotherapy and then received DTX or PTX from April 2006 to November 2010. Results: Eighty-six patients (69.4%) received DTX and 38 patients (30.6%) received PTX monotherapy. Due to toxicity, dose reduction was needed in 36.0 and 27.8% of patients and treatment was discontinued in 10.5 and 2.6% of patients receiving DTX and PTX, respectively. The objective response (25.7 vs. 10.3%, p = 0.03) and disease control rates (60.0 vs. 34.6%, p = 0.01) were higher in the PTX group than in the DTX group, respectively. There were no significant differences in median progression-free survival (2.1 vs. 3.5 months) and overall survival (6.1 vs. 7.2 months) between the DTX and PTX groups, respectively. Grade 3–4 neutropenia (48.8 vs. 21.1%, p = 0.003) and febrile neutropenia (20.9 vs. 5.3%, p = 0.029) were more frequent in the DTX patients than in the PTX patients, respectively. Conclusion: Although the efficacy of DTX and PTX for advanced or recurrent esophageal cancer patients after platinum-based chemotherapy was not significantly different in terms of survival, PTX was a more feasible treatment. PTX provided similar efficacy to DTX with less febrile neutropenia.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Xerosis in the Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Epidemiological Study in Primary Care
Authors: Paul C. , Maumus-Robert S. , Mazereeuw-Hautier J. , Guyen C.N. , Saudez X. , Schmitt A.M.
Published: November 2011

Background: Limited information is available concerning the prevalence and risk factors of xerosis in the elderly. Objective: To establish the prevalence of xerosis and associated factors in elderly patients. Methods: A national, multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study in patients aged 65 or older was performed. The data collected by general practitioners were demographics and medical history, including history of atopic disease. Xerosis was evaluated using the Overall Dry Skin score. Results: 756 patients were included. The prevalence of xerosis was 55.6%. Xerosis was significantly associated with older age (OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.16–1.89), female sex (OR: 1.80, 95 CI%: 1.29–2.53), treatments that can potentially cause xerosis (OR: 2.21, 95 CI%: 1.54–3.17), itching during sweating (OR: 7.11, 95% CI: 3.90–12.95), a history of dry skin (OR: 2.89, 95% CI: 1.65–5.08) and a history of atopic dermatitis (OR: 3.60, 95% CI: 1.99–6.52). Conclusion: Xerosis is highly prevalent in the elderly. A history of atopy, especially atopic dermatitis, is associated with an increased risk of xerosis in the elderly.
Stroke in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Chronic Kidney Disease, and Anemia Treated With Darbepoetin Alfa
Authors: Skali Hicham , Parving Hans-Henrik , Parfrey Patrick S. , Burdmann Emmanuel A. , Lewis Eldrin F. , Ivanovich Peter , Keithi-Reddy Sai Ram , McGill Janet B. , McMurray John J.V. , Singh Ajay K. , Solomon Scott D. , Uno Hajime , Pfeffer Marc A.
Published: November 2011

Background—

More strokes were observed in the Trial to Reduce Cardiovascular Events With Aranesp Therapy (TREAT) among patients assigned to darbepoetin alfa. We sought to identify baseline characteristics and postrandomization factors that might explain this association.

Methods and Results—

A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify baseline predictors of stroke in 4038 patients with diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and anemia randomized to receive darbepoetin alfa or placebo. To determine whether postrandomization blood pressure, hemoglobin level, platelet count, or treatment dose were responsible for the increased risk related to darbepoetin alfa, we performed a nested case-control analysis (1:10 matching) identifying nonstroke controls with propensity matching. The risk of stroke was doubled with darbepoetin alfa. Overall, 154 patients had a stroke, 101/2012 (5.0%) in the darbepoetin alfa arm and 53/2026 (2.6%) in the placebo arm (hazard ratio 1.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–2.7). Independent predictors of stroke included assignment to darbepoetin alfa (odds ratio 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.5–2.9), history of stroke (odds ratio 2.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–2.9), more proteinuria, and known cardiovascular disease. In patients assigned to darbepoetin alfa, postrandomization systolic and diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin level, platelet count, and darbepoetin alfa dose did not differ between those with and without stroke. Additional sensitivity analyses using maximal values, latest values, or changes over varying periods of exposure yielded similar results.

Conclusions—

The 2-fold increase in stroke with darbepoetin alfa in TREAT could not be attributed to any baseline characteristic or to postrandomization blood pressure, hemoglobin, platelet count, or dose of treatment. These readily identifiable factors could not be used to mitigate the risk of darbepoetin alfa–related stroke.

Clinical Trial Registration—

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00093015.
Cover crops and Pochonia chlamydosporia for the control of Meloidogyne javanica
Authors: de Podestá Guilherme S. , -Giaretta Rosangela Dallemole , Ferraz Silamar , Agnes Ernani Luis , Freitas Leandro Grasside , Lopes Everaldo Antônio
Published: November 2011

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of the combination of Pochonia chlamydosporia var. chlamydosporia with summer and winter cover plants on the control of Meloidogyne javanica on tomato plants under glasshouse conditions. Treatment combinations were with four soil covers (pearl millet and Surinam grass in Experiment 1, oil radish and black oat in Experiment 2; plus tomato and fallow controls) and two P. chlamydosporia treatments (with or without the fungus). The antagonist was applied to nematode-infested soil when the cover crops or tomato were planted. Tomato plants were removed and the above-ground parts of the cover crops were cut, dried, and placed on the pots 60 days after planting. One tomato seedling was transplanted in each pot in a no-tillage system and cultivated for 60 days. Surinam grass, pearl millet and black oat reduced galls and eggs of M. javanica by more than 90%, without application of the fungus. However, P. chlamydosporia + Surinam grass significantly reduced by 72% the number of galls compared with cultivation of the grass in soil without the fungus. Pochonia chlamydosporia became established in soil and could be re-isolated at the end of both experiments. Colony forming units (CFU) (g soil)–1 varied from 1.0 × 105 (fallow) to 2.6 × 105 (pearl millet) and from 1.1 × 105 (fallow) to 2.3 × 105 (oil radish) for the experiments with summer soil cover crops and winter soil cover crops, respectively. The cultivation of Surinam grass, pearl millet and black oat reduced M. javanica populations, and the combination with P. chlamydosporia may favour the establishment of the fungus in the soil and enhance the control of the nematode.
Developing a Movement? Aid-Based Mediated Diffusion as a Strategy to Promote Labour Activism in post-Tsunami Aceh
Authors: Ford Michele , Dibley Thushara
Published: November 2011

Abstract

In this article we examine the extent to which mediated diffusion through trade union development aid succeeded in helping to establish a labour movement in Aceh after the 2004 tsunami. The international labour movement organisations involved in the post-tsunami reconstruction effort in Aceh focused their efforts primarily on humanitarian aid, physical infrastructure and vocational education. However, they also supported trade union-building programs, which succeeded in strengthening individual trade unions and instilling a sense of shared identity amongst Acehnese labour activists but ultimately failed to ensure the sustainability of the movement. We argue that while the Aceh case highlights the importance of local context to the outcomes of such interventions, the constraints imposed on international labour donors and their local counterparts by their focus on reconstruction and the time pressures of the post-tsunami aid cycle raise questions about the efficacy of the aid model as a means of promoting the growth of a social movement.
William Stern: Forerunner of Human Science Child Developmental Thought
Authors: DeRobertis Eugene M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract

In this article, it is argued that William Stern was a forerunner of human science thinking in child psychology. Stern’s view of development, though widely neglected even among humanists, is consonant with human science thought on the whole as well as human science child developmental theory. Certain core characteristics of human science psychology are noted with special emphasis on how they relate to the study of child development. Stern’s views are then shown to be illustrative of these characteristics. In addition, various aspects of Stern’s highly humanistic approach to child development are shown to be relevant today.
“Linnet-like Confined I... Shall Sing”: The Freedom-Imprisonment Duality in the Poetry of Abū Firās al-Ḥamdānī and Richard Lovelace
Authors: Khawaldeh Samirah , Sultan Sabbar
Published: November 2011

Abstract

This paper explores the freedom-imprisonment duality as a major theme common to the poetry of two poets: Abū Firās al-Ḥamdānī and Richard Lovelace. There is a striking resemblance not only between the two poets’ real-life experiences, but also the manner in which they transformed them into a lasting art, suggesting a continuity of chivalric spirit across Arabic and English poetics, most obvious in the emotional attachments of these two poets, and in their allegiance to loved ones and rulers. Imprisonment in their case is ennobled by the causes behind it, and the courage with which they endured it, and as such worked as a crucible, especially for al-Ḥamdānī, yielding self-knowledge and a better understanding of those inhabiting his world. The study looks further into some distinguishing characteristics, namely the heroic dimension of Abū Firās al-Ḥamdānī’s poetry against the more amorous connections with this duality in Lovelace’s poetry, and in so doing shows how even in the isolation of imprisonment experienced by these two poets, both the outside world, and indeed larger world literary traditions, impressed themselves upon their poetics.
The Plausibility of the Independent Origins of Canadian Pentecostalism: Winds from the North
Authors: Studebaker Steven M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Winds from the North showcases the role of early Canadian Pentecostals in the development of the global movement. It adds to the recent polygenetic thesis that challenges the popular notion that Pentecostalism originated largely in American revival centers, principally Azusa Street, and makes the case for diverse global points of origin. Canadian Pentecostalism exhibits unique characteristics, and its leaders made seminal and independent contributions to worldwide Pentecostalism. In addition to presenting a case for the independent origins and unique features, it highlights the role of women leaders in the early phases and spotlights the history of the Oneness and the Latter Rain movements of Canadian Pentecostalism. Though a vital addition to the field of Pentecostal research, the plausibility and necessity of independent origins and autonomous characteristics of the Canadian contribution to global Pentecostalism needs examination.
The effect of the predicted air temperature change on incubation temperature, incubation duration, sex ratio and hatching success of loggerhead turtles
Authors: Özdemir Adem , Ilgaz Çetin , Durmuş Salih Hakan , Güçlü Özgür
Published: November 2011

Marine turtles are sensitive to temperature changes and thus are likely to be impacted by the predicted climate change. This study assesses the effect of the predicted air temperature change on incubation temperature, incubation duration, sex ratio and hatching success of the loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta at the Mediterranean nesting sites of Dalyan and Fethiye, Turkey. We recorded sand temperatures and used air temperatures at two nesting sites to estimate the sex ratio of hatchlings. The data showed that hatchling production was 59.1% and 77.7% at Dalyan in 2004 and 2009, respectively, and 72.2% and 72.3% at Fethiye at 2008 and 2009, respectively. Incubation temperature was positively correlated with both air temperature and distance to sea. Sex ratio estimation and incubation duration between the years 1993 and 2009 in Fethiye show polynomic trend lines. The best predictors of hatching success were distance to vegetation and wet depth of nest. We modelled the effects of incremental increases in the future air temperature of up to 10°C. We suggest that clutch death is not likely to begin until 3°C of warming, increasing from 5.3% to 100.0% with warming between 4°C and 10°C.
Diet preferences of a Western giant's (Lord Derby's) eland group in a Sahelian dry habitat
Authors: Galat Gérard , Galat-Luong Anh , Nizinski Jerzy J.
Published: November 2011

The diet of the critically endangered Western giant eland (Tragelaphus derbianus derbianus Gray, 1847) has never been studied. We studied the food preferences of a Western giant eland group translocated from its native Sudanian habitat to a wildlife reserve in a Sahelian area in relation to the abundance of food in the new habitat. The study generated the first qualitative and quantitative data on this eland subspecies' diet. The translocated group fed only on 33 different plant species available in its new habitat. Isoberlinia doka, and Julbernadia sp., two species eaten by the other eland subspecies did not occur here. The food preference for most ligneous species did correspond to their high availability in the translocation area (like Acacia seyal, 32.56% versus 28.26% abundance in the new habitat, Acacia ataxacantha, 19.7% versus 17.03%, and Azadirachta indica, 7.11% versus 4.71%; only Grewia bicolor, 7.48% versus 10.14% did not). In contrast, the food preference for many herbaceous species did not, as some were preferred (like Merremia pentaphylla, 35.41% versus 11.01%, and Peristrophe bicalyculata, 2.58% versus 0.00%), and others avoided (like Corchorus tridens, 1.72% versus 2.20%, Cucumis melo, 0.43% versus 5.73%, and Abutilon ramosum, 0.21% versus 7.05%). The most eaten Cassia tora (42.7%) was also the most abundant (36.56%). Our data will provide conservation managers with information on how to protect the species' natural environment and to make appropriate management decisions with respect to the proclamation of protected areas or the identification of core zones, mainly for future (re)introduction of satellite populations.
Adolescents’ Values and Value Based Reasoning in Intercultural Dilemma Situations
Authors: Brodbeck Kathrin , Peng Aristide , Christl Taylor , Zehnder Sabine , Käppler Christoph , Morgenthaler Christoph
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Values and religious orientations are traditionally considered as fostering guidelines for individual life perspectives and choices. The present paper attempts to find out whether this is still true for Swiss adolescents. Hedonism, benevolence, self-direction and universalism are their preferred values, as data from a survey of 748 adolescents (aged 12-16) shows, tradition and conformity the least important. 25 of the surveyed adolescents were selected for an interview and confronted with the story of a young Muslim woman who has to decide whether she wants to wear a headscarf at school or not. The adolescents activate general knowledge about comparable situations in order to find a solution for the dilemma and they also refer to value-oriented rationales. Only five of ten possible values were used (universalism, benevolence, self-direction, tradition, conformity), self-direction being the most important value. Although the dilemma could be understood as a religious dilemma, adolescents rarely refer to religious concepts when discussing it.
Egalitarianism Reconsidered
Authors: Hausman Daniel M. , Waldren Matt Sensat
Published: November 2011

This paper argues that egalitarian theories should be judged by the degree to which they meet four different challenges. Fundamentalist egalitarianism, which contends that certain inequalities are intrinsically bad or unjust regardless of their consequences, fails to meet these challenges. Building on discussions by T.M. Scanlon and David Miller, we argue that egalitarianism is better understood in terms of commitments to six egalitarian objectives. A consequence of our view, in contrast to Martin O’Neill’s “non-intrinsic egalitarianism,” is that egalitarianism is better understood as a family of views than as a single ethical position.
Transformative Metropolitan Development Models in Large Canadian Urban Areas: The Predominance of Nodes
Authors: Filion Pierre , Kramer Anna
Published: November 2011

The paper centres on the content of metropolitan-scale plans of the six largest Canadian urban regions. Plans in all these regions promote intensification and alternatives to automobile use, and thus adhere to smart growth and sustainability principles. In all cases save one, reliance on nodal development is the preferred manner of achieving intensification and ensuring its co-ordination with public transit services. Meanwhile, however, results point to differences in the stage of development of metropolitan planning strategies. The paper concludes by reflecting on the wide adoption of the nodal model in metropolitan plans. It interprets this popularity as the outcome of the ability of nodes to achieve intensification and reduced car reliance objectives, while conforming to prevailing planning and institutional capacity. The effectiveness of the nodal approach and other broad metropolitan planning concepts rests in their capacity to procure a metropolitan structure for the other scales at which urban planning is practised.
The Role of Thinking in the Comforting Process
Authors: Bodie Graham D.
Published: November 2011

Using data from 192 undergraduates asked to imagine a stressful experience, this study finds support for two primary contentions of a dual-process theory of supportive message outcomes: (a) message content impacts anticipated affect improvement (AAI) when processing motivation is high but not when low and (b) processing extent mediates the relationship between verbal person centeredness (VPC) and AAI for highly motivated participants. In addition, the dual-process framework was used to forward a modified theory of conversationally induced reappraisals. In support of this model, positive emotion words and situation reappraisal mediated the VPC-AAI link only when recipients afforded close attention to message content. The discussion focuses on how the dual-process framework might assist in modifying theories of supportive communication in other ways.
Journalism, advocacy and the social construction of consensus
Authors: Wade Lisa
Published: November 2011

Scholarship examining media coverage of social problems largely examines coverage of contentious issues. In this study, I contribute to our understanding of journalist practices by examining coverage of an issue over which there is a US consensus: female genital cutting (FGC). With an analysis of newspaper coverage supplemented by interviews and primary documents, I find that, in contrast to existing literature that shows that reporters must refrain from issue advocacy, when consensus is widespread reporters can and do collaborate with advocates, harmonize with opinion writers, and use their physical presence and access to newsprint to pressure the state. Journalists, however, do not simply respond to consensus. Instead, I find that they can actively construct consensus by offering unique frames that depoliticize advocacy. These findings contribute to our understanding of media coverage of social problems by illustrating how consensus is both shaped by and shapes journalist practices.
Content online and the end of public media? The UK, a canary in the coal mine?
Authors: Collins Richard
Published: November 2011

Online delivery of content has changed media advertising markets, undermining the business model which has underpinned provision of ‘public media’. Three business models have sustained mass media: direct payment for content, payment for advertising and state subsidy, and the author argues, contrary to others’ claims, that advertising finance has made possible production and provision of high-quality, pluralistic and affordable public media. In consequence, substitution of the internet as an advertising medium has undermined the system of finance which, in the UK and societies like it, sustained public media. Global advertising revenues have both fallen and been redistributed, though to differing degrees in different countries, with particularly deleterious effects on local newspapers. Prices have risen, original content production has fallen and reversion to a direct payment-for-content business model is pervasive. And this despite the growth of new entrant online media and established publicly funded media (notably public service broadcasters) resulting in the likelihood of a continued general worsening of affordable and pervasive access to high-quality and diverse public media.
Gene Expression in Livers of BALB/C and C57BL/6J Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Nishikawa Satomi , Sugimoto Jiro , Okada Miyoko , Sakairi Tetsuya , Takagi Shiro
Published: November 2011

We previously demonstrated that high-fat diet (HFD)–induced hepatic lipid accumulation is more severe in BALB/c mice than in C57BL/6J (B6) mice. To understand the changes in liver metabolism, we studied blood chemistry, gene expression, and histopathological changes of the liver in nine-week HFD-fed BALB/c and B6 mice and one- or four-week HFD-fed BALB/c mice. Serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly increased in all HFD-fed groups, and one- and four-week HFD-fed BALB/c groups, respectively. Histopathology revealed that vacuolation of hepatocytes was severe in nine-week HFD-fed BALB/c mice, although it was less severe in the other groups. Microarray analysis of mRNA expression of nine-week HFD-fed BALB/c mice showed up-regulation of genes involved in fatty acid uptake and biosynthesis, such as Cd36, Acaca, Acly, and Fasn. Some changes were observed in the one- and four-week HFD-fed BALB/c groups and the nine-week HFD-fed B6 group, however these changes in mRNA expression were not so marked. In conclusion, the fatty accumulation observed in BALB/c mice may be caused, at least in part, by up-regulation of fatty acid uptake and biosynthesis. Cd36, Acaca, Acly and Fasn may be involved in these metabolic processes.
Establishing the Carcinogenic Risk of Immunomodulatory Drugs
Authors: Weaver James L.
Published: November 2011

The first effective immunosuppressive drug (ISD) was azathioprine, approved in 1968. Early experience with this drug suggested that patients might have an excess risk of tumors including lymphoma and skin tumors. Comparison among various registries has shown that the cumulative risk of tumors increases over time. The risk is additionally increased by the more intense immunosuppressive regimens needed for lung or heart-lung transplants. The link between immunosuppression and tumorigenesis was further reinforced by the high concordance of tumor types between transplant and HIV patients. The role of the immune system in tumor defense includes both direct tumor surveillance and immunity against oncogenic viruses. In transplant patients, at least two-thirds of the lymphomas are Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)–positive. Existing methods of testing for carcinogenicity are not considered adequate to identify the hazard of tumorigenesis due to these drugs. Research is ongoing in Food and Drug Administration laboratories and at collaborators’ laboratories to evaluate experimental systems that may have the ability to adequately identify this class of hazard. Initial work is on various model systems similar to EBV. These include the MHV-68 mouse model, lymphocryptovirus (LCV-1) in the cynomolgus monkey, and preliminary work with mice with humanized immune systems using EBV directly.
Studies on confined crystallization behavior of nanobiocomposites consisting of acetylated bacterial cellulose and poly (lactic acid)
Authors: Zhang Xiuju , Li Wendi , Ye Bihua , Lin Zhidan , Rong Jiahua
Published: November 2011

This article deals with the confined crystallization behavior of nanobiocomposites consisting of acetylated bacterial cellulose (BC) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA). PLA/acetylated BC nanobiocomposites were prepared by compressed molding. Nonisothermal crystallization, melting behavior and isothermal crystallization kinetics within confined spaces were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results indicated that acetylated BC was favorable to the crystallization of PLA at higher temperatures. On one hand, due to better compatibility between acetylated BC and PLA, crystal nucleation and growth of PLA took place while crystallization process of PLA was restricted. Acetylated BC had an effect of heterogeneous nucleation on PLA crystallization. On the other hand, crystal growth of PLA molecular chain was confined within the nanometer gaps between the microfibrils of acetylated BC. The interaction between microfibrils of acetylated BC and PLA also had an effect on the crystal growth of PLA, which resulted in the growth of confined crystallization. As the time course of acetylation became longer and longer, the compatibility of acetylated BC and PLA was enhanced and the crystallization of PLA became more difficult. This result was in accordance with the observation of polarized optical microscope (POM) pictures. Activation energy of crystallization and free energy surface of PLA were reduced in PLA and acetylated BC composites.
Explicit non-linear model predictive control for autonomous helicopters
Authors: Liu C , Chen W-H , Andrews J
Published: November 2011

Trajectory tracking is a basic function required for autonomous helicopters, but it also poses challenges to control design due to the complexity of helicopter dynamics. This article introduces an explicit model predictive control (MPC) to solve this problem, which inherits the advantages of non-linear MPC but eliminates time-consuming online optimization. The explicit solution to the non-linear MPC problem is derived using Taylor expansion and exploiting the helicopter model. With the explicit MPC solution, the control signals can be calculated instantaneously to respond to the fast dynamics of helicopters and suppress disturbances immediately. On the other hand, the online optimization process can be removed from the MPC framework, which can accelerate the software development and simplify onboard hardware. Due to these advantages of the proposed method, the overall control framework has a low complexity and high reliability, and it is easy to deploy on small-scale helicopters. The proposed explicit non-linear MPC has been successfully validated in simulations and in actual flight tests using a Trex-250 small-scale helicopter.
Risky Business
Authors: Alaggia Ramona , Regehr Cheryl , Jenney Angelique
Published: November 2011

Objective: A multistage, mixed-methods study using grounded theory with descriptive data was conducted to examine factors in disclosure of intimate partner violence (IPV). Method: In-depth interviews with individuals and focus groups were undertaken to collect data from 98 IPV survivors and service providers to identify influential factors. Quantitative data were also collected on adult trauma levels and child concerns from 20 women. Results: An ecological analysis revealed that IPV disclosure occurs within a complex interplay of distinct individual and environmental considerations. Specific system level factors of the ecological framework—ontogenic, micro, exo, and macro—emerged as influencing disclosure and ultimately shaped womens’ disclosure processes. Conclusion: IPV disclosure remains a “risky business” with perceived negative outcomes outweighing benefits. Results reinforce that social work interventions need to occur at all levels of the human ecology in order to provide effective responses.
Changes in Spirituality and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy
Authors: Samuelson Bethany T. , Fromme Erik K. , Thomas Charles R.
Published: November 2011

Purpose: Investigations into the role of spirituality in cancer confirm the association of good spiritual well-being with many positive outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate potential changes in spirituality over the course of radiation therapy (RT). Patients and Materials: The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Spiritual questionnaire measuring spiritual well-being and quality of life (QOL) was administered to adult patients undergoing RT. Scores were compared using student t tests and chi-square analysis . Results: Despite statistically significant declines in QOL measures such as physical well-being ( P < .001) and overall well-being ( P < .001), no significant changes were noted in spirituality for all comers. A significant increase in the Sp-12 spirituality measure ( P = .001) was noted in patients with breast cancer, independent of age, gender, and purpose of treatment. Sp-12 scores were positively correlated with overall QOL scores ( P < .001).
Use of Nonmedical and Pediatric Primary Care Medical Services by Families Who Call Police for Domestic Violence-Related Issues
Authors: Thomas-Taylor Danielle , Cerulli Catherine
Published: November 2011

This study considers domestic violence (DV) victims’ court and social service utilization ( n = 86). We next examine the victims’ pediatric provider to explore pediatricians’ roles in a community-based response to DV. Sixty-five percent of the sample who used DV-related services interacted with the pediatric community. Pediatric inner-city clinic-based patients appear in the welfare management system and child protective system at similar rates as private pediatric patients. However, clinic-based patients appear in family court more than privately based patients (91% vs. 57%). Data suggest that all pediatric providers should screen, assess, and refer parents for DV.
The Incredible Years Parenting program in Ireland: A qualitative analysis of the experience of disadvantaged parents
Authors: Furlong Mairéad , McGilloway Sinéad
Published: November 2011

Controlled trials demonstrate that parenting programs work, but less is known about the processes of change, contextual factors or intervention characteristics that influence trial outcomes. This qualitative study assessed the experiences of Irish parents involved in a randomized controlled trial of the Incredible Years BASIC parenting program, with a view to understanding how and why the program works, or does not work, within disadvantaged settings. Data from 33 parents of young children (aged 3–7 years) with conduct problems were collected by semi-structured interviews and analysed using constructivist grounded theory. Emerging themes indicated that parents perceived the program to have produced positive changes through learning key parenting skills (e.g. positive attention, empathy and problem-solving skills) and through enhanced parental mood/confidence, derived primarily from gaining non-judgmental support from the group. Parents also experienced cultural, personal and environmental challenges in learning the new skills, including discomfort with praise and positive attention, conflict with their partner and parenting within an antisocial environment. Parents dropped out of the course for largely circumstantial reasons. These findings should help to inform the future implementation of this well-known parenting program both in Ireland and elsewhere.
Living organ donation: the effect of message frame on an altruistic behaviour
Authors: McGregor Lesley M. , Ferguson Eamonn , O’Carroll Ronan E.
Published: November 2011

Objective: This experimental study investigates the impact of message frame and risk perceptions upon willingness to consider living organ donation. Design: A 2 (gain vs. loss) by 2 (liver vs. kidney) by 2 (involved vs. not involved) between-group study was conducted. Method: Eighty-seven participants completed a questionnaire after reading a vignette designed to invite participants to consider living kidney or liver donation. Results: Within a gain frame scenario, willingness to donate was significantly higher when the risk of donating was lower. Conclusion: The results have important implications for the generalizability of framing theories and the promotion of living organ donation.
Extending a tourism causality network model: A cross-country, multigroup empirical analysis
Authors: Assaker Guy , Vinzi Vincenzo Esposito , O’Connor Peter
Published: November 2011

This study provides insights into a powerful statistical technique to test model invariance across multiple groups. In doing so, it provides insights for policymakers and contributes to the literature on tourism demand forecasting by validating and extending previous results on how supply-side factors influence tourism demand. Specifically, this study considered an a priori validated structural model for relationships among the economy, society, environment and tourism constructs in 162 countries, examining the extent to which the model was invariant across two groups of isolated observations: developed and less-developed countries. Upon testing, the a priori model did not replicate across both groups. Instead a reduced model, incorporating the society, environment and tourism constructs only was used to compare and test for variances in parameters across the two groups using multigroup analysis sampling in AMOS 16.0. The results indicated that path coefficients were equal across groups. A positive relationship existed between the society and environment constructs, while a similar positive significant relationship existed between the society and environment constructs from one side and tourism, respectively.
The cultural offer as a tourist product in coastal destinations: The Case of Algarve, Portugal
Authors: Valle Patrícia Oom do , Guerreiro Manuela , Mendes Júlio , Silva João Albino
Published: November 2011

Located in the south of Portugal, the Algarve is the most important Portuguese tourism destination. As with most coastal destinations, sun and beach represents the main tourist product. Previous research suggests that cultural products can add value to the core product of a destination, enhancing its competitiveness. However, few empirical studies have examined this premise in coastal destinations. Based on the responses obtained from a questionnaire applied to tourists visiting the Algarve in the Summer of 2007, this study shows that when tourists experience high levels of satisfaction regarding the cultural offer available at the destination they sense that the tourist experience expanded their knowledge and intellectual horizons. Then, the study shows that this feeling of “cultural enrichment” is a contributing factor to the willingness to revisit the destination. The study concludes by discussing the implications of the findings obtained in improving the competitiveness of costal destination.
Contingent Interactions Between Parents and Young Children With Severe Expressive Communication Impairments
Authors: Cress Cynthia J. , Grabast Jodi , Burgers Jerke Kimberly
Published: November 2011

Parents and their children with severe expressive impairments may have limited successful communicative exchanges due to each partner’s difficulty in recognizing and responding to communicative behaviors of the other. This study examined the communicative functions and modes of communication that received contingent responses in 20 dyads of parents and young children with severe expressive impairments. Parents responded more often to children’s nonvocal behaviors and adult-directed behaviors than vocal behaviors and non-adult-directed behaviors (i.e., child gestures or vocal behaviors that were not conveyed toward the direction of the adult). The children responded more often to parent communication about goal-directed than non-goal-directed tasks. Implications of these results for communication intervention are discussed.
Are Men More Intuitive When It Comes to Eating and Physical Activity?
Authors: Gast Julie , Madanat Hala , Nielson Amy Campbell
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to determine where men fall on the motivation continuum based on intuitive eating status and if motivation for physical activity and intuitive eating are correlated. Results indicate that being an intuitive eater was associated with a lower body mass index. In terms of demographic variables, as age increased, intuitive eating status decreased and body mass index increased. Men scored high on the antidieting and self-care subscales of the Intuitive Eating Scale. Men who were classified as intuitive eaters scored higher on the external and introjected regulation of the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire but no significant differences were reported by eating status and the identified and intrinsic motivation subscales. Intuitive eating holds promise as a weight management and weight loss tool for men. Intuitive eating may also influence initial motivation for physical activity for men.