bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of a Model Explaining Selected Extramusical Influences on Solo and Small-Ensemble Festival Ratings
Authors: Bergee Martin J. , Westfall Claude R.
Published: July 2008

This is the third study in a line of inquiry whose purpose has been to develop a theoretical model of selected extramusical variables' influence on solo and small-ensemble festival ratings. Authors of the second of these (Bergee & McWhirter, 2005) had used binomial logistic regression as the basis for their model formulation strategy. Their final model included as statistically significant variables time of day (morning/afternoon), type of event (solo/ensemble), performing medium (vocal/instrumental), school size classification (Larger/smaller), district level of expenditure per average daily attendance (high/middle/low), and type of event by performing medium interaction. For the present study, we examined the stability of their model for a different data set (the following year's ratings) by means of a similar but modified strategy. Among other modifications, we used multinomial instead of binomial logistic regression. Utimately, the present study's model converged strongly on Bergee and Mc Whirter's preliminary one. Time of day, type of event, school size, district expenditure per average daily attendance, geographical district (metropolitan/nonmetropolitan), and the time of day by geographical district interaction contributed significantly to the present study's multinomial model. Theoretical modeling thus far suggests that performing as a soloist later in the day and entering from a large, metropolitan-area, relatively high-expenditure school serve as success influences. The multinomial model showed a gradation of influences from ratings of I through II to < III.
The Benefits of Adult Piano Study as Self-Reported by Selected Adult Piano Students
Authors: Jutras Peter J.
Published: July 2008

Adult piano students (N = 711) from 24 states across the U.S. rated the existence and importance of 31 potential benefits of adult piano study. Benefits selected from existing adult music and leisure-benefit research were organized into three categories: Personal, Skill, and Social/Cultural. The category of Skill Benefits was the most-agreed-upon and highest-rated category. Personal Benefits were also rated highly, particularly benefits related to Self-Actualization and Fun/Enjoyment. Social/Cul tural Benefits were the least-agreed-upon and rated as the least important benefits. The most-ag-reed-upon benefits were Skill Improvement, Musical Knowledge, Musicianship, Accomplishment, Skill Refinement, Technique, and Play/Fun. The highest-rated benefits, in order of importance, were Dream Fulfilled, Technique, Accomplishment, Escape from Routine, Skill Improvement, Musicianship, Musical Knowledge, Play/Fun, Skill Refinement, and Personal Growth. Findings suggest that students are interested in technical improvement, but they also place high value on the enjoyment and self grozuth that piano study provides.
Procedural Memory Consolidation in the Performance of Brief Keyboard Sequences
Authors: Duke Robert A. , Davis Carla M.
Published: July 2008

Using two sequential key press sequences, we tested the extent to which subjects' performance on a digital piano keyboard changed between the end of training and retest on subsequent days. We found consistent, significant improvements attributable to sleep-based consolidation effects, indicating that learning continued after the cessation of practice during both the first and second nights of sleep following training. When subjects briefly recalled a learned sequence 1 day after training and then immediately learned a second, similar sequence, there were no observable improvements in subjects' performance of the first sequence after the second night of sleep. We discuss our results in relation to similar findings in neuroscience and cognition.
Musicians' Cognitive Processing of Imagery-Based Instructions for Expressive Performance
Authors: Woody Robert H.
Published: July 2008

This study addressed the cognitive processes of musicians using imagery to improve expressive performance. Specifically, it was an examination of the extent to which musicians translate imagery into explicit plans for the sound properties of music. Eighty four undergraduate and graduate music majors completed a research packet during individual practice sessions. Subjects worked with three melodies, each accompanied by an imagery example presented as a teacher's instructions for performing more expressively. The research packet guided subjects in considering the imagery-based instruction, practicing in light of it, and giving a final performance. The subjects wrote down their thoughts during the process. Results indicated that some musicians used a cognitive translation process, but others chose to develop and personalize the provided imagery. A curvilinear pattern in the data suggested an inverted-U relationship between the variables of private instruction received and cognitive translation usage. An interpretation of this result in light of previous research is offered.
Survey of Indiana Music Teachers on Using Composition in the Classroom
Authors: Strand Katherine
Published: July 2008

The primary purpose of this study was to examine composition practices in public schools across the state of Indiana, to investigate who incorporates composition and why they chose to use or not use composing tasks. A second purpose was to learn if teachers had an operational definition for composition. Three hundred thirty-nine teachers participated in a survey to answer questions about their use of compositon in the classroom. Respondents who used composition answered open-ended questions about learning goals for composing tasks and gave examples of typical classroom composing tasks. Although 88.5 % of the respondents indicated that they incorporated composition, only 5.9% reported using composition tasks often. General music teachers were slightly more likely to incorporate composition in their classrooms than were ensemble directors. There were no significant relationships found between years of experience or years at a school, certification, or school use of Standards and the relative use of composing tasks. An analysis of the responses to open-ended questions revealed that teachers used composing tasks for a great variety of purposes. No one definition of composition emerged from the analysis. Instead, respondents labeled a range of activities from dictation and practicing notation and improvising to complex tasks as "composition. " The article calls for developing an operational definition and pedagogy for composition in the classroom and discusses possibilities for future research.
2006 Senior Researcher Award Acceptance Address: Observations about Music Education Research in MENC'S First and Second Centuries
Authors: Humphreys Jere T.
Published: July 2008

Jere T. Humphreys is the recipient of the MENC 2006 Senior Researcher Award. The following speech was presented on April 20, 2006, at a special session of the Society for Research in Music Education at the National Biennial In-Service Conference of MENC: The National Association for Music Education, held in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Validation of a Model of Extramusical Influences on Solo and Small-Ensemble Festival Ratings
Authors: Bergee Martin J.
Published: July 2008

This is the fourth in a series of studies whose purpose has been to develop a theoretical model of selected extramusical variables' ability to explain solo and small-ensemble festival ratings. Authors of the second and third of these (Bergee & McWhirter, 2005; Bergee & Westfall, 2005) used logistic regression as the basis for their model-building strategy. Modeling in these two studies strongly converged, demonstrating that performing as a soloist later in the day and entering from a large, metropolitan-area, relatively well-financed school were success indicators. The present study constitutes the validation phase of this series. First, the 2004 ratings data from a large Midwestern state's solo and small ensemble music festival were analyzed using binomial logistic regression. Model variables retained to this point in the process-time of day (morning/afternoon), geographical district (metropolitan/nonmetropolitan), district expenditure per average daily attendance (defined with two categorical variables), school size classification (highest/four lowest classifications), type of event (sololensemble), and the time of day by geographical district interaction—were regressed on a dichotomized ("I" vs. "not I" ) festival ratings variable. The model then underwent external (cross) validation by means of its application to the 2002 and 2003 festival data. Although some shrinkage was noted, results indicated an acceptable fit with these two data sets. For internal validation, 50 random samples of 25 % of the 2004 entrants were drawn and submitted to binomial logistic regression analysis. Then, 50 random samples of 10 % were drawn and likewise analyzed. Results indicated that estimated coefficients showed unbiasedness and consistency. On the other hand, a marked inefficiency among the estimates was found. The model also showed evidence of under specificity.
Effects of Sleep on Performance of a Keyboard Melody
Authors: Simmons Amy L. , Duke Robert A.
Published: July 2008

Recent research has shown that both the speed and accuracy of novel motor skills improve during sleep in a process called consolidation. Such off-line learning in the absence of practice as yet has been experimentally observed only with learners performing relatively simple tasks. In the experiment we report here, we tested whether experienced learners performing a music skill obtain similar sleep-dependent improvements. Participants learned a 12-note melody on the piano, and recalled the melody following 12- or 24-hour intervals that either did or did not include sleep. We found significant sleep-dependent improvements in performance accuracy in the retests that followed intervals of sleep, and no significant improvements following intervals that did not include sleep. This is the first demonstration of consolidation-based enhancement of motor skills in the context of music. We did not find consistent sleep-dependent enhancements in performance speed, but we observed that temporal evenness improved in the absence of practice 24 hours after training.
Looking Back, Looking Forward: A Report on Early Childhood Music Education in Accredited American Preschools
Authors: Lee Nardo Rachel , Custodero Lori A. , Persellin Diane C. , Fox Donna Brink
Published: July 2008

This investigation is an examination of musical practices, musical preparation of teachers, and music education needs as reported by early childhood professionals in the United States. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered via a survey mailed to a random sample drawn from the database of preschool centers accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The survey was based on criteria in the MENC national standards for pre-K music (1994b) and Opportunity-to-Learn Standards-PreK Music (1994a). Returned surveys (n = 293) reflect diversity of teacher preparation in music, how and why music is used in the early childhood curriculum, and what the music education needs are in these centers. Recommendations are offered to those concerned with the music education needs of young children and their teachers.
Relationships among Impulsiveness, Locus of Control, Sex, and Music Practice
Authors: Miksza Peter
Published: July 2008

This study is an investigation of relationships among impulsiveness, locus of control, sex, observed practice behaviors, practice effectiveness, and self-reported practice habits in a sample of 40 college brass players. Practice effectiveness was defined by the amount of change in pretest and posttest performance achievement scores over one 23-minute practice session. Each subject's practice session was analyzed for frequency of practice behaviors. Measures included the Eysenck Impulsiveness Questionnaire for Adults (1985), the Nowicki-Duke Locus of Control Scale for Adults (1974), and a researcher-designed practice questionnaire. Results indicated (a) a significant interaction effect (p < . 01) between performance achievement and impulsiveness, with subjects in the low-impulsive group outperforming those in the high-impulsive group; (b) a significant relationship (p < . 01) between subjects' locus of control and impulsiveness scores; (c) no significant differences (p > .05) in impulsiveness, locus of control, or performance achievement by sex; (d) significant relationships (p < .05) between performance achievement and the observed practice behaviors "repeat section, " "whole-part-whole, " "marks part, " and "varying pitch"; and (e) no significant relations (p > .05) between amount of time spent playing during the practice session in the study and performance achievement.
Differences between Male and Female Students' Confidence, Anxiety, and Attitude toward Learning Jazz Improvisation
Authors: Wehr-Flowers Erin
Published: July 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine the gender differences in the social-psychological constructs of confidence, anxiety, and attitude as they relate to jazz improvisation participation. Three subscales of the Fennema-Sherman Mathematics Attitude Survey (1976) were modified for this task, and surveys (N = 332) were given to students of various ages participating in jazz programs. Returned surveys (N = 137, 41 % return rate, 83 men, 54 women) were analyzed using a MANOYA design with gender, school level, and instrument choice as the independent variables. A main effect was found for gender, and a subanalysis revealed significant differences between men and women on all three dependent variables confidence, anxiety, and attitude at the level of p < .05. Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients were. 93 for confidence, . 93 for anxiety, and .88 for attitude. Results suggest that social-psychological issues are influencing female participation in jazz improvisation.
Second Language Teacher Education Today
Authors: Richards Jack C.
Published: July 2008

Second Language Teacher Education (SLTE) is affected by two factors; a rethinking of its knowledge base and instructional practices as a response to changes in our understanding of the nature of SLTE, as well as external pressures resulting from the expanded need for competent language teachers worldwide. The impact of these two factors is seen in the growing professionalism of the field with the need for acceptance of standards, a rethinking of the knowledge base of the field, a move towards a sociocultural view of teacher learning, a focus on teacher cognition as the underpinning of teacher practice, acknowledgement of the role of teacher identity in teaching and teacher learning, implementation of collaborative approaches to SLTE, the need for greater accountability, as well as critical perspectives on teacher education. These factors are examined and their implications discussed for theory and practice in SLTE.
Language Education
Authors: Krashen Stephen
Published: July 2008

The recent past in language teaching has been dominated by the Skill-Building Hypothesis, the view that we learn language by first learning about it, and then practicing the rules we learned in output. The present is marked by the emergence of the Comprehension Hypothesis, the view that we acquire language when we understand messages, and is also characterized by the beginning stages of its applications: comprehensible-input based teaching methods, sheltered subject matter teaching, and the use of extensive reading for intermediate language students. My hope is that the future will see a clearer understanding of the Comprehension Hypothesis, and the profession taking more advantage of it.
`Here's the Book, Go Teach the Class'
Authors: Farrell Thomas S.C.
Published: July 2008

The English language teaching (ELT) practicum has come to be recognized as one of the most important aspects of a learner teacher's education during their language teacher training program. During the practicum, learner English language teachers need lots of support and cooperating teachers are seen as the main source of this support because they are one of the most influential people in a learner teacher's time during teaching practice. However, within English language teaching (ELT) there is a paucity of research that specifically examines the perceptions and experiences of learner English language teachers concerning the role of support they expect, need and obtain during their practicum experiences. This paper presents one such study that explores the perceptions of 60 learner English language teachers' experiences in Singapore during the period of their school placement for teaching practice. The paper also outlines a detailed case study of eight of these teachers with respect to specific problems they experienced during their teaching practice.
Globalization and Multicultural Communication
Authors: Nihalani Paroo
Published: July 2008

Communication is one of the keywords of the global age. The ever-increasing use of English as a World language has clearly meant that British RP and American Standard English (GA) are no longer seen as the models that learners aspire to. With the global spread of English, three major related questions come to our mind: (a) diversity and multicultural identity, (b) mutually intelligible international communication, and lastly (c) the pedagogical issue of an educational target for global communication.

After a critical examination of the impact of globalization on the educational patterns in general and English language teaching in particular, this paper focuses on the intercultural communication in the global context, and examines the three much-debated major related issues of `comprehensibility', `intelligibility' and `interpretability' from the perspectives of linguistics and social psychology. Quantitative acoustic data from the Expanding Circle (Japanese English), the Outer Circle (Indian English, Malaysian English, Singapore English, Brunei English, Nigerian English, etc.), and the Inner Circle (British English, Scottish English and American English) will be presented. In conclusion, a pragmatic model that is informed by the multi-dimensional view of intelligibility and, more importantly, multicultural interpretability will be discussed in order to address the third major concern of language standardization for global communication.
Talking Sense about Learning Strategies
Authors: Swan Michael
Published: July 2008

Judicious training in the use of learning strategies can be very valuable for language students. However, the notion of `strategy' is not always well defined in the literature. For pedagogic purposes strategies need to meet certain criteria: they should be problem-oriented, subject to choice among alternatives, under conscious control, clearly describable and plausibly effective. The teaching of reading skills, in particular, commonly involves strategies which are of doubtful value; this is especially the case for training in `guessing unknown words'. Classification of strategies is notoriously problematic: taxonomies tend to be based on questionable psycholinguistic analyses and not well targeted pedagogically. While training in strategy use can contribute usefully to learner independence, this can be taken to unconstructive extremes; and such training is no substitute for basic language teaching.
Use of Subjective Global Assessment and Clinical Outcomes in Critically Ill Geriatric Patients Receiving Nutrition Support
Authors: Atalay Betül Gülşen , Yaǧmur Cahide , Nursal Tarik Zafer , Atalay Hakan , Noyan Turgut
Published: July 2008

The objective of this study is to examine the prevalence of malnutrition and evaluate the nutrition status and clinical outcome in hospitalized patients aged 65 years and older receiving enteral‐parenteral nutrition. This retrospective study was carried out at Başkent University Hospital, Adana, Turkey. A total of 119 patients older than 65 years were recruited. Patients were classified into 3 groups: protein‐energy malnutrition (PEM), moderate PEM, and well nourished according to subjective global assessment (SGA) at admission. All patients were fed by enteral or parenteral route. Acute physiological and chronic health evaluation (APACHE‐2) and simplified acute physiology (SAPS 2) scores were recorded in patients followed in the intensive care unit (ICU). Nutrition status was assessed with biochemical (serum albumin, serum prealbumin) parameters. These results were compared with mortality rate and length of hospital stay (LOS). The subjects' mean (±SD) age was 73.1 ± 5.4 years. Using SGA, 5.9% (n = 7) of the patients were classified as severely PEM, 27.7% (n = 33) were classified as moderately PEM, and 66.4% (n = 79) were classified as well nourished. Some 73.1% (n = 87) of the patients were followed in the ICU. Among all patients, 42.9% (n = 51) were fed by a combined enteral‐parenteral route, 31.1% (n = 37) by an enteral route, 18.5% (n = 22) by a parenteral route, and 7.6% (n = 9) by an oral route. The average length of stay for the patients was 18.9 ± 13.7 days. The mortality rate was 44.5% (n = 53). The mortality rate was 43% (n = 34) in well‐nourished patients (n = 79), 48.5% (n = 16) in moderately PEM patients (n = 33), and 42.9% (n = 3) in severely PEM patients (n = 7) (P = .86). The authors observed no difference between well‐nourished and malnourished patients with regard to the serum protein values on admission, LOS, and mortality rate. In this study, malnutrition as defined by SGA did not influence the mortality rate of critically ill geriatric patients receiving enteral or parenteral nutrition. Furthermore, no factor was found to be a good predictor of survival.
The Enteral vs Parenteral Nutrition Debate Revisited
Authors: Thomson Andrew
Published: July 2008

Many trials and several meta‐analyses have been devoted to comparing enteral with parenteral nutrition support. In this review, these studies are subjected to critical analysis with particular emphasis on their methodology and clinical relevance. Evidence is produced to suggest that the heterogeneous patient populations of the studies and the rigid approach taken to comparing different nutrition therapies inter alia render their conclusions highly questionable and of very doubtful clinical significance. An alternative approach to nutrition research is suggested in which strategies of nutrition support rather than fixed menus are compared. It is suggested that objective measures of intestinal function be evaluated more fully in patients requiring nonvolitional nutrition support, and these are briefly reviewed. In addition, a more scientific approach to evaluating the physiological effects of nutrition support, including chemical tagging and evaluation of muscle function, is recommended.
How Accurate Are Resting Energy Expenditure Prediction Equations in Obese Trauma and Burn Patients?
Authors: Stucky Chee‐Chee H. , Moncure Michael , Hise Mary , Gossage Clint M. , Northrop David
Published: July 2008

Background: While the prevalence of obesity continues to increase in our society, outdated resting energy expenditure (REE) prediction equations may overpredict energy requirements in obese patients. Accurate feeding is essential since overfeeding has been demonstrated to adversely affect outcomes. Objectives: The first objective was to compare REE calculated by prediction equations to the measured REE in obese trauma and burn patients. Our hypothesis was that an equation using fat‐free mass would give a more accurate prediction. The second objective was to consider the effect of a commonly used injury factor on the predicted REE. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 28 patients. REE was measured using indirect calorimetry and compared with the Harris‐Benedict and Cunningham equations, and an equation using type II diabetes as a factor. Statistical analyses used were paired t test,± 95% confidence interval, and the Bland‐Altman method. Results: Measured average REE in trauma and burn patients was 21.37± 5.26 and 21.81 ± 3.35 kcal/kg/d, respectively. Harris‐Benedict underpredicted REE in trauma and burn patients to the least extent, while the Cunningham equation underpredicted REE in both populations to the greatest extent. Using an injury factor of 1.2, Cunningham continued to underestimate REE in both populations, while the Harris‐Benedict and Diabetic equations overpredicted REE in both populations. Conclusions: The measured average REE is significantly less than current guidelines. This finding suggests that a hypocaloric regimen is worth considering for ICU patients. Also, if an injury factor of 1.2 is incorporated in certain equations, patients may be given too many calories.
The Incidence of PICC Line–Associated Thrombosis With and Without the Use of Prophylactic Anticoagulants
Authors: Paauw James D. , Borders Heather , Ingalls Nichole , Boomstra Sarah , Lambke Susan , Fedeson Brian , Goldsmith Austin , Davis Alan T.
Published: July 2008

Background: Indications for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) for long‐term venous access have grown during the last several years. There are various complications associated with PICC lines, a common one being venous thrombosis. This study's purpose was to determine the incidence of venous thrombosis associated with PICCs with and without prophylactic anticoagulants. Methods: In this observational, prospective, cohort study, patients with PICC lines were evaluated using Doppler ultrasound for the presence of PICC‐associated venous thrombosis at 5‐7 days and again at 12‐14 days after line placement. When present, clinical signs and symptoms of thrombosis were documented. Fifty‐six patients were evaluated for the type of anticoagulation used, if any, and other clinical parameters such as smoking, ambulation, and previous surgery. The incidence of thrombus was then calculated for the entire population as well as for specific patient subgroups. Results: Patient age was 55.7 ± 2.6 (mean± SEM) years, and BMI was 28.2 ± 1.2 (n = 56). There were 38 (67.9%) nonambulatory subjects, 15 (26.8%) smokers, 4 (7.1%) coagulopathic subjects, 2 (3.6%) patients receiving estrogen‐containing medications, 25 (44.6%) who had undergone surgery within the past 6 months, and 5 (8.9%) cancer patients. There were 21/56 patients (37.5%) with thrombus. Patients who received anticoagulation had a 22.9% (8/35) incidence of thrombosis, which was significantly less (P < .05) than for those who received no anticoagulant (13/21, 61.9%). Conclusion: The use of anticoagulants for prophylaxis in patients with a PICC line was associated with a decreased rate of associated venous thrombosis.
Immunologic Properties Differ in Preterm Infants Fed Olive Oil vs Soy‐Based Lipid Emulsions During Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Gawecka Agnieszka , Michalkiewicz Jacek , Kornacka Maria Katarzyna , Luckiewicz Barbara , Kubiszewska Iza
Published: July 2008

Background: In the first period of life, premature infants need parenteral nutrition. Lipid emulsions (LEs), which are a part of parenteral nutrition, are known as potent immunological modulators and may therefore influence the immune status of parenterally fed infants. The aim of the study was to compare tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐6, and IL‐10 production in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of premature infants parenterally fed with 2 LEs: olive oil (OO) and soybean oil (SO). Methods: Premature infants born at <32 weeks' gestation and with a birth weight <1500 g were randomized in a double‐blind method within the first 48 hours of life to receive 1 of 2 LEs: OO based or SO based. At baseline and after 14 days, blood samples were collected, and PBMCs were isolated and then cultured for 48 hours in medium only and in the presence of anti‐CD3 antibodies. Results: Of 44 recruited infants, 38 completed the study, 18 in the OO group and 20 in the SO group. The cytokine synthesis profile before the LE introduction was the same in both groups (nonstimulated and anti‐CD3‐induced PBMC). In the succeeding 14 days of parenteral nutrition, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐10 levels in nonstimulated PBMCs remained unchanged in both groups. In contrast, IL‐6 production was significantly higher in the SO group. Conclusions: SO–based LE may promote an excess of IL‐6 production, especially in the T cell–dependent way of PBMC activation (via anti‐CD3). OO emulsion seems to be immunologically more neutral than SO emulsion.
Weekly Measurements Accurately Represent Trends in Resting Energy Expenditure in Children Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Duro Debora , Bechard Lori J. , Feldman Henry A. , Klykov Arkady , O'Leary Alice , Guinan Eva C. , Duggan Christopher
Published: July 2008

Background: Resting energy expenditure (REE) measurements are optimal for accurate assessment of energy requirements and precise provision of parenteral nutrients. We previously observed significant reduction in REE during a 4‐week period in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The goal of this study was to determine if weekly REE measurements could accurately represent changes in REE in the peritransplant period compared with a more frequent standard of daily measurements. Methods: Data are presented from a previously described cohort of 37 children undergoing HSCT. We performed weekly indirect calorimetry on 25 patients; of those 25, we performed daily measurements on a convenience sample of 5 children. The time course of REE was analyzed in each sample by repeated measures regression. Results: The REE trend of the 20 weekly participants was similar to that of the 5 daily participants, reaching about 80% of predicted REE at 4 weeks posttransplant, with an average decline of 3.4% per week during 4 weeks. Conclusion: The results suggest that weekly REE measurements accurately characterize REE changes 4 weeks after HSCT compared with daily measurements. Characterization of these trends using weekly measurements may help guide clinical and nutrition care of these patients.
Effect of Citrulline and Glutamine on Nitric Oxide Production in RAW 264.7 Cells in an Arginine‐Depleted Environment
Authors: Bryk Jodie , Ochoa Juan B. , Correia M. Isabel TD , Munera‐Seeley Veronica , Popovic Petar J.
Published: July 2008

Background: Nitric oxide (NO) is a highly reactive free radical essential for antimicrobial and tumor immunity as well as endothelial function. Arginine is a limiting factor in NO synthesis. Citrulline can be converted to arginine and might restore NO production when arginine availability is limited, while glutamine may competitively inhibit citrulline availability. We aimed to assess how these amino acids interact to generate NO using an in vitro model. Methods: RAW 264.7 cells were exposed to various amino acid concentrations before and after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, and NO production was assessed. Results: NO production directly correlated up to 200 μM with arginine available after LPS stimulation (R 2 = 0.99). Provided the same arginine concentrations following LPS stimulation, low arginine precultured cells produced significantly less NO than high arginine precultured cells (P < .01). Citrulline added to low arginine preculture significantly increased NO production compared to cells in low arginine alone (P < .01). When glutamine was withdrawn before and after LPS stimulation, cells precultured in low arginine and citrulline produced NO equivalent to that of high arginine precultured cells. Additional citrulline provided after LPS stimulation additionally improved NO production beyond that observed in cells precultured in high arginine (P < .01), and NO production became less dependent on arginine availability (R 2 = 0.78). Conclusion: Arginine availability is a limiting factor for NO production. Citrulline is a potential substitute to restore NO production when arginine availability is limited. Glutamine appears to be an important modulator that interferes with citrulline‐mediated NO production.
Impact of High‐Dose Antioxidants on Outcomes in Acutely Injured Patients
Authors: Collier Bryan R. , Giladi Aviram , Dossett Lesly A. , Dyer Lindsay , Fleming Sloan B. , Cotton Bryan A.
Published: July 2008

Background: The profound oxidative stress that occurs following injury results in significant depletion of many endogenous antioxidants (vitamin C, E, selenium). Increasing evidence suggests antioxidant supplementation reduces infectious complications and organ dysfunction following injury and hemorrhagic shock. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of high‐dose antioxidant administration on the mortality rate of acutely injured patients. Methods: In October 2005, we implemented a 7‐day high‐dose antioxidant protocol for acutely injured patients admitted to our trauma center. A retrospective cohort study, evaluating all patients admitted to the trauma service between October 2005 and September 2006 following protocol implementation (AO+), was performed. The comparison cohort (AO–) was made up of those patients admitted in the year prior to protocol implementation. Results: A total of 4,294 patients met criteria (AO+, N = 2,272; AO–, N = 2022). Hospital (4 vs 3 days, P < .001) and ICU (3 vs 2 days, P = .001) median length of stays were significantly shorter in the AO+ group. Mortality was significantly lower in the AO+ group (6.1% vs 8.5%, P = .001), translating into a 28% relative risk reduction for mortality in patients exposed to high‐dose antioxidants. After adjusting for age, gender, and probability of survival, AO exposure was associated with even lower mortality (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.22‐0.46). Patients with an expected survival <50% benefited most (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.15‐0.37). Conclusions: A high‐dose antioxidant protocol resulted in a 28% relative risk reduction in mortality and a significant reduction in both hospital and ICU length of stay. This protocol represents an inexpensive intervention to reduce mortality/morbidity in the trauma patient.
Beyond Surviving
Authors: Hunter Sally V.
Published: July 2008

The aim of this research project was to explore how men and women constructed a sense of self through narrative following an early sexual experience with an adult. Using narrative inquiry methodology, 22 in-depth interviews were conducted in New South Wales, Australia, with 13 women and 9 men ages between 25 and 70. All participants had an early sexual experience at the age of 15 or younger with someone 18 or older. Narrative analysis was used to examine the co-constructed stories that emerged. Participants told four evolving narratives about their experiences: narratives of silence, of ongoing suffering, of transformation, and of transcendence. The gender differences between these narratives have been examined in the light of the literature relating to childhood sexual abuse, the victim and survivor discourses, and the social construction of gender.
Differential Forces within the Proximal Patellar Tendon as an Explanation for the Characteristic Lesion of Patellar Tendinopathy
Authors: Dillon Edwin Mark , Erasmus Pieter J. , Müller Jacobus H. , Scheffer Cornie , de Villiers Richard V. P.
Published: July 2008

Background

Patellar tendinopathy is a common condition affecting the posterior region of the proximal patellar tendon, but the reason for this typical location remains unclear.

Hypothesis

The posterior region of the proximal patellar tendon is subjected to greater tendinous forces than is the corresponding anterior region.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Method

An optic fiber technique was used to detect forces in both the anterior and the posterior regions of the proximal patellar tendon in 7 healthy persons. The optic fiber force sensor works on the principle of the amplitude modulation of transmitted light when the optic fiber is geometrically altered owing to the forces acting on it. Longitudinal strain in the tendon or ligament produces a negative transverse strain, thus causing a force that effectively squeezes the optic fiber. Measurements were recorded during the following exercises: closed kinetic chain quadriceps contraction (eccentric and concentric), open kinetic chain quadriceps contraction (eccentric and concentric), a step exercise, and a jump exercise.

Results

During all the exercises, the peak differential signal output in the posterior location of the proximal patellar tendon was greater than in the corresponding anterior location. The greatest differential signal output was found in the jump and squat exercises.

Conclusion

The posterior region of the proximal patellar tendon is subjected to greater tendinous forces than is the corresponding anterior region. This finding supports the tensile-overload theory of patellar tendinopathy.

Clinical Relevance

Jump activities and deep squat exercises expose the patellar tendon to very large tendinous forces.
Reliability of Navigated Lower Limb Alignment in High Tibial Osteotomies
Authors: Goleski Patrick , Warkentine Blaine , Lo Darrick , Gyuricza Cassie , Kendoff Daniel , Pearle Andrew D.
Published: July 2008

Background

Navigation allows for determination of the mechanical axis of the lower extremity during high tibial osteotomy (HTO) procedures. The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate the reliability of noninvasive registration with an image-free navigation system for HTO and (2) determine the accuracy of the navigation system to monitor changes in lower limb alignment as compared with alignment measured with a novel 3-dimensional computed tomography method.

Hypothesis

Navigated limb alignment demonstrates good reliability and accuracy in all 3 planes.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

Thirteen cadaver legs were used to examine the intra- and interobserver registration reliability of 3 observers. Initial coronal, sagittal, and axial alignment was measured on 6 legs, 3 times each, at intervals >36 hours. Navigated HTOs were then performed on all 13 legs, pre- and postoperative alignment was recorded, and data were compared with equivalent measures obtained by 3-dimensional computed tomography. Reliability and accuracy data were both analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients with the following established thresholds: good, >0.75; fair, 0.4 to 0.75; and poor, <0.4.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients for intraobserver reliability were categorized as follows: varus-valgus, good; flexion-extension fair; and femoral-tibial rotation, poor. For interobserver reliability, results were varus-valgus, fair; flexion-extension, fair; and femoral-tibial rotation, poor. Intraclass correlation coefficients for navigation accuracy were varus-valgus, good; tibial slope, good; and tibial torsion, poor. Maximum differences in navigation-computed tomography measurements were Δ varus-valgus angle, 4.5°; Δ tibial slope, 8.8°; and Δ tibial torsion, 16.5°.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Navigation may be reliable and clinically useful for dynamic monitoring of coronal leg alignment but has limits in determination of sagittal and axial plane alignment.
South-South Trade in Manufactures: Current Performance and Obstacles for Growth
Authors: Dahi Omar S. , Demir Firat
Published: July 2008

The last two decades have witnessed resurgence in South-South trade, investment, and regional integration. This article examines trade performance in total and technology-and-skill-intensive manufactures for a sample of twenty-eight developing countries with both developed (South-North) and other developing (South-South) countries. Previous studies and our sample data show that South-South trade in manufactures is characterized by higher capital and skill-intensive factor content relative to South-North trade, with major implications for development in the South, including the possibility of dynamic gains through learning by exporting, technological externalities, allocative efficiencies, and scale economies. The article concludes by discussing obstacles to increasing South-South trade and possibilities for future research on the topic.
Acoustic Pyrometry using an Off-the-Shelf Range Finding System
Authors: Hanson Thomas A. , Yilmaz Nadir , Drozda Pat , Gill Walter , Miller Timothy J. , Donaldson A. Burl
Published: July 2008

In this study, the development and validation of a non-invasive flame temperature measurement tool from an off-the-shelf ultrasonic rangefinder is discussed. Both `pulse-echo' and single-pass methods are tested. The application of this device to the measurement of bench top flame temperatures is presented.
Flame Retardant Finishing of Cotton Fleece Fabric: Part III — The Combination of Maleic Acid and Sodium Hypophosphite
Authors: Xialing Wu  , Yang Charles Q.
Published: July 2008

Cotton fleece does not meet the federal flammability standard (16 CFR Part 1610: `Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles') without chemical treatment. In this research, the chemical reactions of maleic acid (MA) on cotton in the presence of sodium hypophosphite (NaH2PO 2) and the use of the combination of MA and NaH2PO 2 as a flame retardant finishing system for cotton fleece are investigated. It has been found that MA esterifies cotton cellulose at relatively low temperatures in the presence of NaH2PO2 as catalyst, and that MA esterified to cotton is able to further react with NaH2PO 2 at higher temperatures (≥150°C), which bonds phosphorus to the cotton cellulose. The reactions between MA and NaH2PO2 on cotton also lead to the cross-linking of cotton cellulose. The treatment using the combination of MA and NaH2PO2 is effective in reducing the flammability of cotton fleece from `Class III' to `Class I' (16CFR1610). This is a nonformaldehyde and low cost flame retardant finishing system for cotton fleece. The treated cotton fleece still maintains `Class I' flammability after 20 home laundering cycles.
Flame Retardancy of Polycarbonate upon Repeated Recycling
Authors: Statler David , Stajduhar Evan , Gupta Rakesh K.
Published: July 2008

In this study, two polycarbonates are put through multiple cycles of a process that involves drying the resin, extruding, and pelletizing it, drying the pellets and injection molding them into test specimens, followed by granulation. While one of the polycarbonates contain potassium diphenylsulfone sulfonate (KSS) as a flame retardant, the other polycarbonate is flame retarded with bromine. The recycling process is repeated up to eight times, and after each cycle, flammability and mechanical tests are conducted. Thermogravimetric analysis and capillary rheometry are also performed. It is found that both flame retardants maintain their effectiveness, but the notched Izod impact strength suffers upon recycling, with the polymer containing KSS displaying marginally better mechanical properties.
Choosing paths in European Union health services policy: a political analysis of a critical juncture
Authors: Greer Scott L.
Published: July 2008

Health services policy in the European Union is at a critical juncture: a moment at which decisions are highly contingent but, once taken, will shape politics and policy for the future. There is no established EU health services policy community or trajectory because EU health services politics have been a reaction to decisions by the European Court of Justice. Instead, there are a range of different models of health policy, each with different logics, lineages, policy tools and bureaucratic sponsors. The decisions taken in this fluid situation will shape future policy because of the importance and `stickiness' of the EU. Once the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has taken a decision or legislation has been passed, it is difficult to undo. This article explains the challenges that created an EU policy arena where none had been; the reasons that decisions taken now will be subject to the logic of path dependency; and the different models that are being put forward for the EU.
Restructuring the welfare state: reforms in long-term care in Western European countries
Authors: Pavolini Emmanuele , Ranci Costanzo
Published: July 2008

Faced with the problems associated with an ageing society, many European countries have adopted innovative policies to achieve a better balance between the need to expand social care and the imperative to curb public spending. Although embedded within peculiar national traditions, these new policies share some characteristics: (a) a tendency to combine monetary transfers to families with the provision of in-kind services; (b) the establishment of a new social care market based on competition; (c) the empowerment of users through their increased purchasing power; and (d) the introduction of funding measures intended to foster care-giving through family networks. This article presents the most significant reforms recently introduced in six European countries (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and the UK) as regards long-term care. It analyses their impact at the macro- (institutional and quantitative), meso- (service delivery structures) and micro-level (families, caregivers and people in need). As a result the authors find a general trend towards convergence in social care among the countries, and the emergence of a new type of government regulation designed to restructure rather than to reduce welfare programmes.
Shared housework in Norway and Sweden: advancing the gender revolution
Authors: Bernhardt Eva , Noack Turid , Lyngstad Torkild Hovde
Published: July 2008

In the first part of the gender revolution, women have entered the public spheres of education, employment and politics. The next step is the process by which men enter the private sphere and share the responsibility for the care of home and children equally with their female partners. Using comparable survey data, we investigate to what extent this process is underway in Norway and Sweden, analysing both ideal and actual sharing. Young Swedish couples are clearly more in favour of egalitarian sharing of housework than their Norwegian counterparts, and also seem to apply this ideal in reality to a greater extent. This is probably due to Sweden's longer history of gender equality norms, which are more `institutionalized' in public policies (thus demonstrating path dependency). However, more or less the same explanatory factors were established to be important as those found by researchers of other, less gender-equal, societies.
Too late for gender mainstreaming? Taking stock in Brussels
Authors: Woodward Alison E.
Published: July 2008

Gender mainstreaming is one of the major strategies adopted by the European Union and member states for achieving gender equality. It is seen as a major success, and other social movements have begun to demand mainstreaming for their issues in European social policy. This article considers eight recent studies which include Belgium, a middle case as far as European gender equality is concerned. They show meagre results in terms of altering the understanding of equality policy to include a gender perspective, and applying efforts transversally. The article also evaluates the successes and challenges of the gender mainstreaming strategy ten years after its adoption. It then examines the changes in the organization of EU equality issues with regard to diversity and the implications for the gender mainstreaming strategy. These changes include efforts to address new target groups under Article 13 as well as the issues posed by enlargement. It thus addresses the question: To what extent can experience relating to gender mainstreaming be utilized to meet evolving demands? Recent developments in intersectional theory may offer fruitful new angles.
A Harmonious Duet
Authors: Miller Beth Ann
Published: July 2008

Children's literature is a natural complement to music education. This article suggests four major ways that trade books can support learning in music classes. It will give specific examples of literature that focuses on music and musicians, literature that supports general academic goals through music, literature that helps students understand music concepts, and literature that provides scaffolding for composition. The reader is not only provided with rationale for including literary examples in music instruction but is also given designs for planning lessons.