bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphologic and Molecular Analysis of 39 Spontaneous Feline Pulmonary Carcinomas
Authors: D’Costa S. , Yoon B.-I. , Kim D.-Y. , Motsinger-Reif A. A. , Williams M. , Kim Y.
Published: September 2011

The present study was performed to determine the morphologic change and selected molecular features of spontaneous lung tumors in cats examined at the North Carolina State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Thirty-nine primary lung carcinomas represented 0.69% of all feline cases admitted to the hospital. Most lung tumors were observed in aged cats ( P < .0001), and no sex predilection was found ( P < .4241). Persian cats with pulmonary carcinoma were overrepresented in the data set, at least 4 times more frequently than other breeds. The histologic tumor types included adenocarcinoma (64.1%), bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (20.5%), and adenosquamous carcinoma (15.4%). Metastasis was observed in about 80% of 39 cases, with decreasing order of intrapulmonary metastasis, intrathoracic carcinomatosis, regional lymph nodes, and distant organs, including digits. The size of the largest tumor mass was significantly associated with metastatic potential ( P < .001). Based on immunohistochemistry, more than 80% (20 of 24) of feline lung tumors were positively labeled with either surfactant protein A or thyroid transcription factor 1. Epidermal growth factor receptor mutant and p53 proteins were detected in approximately 20% (5 of 24) and 25% (6 of 24) of the feline lung tumor cases, respectively. Limited sequencing analysis of K-ras and p53 genes in 3 selected normal and neoplastic lung tissues did not reveal any alteration. Results indicate that primary lung carcinomas are rare but aggressive tumors in cats, thereby warranting further studies on molecular carcinogenesis.
Neurolymphomatosis in a Dog With B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Schaffer P. A. , Charles J. B. , Tzipory L. , Ficociello J. E. , Marvel S. J. , Barrera J. , Spraker T. R. , Ehrhart E. J.
Published: September 2011

Lymphoma in the left femoral nerve of a 10-year-old English Cocker Spaniel caused complete paralysis of the affected limb. Neoplastic cells were immunopositive for CD79a and Pax5 and negative for CD3. Neoplastic cells were in multiple lymph nodes and one kidney but spared bone marrow. The clinical and histologic features in this case resemble those of the rare human condition of neurolymphomatosis.
Arthroscopic Versus Open Distal Clavicle Excision
Authors: Robertson William J. , Griffith Matthew H. , Carroll Kaitlin , O’Donnell Thomas , Gill Thomas J.
Published: September 2011

Background: While few comparative studies exist, it has been suggested that open distal clavicle excisions (DCEs) provide inferior results when compared with the all-arthroscopic technique.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the intermediate-term (5-year follow-up) results of patients undergoing arthroscopic versus open DCE for the treatment of recalcitrant acromioclavicular joint pain.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: All patients who underwent an arthroscopic or open DCE between January 1999 and September 2006 were reviewed. Forty-eight patients (49 shoulders; 32 arthroscopic, 17 open) following DCE without significant glenohumeral pathologic changes were included. The mean follow-up for group I (open) and group II (arthroscopic) was 5.3 years and 4.2 years, respectively. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, surgical time, and minimum radiographic acromioclavicular joint distance were calculated. Each patient completed a questionnaire assessing their scar satisfaction, percentage of normal shoulder function, and willingness to have the surgery again. Risk factors for poor outcomes were analyzed.

Results: Arthroscopic patients had significantly less pain ( P = .035) by VAS (0.61 ± 1.02) compared with open (1.59 ± 2.15) at final follow-up. There was no significant difference between group I and group II with regard to ASES (87.5 ± 17.6 vs 94.6 ± 8.6), percentage of normal shoulder function (89.7% ± 12.5 vs 92.9% ± 8.6), average operative time (53.1 minutes vs 48 minutes), or radiographic resection distance (12.8 ± 2.1 mm vs 9.5 ± 2.9 mm). In the open group, patients with 16 of 17 shoulders were satisfied with their scar and 100% would do it again. In the arthroscopic group, patients with 31 of 32 shoulders (97%) were both satisfied and would have the surgery again.

Conclusion: Open and arthroscopic DCE are both effective surgeries to treat recalcitrant acromioclavicular joint pain. At intermediate-term follow-up, they provide similarly good to excellent results with regard to patient satisfaction and shoulder function. Although both are effective treatments, less residual pain was found using the arthroscopic technique.
Multi-walled carbon nanotubes/silicone rubber nanocomposites prepared by high shear mechanical mixing
Authors: Katihabwa Aloys , Wencai Wang  , Yi Jiang  , Xiuying Zhao  , Yonglai Lu  , Liqun Zhang
Published: September 2011

MWCNTs reinforced SiR nanocomposites were prepared through a high-shear mechanical mixing technique, using DCP as a curing agent. Under optimum conditions, the MWCNTs can be dispersed homogeneously in the SiR matrix to improve the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites such as tensile strength, elongation at break, and hardness were evaluated. In addition, the degree of crystallinity and the supercooling were calculated to characterize the crystallization behavior. From DSC study, it has been determined that the degree of crystallinity Xc and the super cooling ΔT, generally characterize the crystallization behavior of the nanocomposites. A decrease in Xc and ΔT indicate that the crystallization rate of the nanococomposites is increased. After pyrolysis, with the increase of CNT content, the decomposition rate or/and the weight loss of the nanocomposites decreased. The dispersion of carbon nanotubes in silicone rubber was characterized by using SEM. Finally, the effect of carbon nanotubes loading on electrical, thermal conductivity, and the Payne effect was also investigated.
Effect of organoclay on mechanical and thermal properties of polycaprolactone/ chitosan/montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: Abdolmohammadi Sanaz , Wan Md Zin Wan Yunus  , Mohamad Zaki AB Rahman  , Azowa Ibrahim Nor
Published: September 2011

This study investigates the effects of sodium montmorillonite (Na MMT) and organoclay montmorillonite (ODA-MMT) on mechanical and thermal properties and surface morphology of polycaprolactone (PCL)/chitosan composites. The organoclay was prepared via ion exchange reaction, using octadecylamine (ODA) as an organic modifier. Nanocomposites of PCL/chitosan/ODA-MMT and microcomposite of PCL/chitosan/Na MMT were prepared by melt blending technique and were characterized. XRD and TEM results indicate the formation of intercalated-exfoliated nanostructure at low ODA-MMT contents. Tensile measurement shows an increase in tensile modulus, but a decrease in elongation at break for both micro and nanocomposites as the Na MMT and ODA-MMT contents are increased. Tensile strength is improved with the addition of up to 3 wt% of ODA-MMT but is decreased with further additions of the modified clay in the nanocomposites. However, it is reduced by the addition of Na MMT into the composite. Thermal stability in both nanocomposite and microcomposite is enhanced, particularly in the nanocomposites; the maximum thermal stability was observed at 3 wt% of ODA-MMT loading. The fractured surface morphology of the PCL/chitosan blend becomes more stretched and homogeneous in PCL/chitosan/ODA-MMT than in PCL/chitosan/Na MMT.
Experimental study on mechanical properties of groundnut shell particle-reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Raju G.U. , Kumarappa S.
Published: September 2011

In recent years, there is a growing interest in the use of bio-fibers as reinforcements for thermoplastics and thermosets. A lot of research work has been performed all over the world on the use of natural fibers such as flax, bamboo, sisal, hemp, and jute as reinforcing materials for the preparation of various types of composites. In this study, the agricultural residue such as groundnut shell particles were chemically modified and added to the polymer to form novel bio-based composites. Composite boards were fabricated by randomly distributed groundnut shell particles of different grain sizes and epoxy resin with volume percentages of 70:30, 65:35, and 60:40. The composites prepared were characterized for some mechanical properties according to ASTM standards. The highest tensile strength, tensile modulus, MOR, and impact strength were observed for the sample having groundnut shell particles and epoxy resin proportion 60:40 and 0.5 mm particle size. However, the sample with 60:40 particles and resin proportion and 1 mm particle size has maximum MOE. Moisture absorption test reveals that water absorption decreases with increase in epoxy content. The results of this study showed that composite could be successfully developed using groundnut shell particles and epoxy which would be a substitute for wood-based material in many applications.
Extrusion and injection-molding of glass fiber/MAPP/polypropylene: effect of coupling agent on DSC, DMA, and mechanical properties
Authors: Hassan Aziz , Rahman Normasmira Abd. , Yahya Rosiyah
Published: September 2011

Glass fiber-reinforced PP composites compatibilized with maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) were compounded with a twin-screw extruder and injection molded. The composite specimens were subjected to DSC, DMA, tensile, and flexural property characterizations. DSC results showed that the presence of glass fiber loading and MAPP produced insignificant effect on the melting temperature of the composites. The melting enthalpy was decreased with glass fiber loadings, but no significant change was noted in the crystalline peak temperatures ([Formula: see text]). Incorporation of the compatibilizer led to a reduction in [Formula: see text]. Incorporation of glass fiber reduced the crystalline enthalpy of compatibilized and uncompatibilized systems. DMA results showed that composite properties were affected by the presence of the compatibilizer at low fiber loading (≤14% Vf). Tensile and flexural properties also showed sensible improvement of compatibilized against uncompatibilized composite systems.
The Experience of Sexual Risk Communication in African American Families Living With HIV
Authors: Cederbaum Julie A.
Published: September 2011

Mother-daughter communication plays an influential role in adolescent development. The impact of maternal HIV infection on family communication is not clear. This study explores how living with HIV impacts sexual risk communication between mothers and daughters and whether maternal HIV status influences adolescent choices about engagement in HIV risk behaviors. Data were collected from 12 African American women and 10 of their adolescent daughters through focus groups. Both mothers and daughters shared information about issues that promoted and inhibited communication and engagement in risk behaviors. Findings show that HIV status served as a mechanism for behavioral change related to communication and risk engagement behaviors. Therefore, HIV-infected mothers should be supported in communicating values and expectations to their daughters.
The impact of the nature of nanoclay on physical and mechanical properties of polypropylene/reed flour nanocomposites
Authors: Najafi Abdollah , Kord Behzad , Abdi Ali , Ranaee Saeed
Published: September 2011

In this study, the effect of nanoclay on the physical and mechanical properties of nanocomposites was investigated. Composites based on polypropylene, reed fiber, coupling agent (maleated polypropylene, MAPP) and nanoclay were made by melt compounding and then injection molding. The mass ratio of reed fiber to polypropylene was controlled at 60/40 for all blends. The concentration was varied and set to 0, 2 and 4 per hundred compounds (phc) for nanoclay and 0 and 2 phc for MAPP. Results indicated that the tensile modulus and strength of PP/reed flour composites significantly increased with nanoclay loading. However, the impact strength and water uptake of the composites decreased by addition of nanoclay. Finally, the mechanical and physical analyses showed that the biggest improvement of these properties can be achieved for the nanoclay loading at 4 phc. The morphology of the nanocomposites has been examined by using X-ray diffraction. The morphological findings revealed that intercalation from the sample with 4 phc concentration of clay, which implies the formation of intercalation morphology and better dispersion, and the d-spacing of clay layers were improved in the composite in the presence of MAPP. Additionally, the coupling agent improved the mechanical and physical properties of the composites.
Children’s rights and research processes: Assisting children to (in)formed views
Authors: Lundy Laura , McEvoy Lesley
Published: September 2011

Acknowledging children as rights-holders has significant implications for research processes. What is distinctive about a children’s rights informed approach to research is a focus not only on safe, inclusive and engaging opportunities for children to express their views but also on deliberate strategies to assist children in the formation of their views. The article reflects on a body of work with children as co-researchers and as participants and demonstrates that building capacity on the substantive research issues enables children to contribute more confidently. It concludes with a conceptualization of this approach integrating relevant international children’s rights standards.
Experimental study on a two-stage rolling piston CO2 compressor based on p–V indicator diagrams
Authors: Yang J , Qi Z , Chen J , Chen Z
Published: September 2011

In this article, a new two-stage rolling piston CO2 compressor was developed. A test rig was designed to measure the performance of this compressor. Based on the measured p–V indicator diagram, the distributions of indicated power and compressor performance under various operating conditions have been analysed in detail. It is shown that the discharge passage loss of the first stage and the suction passage loss of the second stage are much higher than other losses for the tested compressor. The overall efficiency of the tested compressor decreases by 1.2 per cent with the decrease of the discharge pressure at the same suction conditions. It is also found that the superheating at the compressor inlet has very small (0.3 per cent) effect on the compressor performance.
Employee welfare and restructuring in the public sector: Evidence from Poland and Serbia
Authors: Bernaciak Magdalena , Duman Anil , Šćepanović Vera
Published: September 2011

Labour in Central-Eastern Europe is widely regarded as a uniformly weak actor. We challenge this view, and explore the conditions under which CEE labour can play an active role in the welfare reform process. We draw on evidence from education and health care in Poland and Serbia, and show that public sector unions have largely retained their ability to prevent major restructuring and to defend employment-related privileges of their constituencies. The unions’ resilience is explained by the fact that the public sector in these countries remains sheltered from competitive pressures by delayed privatization, and by the extensive structural and associational power enjoyed by public sector employees.
County Administrator Perspectives on the Implementation of Self-Directed Supports
Authors: Hall-Lande Jennifer , Hewitt Amy , Bogenschutz Matthew , LaLiberte Traci
Published: September 2011

Self-directed supports are a program or service option in which individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), their families, and their allies directly manage their supports. This study explores the perspectives of county-level administrators in the implementation of one state’s self-directed support option for people with IDD. Perspectives of local-level administrators are important as they have key leadership roles concerning policy, program implementation, and program accountability. As the prevalence of self-directed supports increases, it is important to understand both the successes and challenges faced by local administrators as they implement this service option. A qualitative research methodology was used for this study, following a grounded theory analytic approach. In-depth semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with county directors of Developmental Disability Services as the primary source of data for this study. Analysis of the semi-structured interviews with the county-level administrators and staff revealed both successes and challenges with the self-directed waiver option. Many county administrators cited changes in professional philosophy, improved quality of life, higher staff quality, and lower costs as major sucof the self-directed waiver option. Challenges of the self-directed waiver option consisted of need for clear policy guidelines, program changes, and monitoring of outcomes. The results of this study illuminate both the successes and chalof self-directed service implementation for individuals with IDD from the perspectives of the local adminwho are responsible for the direct management of programs for individuals with IDD. This research presents important implications for the design, implementation, and modification of future self-directed initiatives.
Torsional Behavior of NiTi Wires and Tubes: Modeling and Experimentation
Authors: Chapman Cory , Eshghinejad Ahmadreza , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: September 2011

Torsional shape memory and superelastic NiTi elements provide low-profile, effective solutions for many biomedical applications such as orthopedic and orthotic devices. In this article, two different modeling approaches are used to model the torsional behavior of these alloys. For thin-walled tubes, a 1D model is adapted, while for thicker elements, a 3D model is chosen. Both of these models are implemented in the form of FE solutions. Experiments are conducted to find the modeling parameters, verify models, and compare the performance of these two modeling methods. These models are further used to for geometric and parametric studies of NiTi elements in torsion.
Inducing recovery stress of NiTiNb SMA wires using heat of hydration for confining concrete
Authors: Choi Eunsoo , Cho Baik-Soon , Park Joonam , Park Kyoungsoo
Published: September 2011

This study suggests the utilization of heat of hydration of concrete to activate the shape memory effect (SME) of shape memory alloy (SMA) wires embedded in concrete and produce recovery and residual stress on the wires. This method is more convenient than the previous electronic resistance heating. For the purpose, this study prepares NiTiNb SMA wires that show appropriate temperature window for the use of heat of hydration. Axial compressive tests of concrete cylinders confined by the NiTiNb SMA wire jackets are used to prove that the utilization of heat of hydration is valid to generate recovery and residual stress in the SMA wires. The confined cylinders show increased peak strengths and much larger failure strains than those of the plain concrete. The general behavior of the SMA wire-confined specimens in this study is similar to that of specimens heated by electronic heating jacket. Also, this study explains two examples for the utilization of heat of hydration for the SME in reinforced concrete beams and columns.
Covered Today, Sick Tomorrow? Trends and Correlates of Children’s Health Insurance Instability
Authors: Hill Heather D. , Shaefer H. Luke
Published: September 2011

Many children with health insurance will experience gaps in coverage over time, potentially reducing their access to and use of preventive health care services. This article uses the Survey of Income and Program Participation to examine how the stability of children’s health insurance changed between 1990 and 2005 and to identify dynamic aspects of family life associated with transitions in coverage. Children’s health insurance instability has increased since the early 1990s, due to greater movement between insured and uninsured states and between private and public insurance coverage. Changes in the employment and marital status of the family head are highly associated with an increased risk of a child losing and gaining public and private coverage, largely in hypothesized directions. The exception is that marital dissolution and job loss are associated with an increased probability of a child losing public insurance, despite there being no clear policy explanation for such a relationship.
Sex Differences in Pain Responses at Maturity Following Neonatal Repeated Minor Pain Exposure in Rats
Authors: Page Gayle G. , Hayat Matthew J. , Kozachik Sharon L.
Published: September 2011

There is mounting evidence of long-lasting changes in pain sensitivity in school-age children who were cared for in a neonatal intensive care unit. Such care involves multiple pain exposures, 70% of which are accounted for by heel lance to monitor physiological well-being. The authors sought to model the repeated brief pain resulting from heel lance by administering repeated paw needle stick to neonatal rat pups. Repeated needle stick during the first 8 days of life was sex-specific in altering responses to mechanical and inflammatory stimuli, but not to a thermal stimulus, at maturity. Specifically, neonatal paw needle stick males exhibited significantly greater mechanical sensitivity in response to von Frey hair testing, whereas neonatal paw needle stick females exhibited significantly greater pain behavior scores following hindpaw formalin injection. This is the first study to show such sex-dependent changes in pain responsiveness at maturity in animals having experienced repeated neonatal needle stick pain. These findings support existing evidence that there are long-term sensory sequelae following neonatal pain experiences in rats and further suggest that there are sex-linked differences in the nature of the consequences. If these relationships hold in humans, these findings suggest that even mild painful insults early in life are not without sensory consequences.
Communication and culture: Predictors of treatment adherence among Mexican immigrant patients
Authors: Villagran Melinda , Hajek Christopher , Zhao Xiaoquan , Peterson Emily , Wittenberg-Lyles Elaine
Published: September 2011

This study examined communication and culture in clinicians’ interactions with Mexican immigrants in Texas. Specifically, we explore the unique interplay among levels of acculturation, beliefs about culturally-based medical practices, perceptions of medical encounters, and the likelihood of adherence to medical therapy recommendations from US providers. Results suggest that: (a) acculturation predicts perceptions of out-group membership in the patient-provider interaction; (b) beliefs about complementary and alternative medicine are negatively related to medical adherence; (c) quality of care mediates the relationship between physician accommodation and medical adherence; and (d) there exists a complex relationship between out-group perceptions and adherence.
Characterization of Bacteria and Fungi Bioaerosol in the Indoor Air of selected Primary Schools in Malaysia
Authors: Hussin Nor Husna Mat , Sann Lye Munn , Shamsudin Mariana Nor , Hashim Zailina
Published: September 2011

This study reports the types and concentrations of bacterial and fungal bioaerosols found in five randomly selected primary schools in Malaysia. Normal flora bacteria was the most frequently isolated bacteria including Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas spp. and Bacillus spp. Terribacillus spp. found in this study had never been reported before. The most frequently isolated fungal genera were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Rhizopus and Zygomycetes. The average concentration of bacteria in indoor and outdoor air were 1025 ± 612 CFU/m3 and 1473 ± 1261 CFU/m3, respectively, while the average concentration of fungal bioaerosol in indoor and outdoor air were 292 ± 83 CFU/m3 and 401 ± 235 CFU/m3, respectively. The percentages of bacterial and fungal samples that were within the American Conference of Industrial Hygenists (ACGIH) recommended levels were 44% and 33.8%, respectively. The ratio of indoor to outdoor fungi concentration was below 1.0, suggesting minimal indoor generative source for fungal bioaerosols. However, the ratio of indoor to outdoor bacteria concentration was approaching 1.0, suggesting the presence of potential internal generative source and inadequate ventilation. Building occupants might be one of the potential sources of bacteria in the indoor air as the bacteria concentrations without occupants were significantly lower than with occupants (p < 0.05).
Transient Characteristics of VOCs Removal by an Air Cleaner in Association with a Humidifier Combined with Different Ventilation Strategies in an Office
Authors: Wang Ye , Deng Baoqing , Kim Chang Nyung
Published: September 2011

This paper investigated the effects of an air cleaner and ventilation strategies on the removal of VOCs in an office in association with the influence of moisture on the air cleaner performance. Here, a transient three dimensional air flow field and concentration distribution of VOCs emitted from a desk were considered. Commercial software FLUENT 6 was utilised to solve the continuity and momentum equations together with the low Reynolds number k-ε turbulence model. Numerical results showed that both the moisture and ventilation strategies have notable impacts on the VOCs concentration distribution. Cases under stronger ventilation take less time for the VOCs concentration to reach the steady state. But, in the cases with the function of the air cleaner, VOCs could be removed more considerably. The combination of the use of the air cleaner and enhanced ventilation strategies could yield more desirable indoor air quality within a relatively short time. The results showed that moisture can have a slight effect on the performance of the air cleaner, but lower moisture would be helpful to the effectiveness of the air cleaner. Thus, based on this work, suitable concentrations of indoor moisture, together with appropriate ventilation strategies have been recommended for control of indoor air quality.
Who gets married in Australia?
Authors: Hewitt Belinda , Baxter Janeen
Published: September 2011

Although there is broad agreement that marriage patterns have changed there is little understanding of the individual level factors associated with these changes. We investigate this question by examining the associations between a range of economic and social characteristics and the transition into first marriage. We use panel data from the first six waves of the Households, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey (2001–6) to run a mixed effect logit model examining the economic and social determinants of first marriage. Our baseline sample comprised 1,565 men and 1,391 women. We find broad support for a financial expectations explanation where marriage is delayed until financial security is obtained. But there is also evidence that normative factors are important.
Journalistic practice in risk and crisis situations: Significant examples from Spain
Authors: Sorribes Carles Pont , Rovira Sergi Cortiñas
Published: September 2011

In a democratic society, the media are central to the communication of risks and uncertainties to the public. This article presents 10 proposals for improving media coverage in social risk situations. The article focuses on the production logic of the media and its consequences for society. The proposals and the conclusions of this research are supported by an analysis of three Spanish cases: the risk implied by the Tarragona chemical complex (one of the biggest in Europe); the terrorist attacks on 11 March 2004 in Madrid; and the Carmel tunnel disaster in Barcelona on January 2005. The authors are participating in a research project on public perception of risk funded by the Spanish Education Ministry on public perception of risk (2004–2007 and 2007–2010).
Advocacy in the tail: Exploring the implications of ‘climategate’ for science journalism and public debate in the digital age
Authors: Holliman Richard
Published: September 2011

This article explores the evolving practices of science journalism and public debate in the digital age. The vehicle for this study is the release of digitally stored email correspondence, data and documents from the Climatic Research Unit at the University of East Anglia in the UK in the weeks immediately prior to the United Nations Copenhagen Summit (COP-15) in December 2009. Described using the journalistic shorthand of ‘climategate’, and initially promoted through socio-technical networks of bloggers, this episode became a global news story and the subject of several formal reviews. ‘Climategate’ illustrates that media-literate critics of anthropogenic explanations of climate change used digital tools to support their cause, making visible selected, newsworthy aspects of scientific information and the practices of scientists. In conclusion, I argue that ‘climategate’ may have profound implications for the production and distribution of science news, and how climate science is represented and debated in the digitally mediated public sphere.
A growth medium for the message: Online science journalism affordances for exploring public discourse of science and ethics
Authors: Laslo Esther , Baram-Tsabari Ayelet , Lewenstein Bruce V.
Published: September 2011

Little attention has been paid to how new media foster public discussion of science-related issues. In this exploratory study, we examine discussions generated by articles on the most popular daily news website in Israel. All articles dealt with research studies that involved animal experimentation, a topic often linked to deep ethical conflicts. Based on analysis of 10 articles and more than 600 reader comments, we found that topics in both science and ethics are initiated both by the original article and in the linked discussion threads. The most fruitful topics (measured by number of comments) were initiated in the discussion threads, not in the articles themselves. We suggest that discourse in new media can be understood by thinking of the audience as a ‘growth medium’ in which seeds planted by individual stories can grow (through the affordances of new media) into both knowledge of the sort imagined by the story writers and new branches nurtured by the community itself.
Our Zoo To You: The link between zoo animals in the classroom and science and literacy concepts in first-grade journal writing
Authors: Wilson Kathleen , Trainin Guy , Laughridge Virginia , Brooks David , Wickless Mimi
Published: September 2011

This study examined first-grade students’ journal writing to determine how placing live zoo animals in classrooms for science education links to students’ emergent and early writing. Students were asked to write journal entries during the daily language arts period. Although no direct instruction in informational text writing was offered, teachers suggested that journal writing about the current science topic or the live animal was a possible topic. We found that students in classrooms with zoo animals from the Our Zoo To You project wrote significantly longer and more coherent texts about zoo animals when compared with students who learned about the animals in more traditional ways. Students in Zoo classrooms included significantly more science concepts and vocabulary in their writing. Unexpectedly, using directive writing prompts enhanced texts in classrooms without zoo animals but actually hindered both the quality and quantity of writing in Zoo classrooms.
Using popular culture print to increase emergent literacy skills in one high-poverty urban school district
Authors: Vera Debbie
Published: September 2011

This study has focused on using the text associated with popular culture print to teach early literacy skills to pre-kindergarten students. This study examined whether explicitly using popular culture print to teach alphabet knowledge and print concepts increased the achievement of these skills. Data revealed an increase in the mean rank of the experimental group on the post-test of alphabet knowledge. Also, a statistically significant difference appeared to exist between the control and experimental groups’ means on the knowledge of print concepts. At the end of the popular culture print intervention, there was a statistically significant difference between the group in which the children participated (experimental or control) and their early literacy skills of alphabet knowledge and print concepts.
The relationship between children’s spontaneous utterances during joint bookreading and their retellings
Authors: Kim Young-Suk , Kang Jennifer Y. , Pan Barbara Alexander
Published: September 2011

This study examined relationships between the spontaneous utterances of pre-kindergarteners (mean age = 5 years and 1 month) from low-income families during joint bookreading and their story retelling skills. Parent—child joint bookreading sessions (N = 62 dyads) and child story retelling sessions (N = 46) were videotaped. Results showed that children made more frequent spontaneous utterances related to interpretation of story than event-related and evaluative utterances. In addition, children who produced more frequent spontaneous utterances during joint bookreading tended to produce higher-quality story retelling. Children who produced more frequent spontaneous utterances about interpretation of the story and spontaneous repetition of maternal utterances tended to include more story events and to use more sophisticated language in their story retelling. These findings suggest that children’s propensity for spontaneous verbal participation during joint bookreading may have a direct relationship with their retelling skills.
A formative experiment to enhance teacher-child language interactions in a preschool classroom
Authors: Bradley Barbara A. , Reinking David
Published: September 2011

A formative experiment investigated how two strategies aimed at increasing the quality and quantity of language interactions could be integrated into a preschool classroom. Strategies for enriching language interactions were introduced during book sharing, semi-structured group activities, and mealtimes. Mixed methods revealed factors that enhanced, inhibited, or sometimes prevented the integration of enriching language interactions during the school day and accordingly what adaptations might be warranted. Specifically, data revealed increases in the quantity and quality of teacher—child interactions during book sharing and mealtimes, but not during semi-structured group activities. Implications are discussed for professional development, classroom practice, and how formative experiments reveal unique insights about preschool classrooms.
Visual comparison for information visualization
Authors: Gleicher Michael , Albers Danielle , Walker Rick , Jusufi Ilir , Hansen Charles D. , Roberts Jonathan C.
Published: September 2011

Data analysis often involves the comparison of complex objects. With the ever increasing amounts and complexity of data, the demand for systems to help with these comparisons is also growing. Increasingly, information visualization tools support such comparisons explicitly, beyond simply allowing a viewer to examine each object individually. In this paper, we argue that the design of information visualizations of complex objects can, and should, be studied in general, that is independently of what those objects are. As a first step in developing this general understanding of comparison, we propose a general taxonomy of visual designs for comparison that groups designs into three basic categories, which can be combined. To clarify the taxonomy and validate its completeness, we provide a survey of work in information visualization related to comparison. Although we find a great diversity of systems and approaches, we see that all designs are assembled from the building blocks of juxtaposition, superposition and explicit encodings. This initial exploration shows the power of our model, and suggests future challenges in developing a general understanding of comparative visualization and facilitating the development of more comparative visualization tools.
Technique of Recanalization of Long-Segment Flush Superior Mesenteric Artery Occlusions
Authors: Malgor Rafael D. , Oderich Gustavo S.
Published: September 2011

Purpose: To describe technical tips for recanalization of long-segment flush superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusions. Technique: Ultrasound-guided left brachial artery access was gained in 2 patients with a 7F 90-cm sheath being advanced to the supraceliac aorta. The SMA stump was visualized using a selective inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) catheterization via femoral approach. A combination of a 7F 100-cm Multipurpose (MPA) guide and a 5F 125-cm MPA catheter was utilized to provide support for selective catheterization. Subsequently, a 0.018-inch wire and catheter were advanced crossing the area of occlusion. Predilatation was performed, followed by placement of covered stent. Both patients had uncomplicated course and resolution of symptoms. Conclusion: Flush SMA occlusions are challenging lesions but may be treated by antegrade percutaneous recanalization with good results. Technical aspects that facilitate recanalization include brachial approach, use of a stiff system (sheath, guide, and catheter) and concomitant injection to facilitate visualization of the SMA stump.
Transradial Access for Renal Artery Intervention is Feasible and Safe
Authors: Alli Oluseun , Mathew Verghese , From Aaron M. , Barsness Gregory , Misra Sanjay , Gulati Rajiv
Published: September 2011

Background: Transradial access for coronary intervention is associated with reduced access complications compared with transfemoral. Transradial access for renal artery intervention has been less well studied. Safety compared with transfemoral access is undetermined. Methods and Results: We evaluated the feasibility of transradial renal intervention (n = 11 patients) and compared safety parameters with a matched group of transfemoral controls (n = 44). All transradial interventions were successful with no complications. Femoral crossover was required in one due to insufficient guide length. Compared with transfemoral, there were fewer access complications in the transradial group (0 of 11 vs 3 of 44, P = .06) but no differences in fluoroscopy time or contrast volumes (25.3 ± 14.4 vs 29.0 ± 25.1 minutes, P = .47; 83.0 ± 43.7 vs 82.6 ± 35.2 cc, P = .97). At follow-up (median 6 months), radial patency was 100%. Creatinine and systolic blood pressure had decreased (mean 1.4 ± 0.5 to 1.2 ± 0.5, P = .06; 160 ± 25 to 135 ± 17, P = .009). Conclusions: Elective transradial renal intervention is feasible and safe. Radial–renal distance is a limitation with available guides.
Very Mild Dementia and Medical Comorbidity Independently Predict Health Care Use in the Elderly
Authors: Grober Ellen , Sanders Amy , Hall Charles B. , Ehrlich Amy R. , Lipton Richard B.
Published: September 2011

Objective: To determine whether dementia status and medical burden were independent predictors of emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations in older patients from an urban geriatric practice participating in a primary care based cognitive screening program. Participants and Methods: A comprehensive chart review was conducted for 300 African American and Caucasian patients, including 46 with prevalent dementia and 28 with incident dementia using the Cumulative Illness Burden Scale. Hospital-based claims data was used to retrieve ED visits and hospital admissions for 5 years following baseline assessment. Results: Patients with dementia had a 49% higher rate of ED visits (IRR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.06, 2.09) and an 83% higher risk of death than patients without dementia (HR = 1.83; 95% CI = 3.07, 0.03). Dementia status predicted hospital admissions after adjustment for medical burden (IRR = 1.37; 95% CI = 0.99, 1.89). For each one point increase in medical burden, there was an 11% increase in ED visits (IRR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.06, 1.16), a 13% increase in hospital admissions (IRR = 1.13; 95% CI = 1.09, 1.17), and an 11% higher risk of death (HR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.17). Age did not predict utilization. Conclusion: Dementia status and medical burden were independent predictors of ED visits and death in patients with clinically diagnosed dementia followed from the early stage of disease.
Properties of epoxy nanocomposite thin films prepared by spin coating technique
Authors: Voo Richard , Mariatti M , Sim LC
Published: September 2011

Tensile and dynamic mechanical properties of thin film epoxy composites containing different types of fillers such as synthetic diamond (SD), silicon nitride, and boron nitride (BN) were investigated. The filler contents were varied between 0 and 2 vol.%. Spin coating technique was employed to produce thin film with thickness of 40–60 µm. Tensile test results show that addition of SD obviously improves the strength and Young's modulus, and increases the storage modulus ( E′) of the epoxy thin film composite. The addition of 2 vol.% SD increases the Young's modulus and tensile strength by almost two times the properties of neat epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy showed void formation and poor interfacial analysis which explains the reduced tensile strength of BN filler epoxy composites.
Attenuation of leukocyte recruitment via CXCR1/2 inhibition stops the progression of PAH in mice with genetic ablation of endothelial BMPR-II
Authors: Burton Victoria J. , Holmes Alan M. , Ciuclan Loredana I. , Robinson Alexander , Roger Jan S. , Jarai Gabor , Pearce Andrew C. , Budd David C.
Published: September 2011

Previous studies from our group have demonstrated that bone morphogenetic protein receptor-II (BMPR-II), expressed on pulmonary artery endothelial cells, imparts profound anti-inflammatory effects by regulating the release of proinflammatory cytokines and promoting barrier function by suppressing the transmigration of leukocytes into the pulmonary vessel wall. Here we demonstrate that, in mice with endothelial-specific loss of BMPR-II expression (L1Cre(+);Bmpr2f/f), reduction in barrier function and the resultant pulmonary hypertension observed in vivo are the result of increased leukocyte recruitment through increased CXCR1/2 signaling. Loss of endothelial expressed BMPR-II leads to elevated plasma levels of a wide range of soluble mediators important in regulating leukocyte migration and extravasation, including the CXCR1/2 ligand, KC. Treatment of L1Cre(+);Bmpr2f/f mice with the CXCR1/2 antagonist SCH527123 inhibits leukocyte transmigration into lung and subsequently reverses the pulmonary hypertension. Our data have uncovered a previously unrecognized regulatory function of BMPR-II, which acts to regulate the expression of CXCR2 on endothelial cells, suggesting that increased CXCR2 signaling may also be a feature of the human pathology and that CXCR1/2 pathway antagonists may represent a novel therapeutic approach for treating pulmonary hypertension because of defects in BMPR-II expression.
Tumor cell-selective apoptosis induction through targeting of KV10.1 via bifunctional TRAIL antibody
Authors: Hartung Franziska , Stühmer Walter , Pardo Luis A
Published: September 2011

Background

The search for strategies to target ion channels for therapeutic applications has become of increasing interest. Especially, the potassium channel KV10.1 (Ether-á-go-go) is attractive as target since this surface protein is virtually not detected in normal tissue outside the central nervous system, but is expressed in approximately 70% of tumors from different origins.

Methods

We designed a single-chain antibody against an extracellular region of KV10.1 (scFv62) and fused it to the human soluble TRAIL. The KV10.1-specific scFv62 antibody -TRAIL fusion protein was expressed in CHO-K1 cells, purified by chromatography and tested for biological activity.

Results

Prostate cancer cells, either positive or negative for KV10.1 were treated with the purified construct. After sensitization with cytotoxic drugs, scFv62-TRAIL induced apoptosis only in KV10.1-positive cancer cells, but not in non-tumor cells, nor in tumor cells lacking KV10.1 expression. In co-cultures with KV10.1-positive cancer cells the fusion protein also induced apoptosis in bystander KV10.1-negative cancer cells, while normal prostate epithelial cells were not affected when present as bystander.

Conclusions

KV10.1 represents a novel therapeutic target for cancer. We could design a strategy that selectively kills tumor cells based on a KV10.1-specific antibody.
Chikungunya triggers an autophagic process which promotes viral replication
Authors: Krejbich-Trotot Pascale , Gay Bernard , Li-Pat-Yuen Ghislaine , Hoarau Jean-Jacques , Jaffar-Bandjee Marie-Christine , Briant Laurence , Gasque Philippe , Denizot Mélanie
Published: September 2011

Background

Chikungunya Virus (ChikV) surprised by a massive re-emerging outbreak in Indian Ocean in 2006, reaching Europe in 2007 and exhibited exceptional severe physiopathology in infants and elderly patients. In this context, it is important to analyze the innate immune host responses triggered against ChikV. Autophagy has been shown to be an important component of the innate immune response and is involved in host defense elimination of different pathogens. However, the autophagic process was recently observed to be hijacked by virus for their own replication. Here we provide the first evidence that hallmarks of autophagy are specifically found in HEK.293 infected cells and are involved in ChikV replication.

Methods

To test the capacity of ChikV to mobilize the autophagic machinery, we performed fluorescence microscopy experiments on HEK.GFP.LC3 stable cells, and followed the LC3 distribution during the time course of ChikV infection. To confirm this, we performed electron microscopy on HEK.293 infected cells. To test the effect of ChikV-induced-autophagy on viral replication, we blocked the autophagic process, either by pharmacological (3-MA) or genetic inhibition (siRNA against the transcript of Beclin 1, an autophagic protein), and analyzed the percentage of infected cells and the viral RNA load released in the supernatant. Moreover, the effect of induction of autophagy by Rapamycin on viral replication was tested.

Results

The increasing number of GFP-LC3 positive cells with a punctate staining together with the enhanced number of GFP-LC3 dots per cell showed that ChikV triggered an autophagic process in HEK.293 infected cells. Those results were confirmed by electron microscopy analysis since numerous membrane-bound vacuoles characteristic of autophagosomes were observed in infected cells. Moreover, we found that inhibition of autophagy, either by biochemical reagent and RNA interference, dramatically decreases ChikV replication.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results suggest that autophagy may play a promoting role in ChikV replication. Investigating in details the relationship between autophagy and viral replication will greatly improve our knowledge of the pathogenesis of ChikV and provide insight for the design of candidate antiviral therapeutics.