bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dor dental nos últimos 3 meses em adolescentes e Estratégia Saúde da Família: a comparação entre duas áreas com abordagens diferentes de atenção em saúde bucal
Authors: Carvalho Jefferson Calixto , Rebelo Maria Augusta Bessa , Vettore Mario Vianna
Published: November 2011

O estudo objetivou comparar a prevalência e a intensidade da dor dental nos últimos 3 meses em adolescentes moradores de duas áreas de abrangência da Estratégia Saúde da Família com diferentes abordagens de atenção em saúde bucal. Um estudo transversal foi realizado com 300 adolescentes de 12 a 14 anos, selecionados em escolas públicas, na cidade de Manaus, Brasil. Adolescentes de uma área com Equipe de Saúde Bucal, onde são realizadas ações de promoção de saúde (Grupo I, N=150), foram comparados com moradores de uma área onde somente é oferecido (Grupo II, N=150) tratamento odontológico. Características demográficas e socioeconômicas foram coletadas, bem como a prevalência e a intensidade de dor dental nos últimos 3 meses, empregando-se uma escala do tipo Likert. A média de idade dos participantes foi de 12,9 ± 0,8 anos, sendo 46,7% meninos. A prevalência de dor dental nos últimos 3 meses foi de 33,7%, e não diferiu entre os Grupos I e II (P>0,05). A intensidade de dor dental média a alta, nos últimos 3 meses, foi associada com o Grupo II (OR: 2,11 [IC95%=1,17-3,81]) após ajuste para covariáveis. Adolescentes moradores da área onde somente tratamento odontológico é oferecido foram mais propensos à dor dental de maior intensa em relação àqueles moradores da área onde predominam ações de promoção de saúde.
Measuring the Impact of Anti-SLAPP Legislation on Monitoring and Enforcement
Authors: Ashenmiller Bevin , Norman Catherine Shelley
Published: November 2011

We examine changes in environmental monitoring and enforcement activity in the presence of state legislation prohibiting Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (anti-SLAPP laws). Using data on the Clean Air Act from the Environmental Protection Agency’s ECHO database, we find evidence that state inspections increase by almost 50% after a state passes anti-SLAPP legislation. In addition, we find strong evidence that the ratio of findings of noncompliance to inspections more than doubles in the presence of anti-SLAPP legislation.
Dialysate Sodium Concentration and the Association with Interdialytic Weight Gain, Hospitalization, and Mortality
Authors: Hecking Manfred , Karaboyas Angelo , Saran Rajiv , Sen Ananda , Inaba Masaaki , Rayner Hugh , Hörl Walter H. , Pisoni Ronald L. , Robinson Bruce M. , Sunder-Plassmann Gere , Port Friedrich K.
Published: November 2011

Background and objectives

Recommendations to decrease the dialysate sodium (DNa) prescription demand analyses of patient outcomes. We analyzed morbidity and mortality at various levels of DNa, simultaneously accounting for interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) and for the mortality risk associated with lower predialysis serum sodium (SNa) levels.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We used multiply-adjusted linear mixed models to evaluate the magnitude of IDWG and Cox proportional hazards models to assess hospitalizations and deaths in 29,593 patients from the Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study with baseline DNa and SNa as predictors, categorized according to lowest to highest levels.

Results

IDWG increased with higher DNa across all SNa categories, by 0.17% of body weight per 2 mEq/L higher DNa; however, higher DNa was not associated with higher mortality in a fully adjusted model (also adjusted for SNa; hazard ratio [HR]=0.98 per 2 mEq/L higher DNa, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95–1.02). Instead, higher DNa was associated with lower hospitalization risk (HR=0.97 per 2 mEq/L higher DNa, 95% CI 0.95–1.00, P=0.04). Additional adjustments for IDWG did not change these results. In sensitivity analyses restricted to study facilities, in which 90%–100% of patients have the same DNa (56%), the adjusted HR for mortality was 0.88 per 2 mEq/L higher DNa (95% CI 0.83–0.94). These analyses represented a pseudo-randomized experiment in which the association between DNa and mortality is unlikely to have been confounded by indication.

Conclusions

In the absence of randomized prospective studies, the benefit of reducing IDWG by decreasing DNa prescriptions should be carefully weighed against an increased risk for adverse outcomes.
Early Skeletal and Biochemical Alterations in Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wesseling-Perry Katherine , Pereira Renata C. , Tseng Chi-Hong , Elashoff Robert , Zaritsky Joshua J. , Yadin Ora , Sahney Shobha , Gales Barbara , Jüppner Harald , Salusky Isidro B.
Published: November 2011

Background and objectives

The relationship between parathyroid hormone, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), and indices of bone turnover and mineralization in children with early CKD is unknown; thus, this study characterizes the features of renal osteodystrophy and their relationship to biochemical markers of mineral metabolism.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Fifty-two patients 2–21 years of age with predialysis CKD underwent tetracycline-labeled bone biopsy. Anthropomorphic measurements and biochemical values were obtained at the time of biopsy.

Results

Serum phosphorus levels were increased in 4% of patients with stage 3 CKD and 43% of those with stage 4/5 CKD. Parathyroid hormone concentrations were elevated in 36% of patients with stage 2, 71% with stage 3, and 93% with stage 4/5 CKD, whereas FGF-23 values were elevated in 81% of all patients, regardless of CKD stage. Bone turnover was normal in all patients with stage 2, but was increased in 13% with stage 3 and 29% with stage 4/5 CKD. Defective mineralization was present in 29% of patients with stage 2, 42% with stage 3, and 79% with stage 4/5 CKD. Defective skeletal mineralization was associated with lower serum calcium levels and increased parathyroid hormone concentrations.

Conclusions

Elevated circulating FGF-23 levels and defects in skeletal mineralization early in the course of CKD suggest that factors other than the traditional markers of mineral deficiency play a crucial role in the development of renal bone disease.
Synthesis of quinoline attached-furan-2(3H)-ones having anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties with reduced gastro-intestinal toxicity and lipid peroxidation
Authors: Alam Mohammad , Sarkar Priya , Husain Asif , Marella Akranth , Zaman M.S. , Akhter Mymoona , Shaharyar M. , Alam Ozair , Azam Faizul
Published: November 2011

A series of 3-[2-chloroquinolin-3-yl)methylene]-5-aryl-furan-2(3H)-ones
{3(a-p)} were synthesized. The required 3-(substitutedbenzoyl) propionic
acids {2(a-d)} were prepared under Friedal Craft acylation reaction
conditions. The substituted 2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehydes {1(a-d)} were
synthesized by reaction of substitutedphenylethanone-oxime with phosphorus
oxychloride in presence of dimethyl formamide using the Vilsmeir Haack
reaction method. These compounds were screened for their anti-inflammatory
and antibacterial activities along with their ulcerogenic and lipid
peroxidation potentials. The compounds that showed significant
anti-inflammatory activity were further screened for their analgesic
activity. The compounds were less toxic in terms of ulcerogenicity as
compared to a standard, which was also supported by lipid peroxidation
studies. The antibacterial activities were performed against Staphylococcus
aureus and Escherichia coli. Compounds 3f, 3n and 3o showed significant
activity against both S. aureus and E. coli having an MIC value of 6.25?g
mL-1.
‘Transform Your Child's Behaviour Now’: Parent Education as Self-Help Culture and Lifelong Learning
Authors: Widding Ulrika
Published: November 2011

Parents in the Western world today are often said to feel unsure and inadequate and as a consequence there are a plethora of self-help products on the market as well as parent education programmes. This article explores the kinds of research questions that are raised by this state of affairs. The discussion is mainly based on existing studies of self-help culture as well as other studies of parents and families. One argument is that parent education, which is aimed at supporting parents to improve their parenting skills, is part of a governing strategy in a learning society. The Swedish government has an ongoing investment in parent education. This community support for parents is used as a reference point to study the ways in which parents are governed and how discourses on what constitutes a good parent or child at a government level are transformed into parent education advice and programmes. Other issues consider the importance of studies regarding how parents interpret these discourses and focus on the processes of inclusion and exclusion and the ways that some parents and children become problematic and hard to reach with regard to, for example, issues around gender, social class and ethnicity.
Leadership and Organizational Culture: Lessons Learned from Arthur Andersen
Authors: Kelly Patrick T. , Earley Christine E.
Published: November 2011

ABSTRACT: Leader actions are considered by many to be one of the major influences on an organization's culture. This paper examines actions taken by leaders at Arthur Andersen, driven by the emphasis on profit growth over audit proficiency beginning in the 1980s, that were not consistent with certain cultural features fundamental to the firm's value system in its early years. We examine the actions of Andersen's leaders in the context of Schein's (2004) theories of organizational culture, and conclude actions of the firm's leaders appear to have adversely affected the organizational culture and contributed to Andersen's eventual demise. The lessons learned from Arthur Andersen can benefit others in the profession, along with students who will be entering the profession and educators who are preparing them for future challenges.
Whistleblowing in Public Accounting: Influence of Identity Disclosure, Situational Context, and Personal Characteristics
Authors: Curtis Mary B. , Taylor Eileen Z.
Published: November 2011

ABSTRACT: Public accounting firms rely on effective reporting of unethical behavior (whistleblowing) as a form of corporate governance. This study presents results from a survey of 122 in-charge level auditors, who indicated their likelihood of internal whistleblowing under three forms of identity disclosure for three independent scenarios. Reporting likelihood was significantly lower under a disclosed identity format, while there was no significant difference in likelihood between anonymous and protected identity formats. Contrasts reveal a significantly higher likelihood of reporting audit standards violations than a professional code violation. Likelihood was also positively related to measures of trust that the firm would investigate and act on the reported incident. Personal characteristics (i.e., locus of control and ethical style) were significant antecedents to whistleblowing intentions. Findings should aid public accounting firms and organizational governance researchers in their understanding of the determinants of auditors' whistleblowing propensity.
Nonaudit Services and Independence in Appearance: Decision Context Matters
Authors: Church Bryan K. , Zhang Ping
Published: November 2011

This paper reports the results of two experiments designed to examine users' assessment of the provision of nonaudit services (NAS) on auditor independence. By design, each experiment includes a different decision context. In the first experiment, users witness a large decline in asset value and decide whether to sue the auditor in an effort to recoup losses (as often occurs with accounting scandals). In the second experiment, users assess asset value, which offers a more mundane context. We contend that decision context influences users' motives, such that the auditor's provision of NAS is interpreted opportunistically. Indeed, we find that decision context dramatically affects users' perceptions. Our findings have implications for regulators, who face the daunting challenge of mandating rules/laws to ensure auditor independence. The task becomes more difficult when users' assessment of auditor independence is malleable, varying across decision contexts.
Organizational Error Climate and Auditors' Predispositions toward Handling Errors
Authors: Gronewold Ulfert , Donle Michaela
Published: November 2011

Handling their own errors effectively is important for auditors to assure audit quality. Similarly, how auditors deal with their clients' errors may affect clients' cooperativeness, which is a prerequisite for conducting audits effectively and efficiently. Auditors' predispositions will likely influence how they actually approach errors. We introduce the constructs of (and develop measures for) the error climate of audit organizations and auditors' predispositions toward handling their own errors and client errors and relate them in a theoretical model. Empirical results from a sample of 284 external, internal, and public sector auditors support that an audit organization's error climate positively influences auditors' predisposition toward handling their own errors, which, in turn, positively influences their predisposition toward handling client errors. These results imply that an appropriately shaped error climate may serve as a “soft” management control mechanism by fostering predispositions toward functional error handling behaviors. We discuss implications for research and practice.

Data Availability: Contact the first author.
The Effects of Prior Auditor Involvement and Client Pressure on Proposed Audit Adjustments
Authors: Hatfield Richard C. , Jackson Scott B. , Vandervelde Scott D.
Published: November 2011

This study draws upon research on escalation of commitment, motivated reasoning, and prior involvement to formulate hypotheses about the effects of prior auditor involvement and client pressure on the magnitude of proposed audit adjustments. Consistent with theory, our experimental results reveal that auditors who have no involvement in waiving a prior period audit adjustment propose current period audit adjustments that are significantly larger than auditors who have involvement in waiving a prior period audit adjustment. Further, we find that client pressure significantly reduces the magnitude of proposed audit adjustments, although the effect of client pressure does not vary across levels of prior involvement. This suggests that client pressure continues to exert a meaningful influence on auditor judgments in the post-SOX environment.
Reconciling Archival and Experimental Research: Does Internal Audit Contribution Affect the External Audit Fee?
Authors: Prawitt Douglas F. , Sharp Nathan Y. , Wood David A.
Published: November 2011

Consistent with guidelines from external auditing standards, experimental and survey research suggests that an internal audit function (IAF) can contribute in ways that lead to decreased external audit fees; however, research using archival methodologies generally finds either no relation or a positive relation between proxies for IAF contribution and external audit fees. In this paper, we provide new evidence using a unique and previously unavailable data set to develop archival proxies of internal audit contribution. We find that archival proxies for the contribution of internal audit based on Statement of Audited Standards (SAS) No. 65 are associated with lower unexpected external audit fees. We show that proxies used in prior archival studies are limited in their ability to capture the IAF's potential contribution to external auditing, and suggest that the lack of high-quality proxies could help explain the divergent findings of experimental and survey-based studies in relation to archival studies in this area. In addition, our results suggest that fee reductions are associated with the direct assistance of, but not with reliance on, work previously performed by the internal auditor. Overall, our results provide evidence consistent with external auditing standards and with results from prior experimental and survey studies suggesting that IAFs can indeed contribute in ways that lead to lower external audit fees.

Data Availability: Contact the authors. Data provided by the Institute of Internal Auditors are subject to restrictions.
Auditors' Levels of Dispositional Need for Closure and Effects on Hypothesis Generation and Confidence
Authors: Bailey Charles D. , Daily Cynthia M. , Phillips Thomas J.
Published: November 2011

Dispositional Need for Closure (DNFC; Webster and Kruglanski 1994) concerns the propensity to seek and process information before reaching a judgment. Psychology researchers have demonstrated consistent effects on hypothesis generation and confidence in lay-judgment settings. Although psychology literature, in a validation sample, identifies accounting students as a group high in DNFC, we find professional auditors significantly lower in DNFC than reported in their sample of accounting students, and progressively lower in DNFC at higher professional ranks. Yet, substantial variance in this critical characteristic persists even at higher ranks, to potentially affect judgment. Since findings concerning lay decision makers are not always applicable to accounting professionals, we investigate the effects of DNFC on the hypothesis generation and confidence of experienced auditors. Auditors higher in DNFC generate fewer, lower-quality hypotheses, yet express greater confidence in their hypothesis set. Broader implications are discussed.
Does Wrongdoer Reputation Matter? Impact of Auditor-Wrongdoer Performance and Likeability Reputations on Fellow Auditors' Intention to Take Action and Choice of Reporting Outlet
Authors: Robertson Jesse C. , Stefaniak Chad M. , Curtis Mary B.
Published: November 2011

We investigate the effects of auditor-wrongdoer reputations for performance and likeability on fellow auditors' intentions to take action in response to a questionable audit act. We also use this context to explore auditor selection of reporting outlets, when they do choose to take action. In an experiment with 181 auditors, main effects suggest that likeability reputation is a significant determinant of intention to take action, while performance reputation is marginally significant. As expected, interaction results indicate that auditors have the greatest intention to take action against less likeable, poor performers. Contrary to expectations, intention to take action against a more likeable, good performer is no lower than the mixed conditions. Thus, the influence of the two dimensions of reputation is complex. Additionally, we find auditors are more likely to whistle-blow internally than externally, and through non-anonymous outlets than anonymous outlets. Our contributions include exploring the impact of reputation on the actions of third parties, and advancing prior literature by considering the influence of wrongdoer attributes on reporting decisions and auditors' reporting channel preferences.

Data Availability: Data are available from the first author upon request.
Audit Quality in the Post-SOX Audit Environment: What Your Auditing Students Must Know about the PCAOB Inspection Process
Authors: Riley Richard R. , Jenkins J. Gregory , Roush Pamela Y. , Thibodeau Jay C.
Published: November 2011

SUMMARY: At the American Accounting Association’s (AAA) Auditing Section Midyear Meeting in January 2007, the Education Committee organized a panel to discuss the educational issues that have surfaced as a result of the PCAOB inspection process. The discussion focused on changes that have occurred in the audit environment, particularly concerning audit documentation and the audit process, as a result of the PCAOB auditing standards and feedback to the firms from the PCAOB inspection process. The goal was to provide a forum for panelists to interact with educators, to develop suggestions to help prepare students for their careers in the post-Sarbanes-Oxley auditing environment. In this paper, we first provide an overview of the PCAOB inspection process and then provide a report on the actual panel discussion, which included a spirited question-and-answer session with the audience. We also incorporate the results of follow-up interviews with the three panelists that occurred in April 2008. Finally, we provide case material and other resources to assist professors as they incorporate the panelists’ suggestions related to PCAOB inspection issues in the classroom.
The Courts' Role as a Backstop in the Battle against Tax Complexity
Authors: Morris Donald , Qiao Pingjing
Published: November 2011

Though tax complexity is a frequent topic of debate, the difficulty of defining or measuring what is meant by complexity is a stumbling block to tax simplification. Most measures of tax complexity are indirect or anecdotal. One dimension of tax complexity is addressed by the courts at an operational level—the final decision on the meaning of key words in a tax controversy. Faced with a word whose meaning is unfamiliar, unclear, or ambiguous, but critical to a tax dispute, the result may be a fork in the road. Is the term defined by statute, is it a term of art, or is it an ordinary English word? After exploring the courts' stated reliance on dictionaries in appropriate circumstances, the paper presents over 200 examples drawn from tax case law. Based on the courts' apparently increasing role as final arbiter of meaning in tax disputes, we suggest a general approach for slowing the pace of tax complexity.
Vacation Homes and Residential Interest Deductions: An Outdated Statute and Conflicting Interpretations Create Confusion (and Planning Opportunities)
Authors: Everett John O. , Duncan William A. , Peffley Wendy
Published: November 2011

Tax benefits have been the key in making vacation homes affordable for many taxpayers. In some cases these benefits have been augmented by an inconsistency in allocation methods used to determine allowable expenses for vacation homes under Section 280A. The U.S. Tax Court created this inconsistency years ago with its decision in Bolton, 77 TC 104 (1981), where the Court approved an allocation method that was contrary to IRS guidance. Although most analyses since this decision have focused on how the Bolton decision permits a taxpayer to increase total deductions related to a rental property when the Section 280A limits apply, there is another aspect to the allocation controversy that has not received as much attention. Specifically, the possible loss of the personal deduction for residential interest when the property does not qualify as a second home may create unexpected tax consequences, where the best tax-planning advice may be to encourage the taxpayer to use the vacation home for more personal days.

This article provides a brief review of the basic Sec. 280A rules for vacation rental homes and closely examines the tax effects of conflicting statutory, administrative, and judicial guidance on the treatment of interest and taxes related to such a property. As demonstrated by three scenarios, the inconsistent treatments may provide an opportunity for owners of vacation homes to “game” the system for maximum tax benefit near the end of a tax year. As a consequence of Congress's failure to update Sec. 280A following the 1986 changes on interest deductions, such gaming of the system may be accomplished without confronting change of accounting method issues.
Tenure Buyouts: The Case for Capital Gains Treatment
Authors: Everett John O. , Raabe William A. , Gentile Julie
Published: November 2011

In the increasingly common case where a faculty member accepts a buyout of tenure rights toward the end of his or her career, an interesting tax question arises. Does the relinquishment of tenure involve a “sale or exchange” of a capital asset, qualifying for long-term capital gains treatment? Or should the transaction be viewed as one generating ordinary income to “replace” normal compensation that would otherwise be received in the future?

Tax Court dicta indicate that the compensation received should be reported as ordinary gross income. But statutory and judicial law effective since the Tax Court decision support an interpretation that some portion of the benefits constitute a payment for a property right, triggering capital gain treatment, a much more taxpayer-friendly result.

An analogy to the capital gain result may be found elsewhere in the Code, suggesting the authors' position that the tenure buyout represents at least in part the payment for the exchange of an asset.
Criminal Investigations of Taxpayer Fraud
Authors: Nichols Nancy B. , Richardson Robert C.
Published: November 2011

Under the voluntary tax system in the United States, taxpayers are responsible for fully and accurately reporting and paying the amount of taxes owed. Voluntary tax compliance is reinforced through various programs including the document matching program, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) civil audits, and criminal prosecution. The Criminal Investigation (CI) division of the IRS is responsible for enforcing the criminal statutes.

This article investigates the role of CI in tax compliance and analyzes the results of 598 published tax crime cases from 2000 through 2004. The results indicate that CI must increase its focus on cash economy small businesses. Additional recommendations include the expansion of tax withholding to nonemployee compensation and including payments to small businesses in the document matching program to reinforce the voluntary compliance system.
Cross-Border Taxation of Employee Stock Options
Authors: Hennig Cherie J. , Wang Ningkun , Yuan Xiaoli
Published: November 2011

The complexity of the taxation of employee stock options is escalated in a cross-border context. It is important to understand multi-jurisdictional tax differences from both the employee and employer perspective in order to avoid unnecessary tax exposure and liability. The current status of the taxation of employee stock option plans in the U.S. and the People's Republic of China is used to illustrate multi-jurisdictional taxation issues. Careful, prospective tax planning can significantly reduce an employee's cross-border tax liability.
Equitable Recoupment: Is It Finally Equitable?
Authors: Mosebach Janet , Apple Jerome E. , Hanudel Stephen
Published: November 2011

ABSTRACT: There are currently no statutory remedies for the double taxation of a taxpayer or transaction, only a judicial doctrine known as equitable recoupment. Equitable recoupment can be used by either a taxpayer or the government to avoid unjust enrichment caused by enforcement of the statute of limitations. It involves a single transaction subject to two different legal theories of taxation, a claim barred by the statute of limitations, and a sufficient identity of interest between the taxpayers. Until recently, equitable recoupment could be raised in District Court and the Court of Federal Claims, but the jurisdiction of the Tax Court in such matters was uncertain. The enactment of a new tax provision in 2006 allows taxpayers to avoid having to sue for a refund and enables them to seek relief in Tax Court. This is particularly helpful for taxpayers who do not have the resources to pay a tax and then file a claim for refund, especially in light of the new enforcement efforts on the part of the IRS. This article provides a judicial history of equitable recoupment, an explanation of the recent statutory change, and a discussion of the implications for taxpayers and tax practitioners.
Molecular characterization of an h-type thioredoxin gene from grape
Authors: Japelaghi Reza , Haddad Raheem , Garoosi Ghasem-Ali
Published: November 2011

Thioredoxins (Trxs), as small ubiquitous proteins, participate in dithiol-disulfide exchange reactions. In contrast to other organisms, plants have a complex family of Trxs, which contains seven different Trx types: f, h, m, o, x, y, and z. The h-type Trx consists of multiple forms that are involved in different processes. A full-length cDNA coding for a Trx h, designated VvTrx h2, was isolated and cloned from grape (Vitis vinifera L. cv. White Seedless) berry tissue by RT-PCR technique. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed 561 nucleotides in length encoded for a protein of 114 amino acid residues. The deduced polypeptide sequence harbors a typical catalytic site, WCGPC and its calculated molecular mass and its predicted isoelectric point are 12.79 and 5.06 kDa, respectively. The threedimensional modeling and docking studies allow for the proposal that VvTrx h2 could be reduced by a NADP-thioredoxin reductase rather than glutaredoxin, as shown for its ortholog from Arabidopsis. The deduced amino acid sequence showed a high degree of similarity to Trx h isoforms from other sources. Phylogenetic studies indicated that VvTrx h2 gene is related to h-type Trx subgroup I. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed that the VvTrx h2 gene was expressed in all plant tissues at different developmental stages.
Lower Limb Functional Index: Development and Clinimetric Properties
Authors: Gabel Charles Philip , Melloh Markus , Burkett Brendan , Michener Lori A.
Published: November 2011

Background

Existing lower-limb, region-specific, patient-reported outcome measures have clinimetric limitations, including limitations in psychometric characteristics (eg, lack of internal consistency, lack of responsiveness, measurement error) and the lack of reported practical and general characteristics. A new patient-reported outcome measure, the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), was developed to address these limitations.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to overcome recognized deficiencies in existing lower-limb, region-specific, patient-reported outcome measures through: (1) development of a new lower-extremity outcome scale (ie, the LLFI) and (2) evaluation of the clinimetric properties of the LLFI using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) as a criterion measure.

Design

This was a prospective observational study.

Methods

The LLFI was developed in a 3-stage process of: (1) item generation, (2) item reduction with an expert panel, and (3) pilot field testing (n=18) for reliability, responsiveness, and sample size requirements for a larger study. The main study used a convenience sample (n=127) from 10 physical therapy clinics. Participants completed the LLFI and LEFS every 2 weeks for 6 weeks and then every 4 weeks until discharge. Data were used to assess the psychometric, practical, and general characteristics of the LLFI and the LEFS. The characteristics also were evaluated for overall performance using the Measurement of Outcome Measures and Bot clinimetric assessment scales.

Results

The LLFI and LEFS demonstrated a single-factor structure, comparable reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [2,1]=.97), scale width, and high criterion validity (Pearson r=.88, with 95% confidence interval [CI]). Clinimetric performance was higher for the LLFI compared with the LEFS on the Measurement of Outcome Measures scale (96% and 95%, respectively) and the Bot scale (100% and 83%, respectively). The LLFI, compared with the LEFS, had improved responsiveness (standardized response mean=1.75 and 1.64, respectively), minimal detectable change with 90% CI (6.6% and 8.1%, respectively), and internal consistency (α=.91 and .95, respectively), as well as readability with reduced user error and completion and scoring times.

Limitations

Limitations of the study were that only participants recruited from outpatient physical therapy clinics were included and that no specific conditions or diagnostic subgroups were investigated.

Conclusion

The LLFI demonstrated sound clinimetric properties. There was lower response error, efficient completion and scoring, and improved responsiveness and overall performance compared with the LEFS. The LLFI is suitable for assessment of lower-limb function.
Delivery of Physical Therapy in the Acute Care Setting: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Freburger Janet K. , Heatwole Shank Kendra , Knauer Stefanie R. , Montmeny Richard M.
Published: November 2011

Background

Population-based studies on physical therapy use in acute care are lacking.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine population-based, hospital discharge data from North Carolina to describe the demographic and diagnostic characteristics of individuals who receive physical therapy and, for common diagnostic subgroups, to identify factors associated with the receipt of and intensity of physical therapy use.

Design

This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study.

Methods

Hospital discharge data for 2006–2007 from the 128 acute care hospitals in the state were examined to identify the most common diagnoses that receive physical therapy and to describe the characteristics of physical therapy users. For 2 of the most common diagnoses, logistic and linear regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with the receipt and intensity of physical therapy.

Results

Of the more than 2 million people treated in acute care hospitals, 22.5% received physical therapy (mean age=66 years; 58% female). Individuals with osteoarthritis (admitted for joint replacement) and stroke were 2 of the most common patient types to receive physical therapy. Almost all individuals admitted for a joint replacement received physical therapy, with little between-hospital variation. Between-hospital variation in physical therapy use for stroke was greater. Demographic and hospital-related factors were associated with physical therapy use and physical therapy intensity for both diagnoses, after controlling for illness severity and comorbidities.

Limitations

Data from only one state were examined, and the studied variables were limited.

Conclusions

The use and intensity of physical therapy for stroke and joint replacement in acute care hospitals in North Carolina vary by clinical and nonclinical factors. Reasons behind the association of hospital characteristics and physical therapy use need further investigation.
Systematic Review of the Benefits of Physical Therapy Within a Multidisciplinary Care Approach for People With Schizophrenia
Authors: Vancampfort Davy , Probst Michel , Helvik Skjaerven Liv , Catalán-Matamoros Daniel , Lundvik-Gyllensten Amanda , Gómez-Conesa Antonia , Ijntema Rutger , De Hert Marc
Published: November 2011

Background

Although schizophrenia is the fifth leading cause of disability-adjusted life years worldwide in people aged 15 to 44 years, the clinical evidence of physical therapy as a complementary treatment remains largely unknown.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness of physical therapy for people with schizophrenia.

Data Sources

EMBASE, PsycINFO, PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and the Cochrane Library were searched from their inception until July 1, 2011, for relevant RCTs. In addition, manual search strategies were used.

Study Selection

Two reviewers independently determined study eligibility on the basis of inclusion criteria.

Data Extraction

Reviewers rated study quality and extracted information about study methods, design, intervention, and results.

Data Synthesis

Ten RCTs met all selection criteria; 6 of these studies addressed the use of aerobic and strength exercises. In 2 of these studies, yoga techniques also were investigated. Four studies addressed the use of progressive muscle relaxation. There is evidence that aerobic and strength exercises and yoga reduce psychiatric symptoms, state anxiety, and psychological distress and improve health-related quality of life, that aerobic exercise improves short-term memory, and that progressive muscle relaxation reduces state anxiety and psychological distress.

Limitations

The heterogeneity of the interventions and the small sample sizes of the included studies limit overall conclusions and highlight the need for further research.

Conclusions

Physical therapy offers added value in the multidisciplinary care of people with schizophrenia.
Ocean colour changes in the North Pacific since 1930
Authors: Wernand M. R. , van der Woerd H. J.
Published: November 2011

In this paper we present an analysis of historical ocean colour data from the North Pacific Ocean. This colour is described by the Forel-Ule colour index, a sea colour comparator scale that is composed of 21 tube colours that is routinely measured since the year 1890. The main objective of this research is to characterise colour changes of the North Pacific Ocean at a timescale of lustums. Next to the seasonal colour changes, due to the yearly cycle of biological activity, this time series between 1930 and 1999 might contain information on global changes in climate conditions. From seasonal independent analyses of the long-term variations it was found that the greenest values, with mean Forel-Ule scale, FU¯, of 4.1 were reached during the period of 1950–1954, with a second high (FU¯ = 3) in the period 1980–1984. The bluest ocean was encountered during the years 1990–1994. The data indicate that after 1955 a remarkable long bluing took place till 1980.
A review on methods used to record and analyze microfluctuations of the accommodation in the human eye
Authors: Monticone Pier Paolo , Menozzi Marino
Published: November 2011

In steady state conditions, the accommodation of the human eye presents fluctuations. These fluctuations, called microfluctuations, are described in the literature as having an amplitude of less than 1D and a frequency up to a few Hz. Since Collins’ report about microfluctuations in 1937 [1], several methods have been used to record and analyze microfluctuations. Results reported in the literature are partially in disagreement; we show how these disagreements could be due to the different methodologies used to record and analyze the accommodation signals. We classify and discuss properties of instruments used to record the microfluctuations and methods used to elaborate the resulting signals. In particular, we catalog the measuring instruments in three families, i.e. wave-front aberrometer, classical IR autorefractometer, and ultrasound; while other three families are defined for the methods of analysis: root mean square (RMS), Fourier transform (FT), short-time Fourier transform (STFT). To conclude we suggest how to validate the instrumentation with comparative experiments and which analysis method to adopt when investigating microfluctuations;in particular we suggest a new statistical approach.
Optical fibre long period grating spectral actuators utilizing ferrofluids as outclading overlayers
Authors: Konstantaki Maria , Candiani Alessandro , Pissadakis Stavros
Published: November 2011

Results are presented on the spectral tuning of optical fibre long period gratings utilizing water and oil based ferrofluids as outclading overlayers, under static magnetic field stimulus. Two approaches are adopted for modifying the ambient refractive index at the position of the long period grating. In the first approach, a water based ferrofluid is controllably translated along the length of the grating via a magnetic field. Changes as high as 7.5 nm and 6.5 dB are monitored in the wavelength and strength, respectively, of the attenuation bands of the grating. The repeatable performance of this device for repetitive forward and backward translation verifies that no ferrofluidic residue is left on the fibre, due to silanization cladding functionalisation. In the second approach, the refractive index of an oil based ferrofluidic overlayer is modified through the magneto-optical effect. For an applied static magnetic field in the order of 400 Gauss the strength of the attenuation band of the grating is modified by more than 10% while its spectral position remains unaffected. Accordingly for the implementation of the last approach, the magnetically induced refractive index changes of ferrofluids of different solution concentrations are studied by employing diffraction efficiency measurements.
Fetus in Fetu (Pre-surgical dilemma: Review of literature and a case report)
Authors: Sharma Om Prakash , Shanmugam Senthil
Published: November 2011

Fetus in fetu is an extremely rare developmental anomaly, due to disorganised embryogenesis in a diamniotic monochorionic pregnancy. Approximately 87 reports have been documented in the literature to date. We describe such an entity in two months old boy, who presented with abdominal distension and features of obstruction. Plain X ray abdomen and CT scan helped in correct pre operative diagnosis. The literature on this rare entity is reviewed, and the diagnosis and pathogenesis of the disease are discussed. Key Words: Fetus in fetu; CT scan; Teratoma; Axial skeleton; Diamniotic monochorionic twins DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3208 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 68-71
Temperature changes in the course of treatment of severe malaria patients with artemether and quinine
Authors: Osonuga Odusoga , Osonuga AA , Osonuga IO , Osonuga A
Published: November 2011

Objective: Severe malaria is a medical emergency with devastating multi-systemic effects, if not promptly treated with sensitive and safe drugs, death is imminent. Quinine and artemether are antimalarial drugs that are used in treating severe malaria. Efforts in this study were directed at comparing temperature changes in the cause of treatment of severe malaria patients with artemether and quinine in Ikenne local Government area of Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria. Material & Methods: 32 patients in the study were randomly assigned to receive either artemether or quinine under medical supervision. 16 patients were allocated into two treatment groups. Patients in the quinine treatment were given 10mg/kg body weight quinine into 5% dextrose/saline intravenously 8hourly whilst artemether group were given 1.6mg/kg body weight intramuscularly for 5days. The patients temperature were then followed up for 14days. Results: A total of 28 out of 32 patients enrolled into the study had temperature ≥ 37.5 °C at day 0. The mean fever clearance time for quinine treatment group was 46.50 ± 20.49 hours while that of artemether group was 72.0 ± 27.7 hours (p=0.006). Fever was completely resolved in both treatment group at day 14. Conclusion: Results from this study indicated that quinine relative to artemether has a faster and sustained recovery from increased in temperature. Key Words: Severe malaria; artemether; quinine; temperature DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3351 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 41-45
Impact of Lymphocyte Apoptosis in Diabetes mellitus
Authors: Arya Awadhesh K , Pokharia Deepa , Kumar Hemant , Mishra Manish , Tripathi Kamlakar
Published: November 2011

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder. It is the most common cause of blindness, kidney failure, and amputations in adults and a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. These patients are more prone to infection which shows that there is suppressed cell mediated immunity during diabetes progression. Lymphocytes play a crucial role in  maintenance of cellular & humoral immunity both and its development requires cellular selection to remove potentially auto reactive cells via apoptosis. Apoptosis of lymphocyte clones play a pivotal role in purging the body of dangerous lymphocytes to maintain the development and regulation of the immune system. Indeed, inefficient elimination of lymphocytes can contribute in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases like insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Several clinical and experimental studies have revealed that uncontrolled diabetes leads to lymphocyte death which enhances susceptibility towards infections and creates a permissive environment for bacterial growth. The aim of this article is to review the findings that the high incidence of infection in poorly  controlled diabetic states may be positively correlated with an increased proportion of apoptotic lymphocytes. Keywords: Lymphocyte; Infection; Programmed cell death; Autoantigens; Immunity   DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3516 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 1-6
Role of Urinary Tract Bacterial Infection in the Process of Bladder Carcinogenesis (Molecular and Biochemical Studies)
Authors: Ashmawey Abeer Mostafa , Mohamed Waleed S , Abdel-Salam Ibrahim M , El-Gendy Saad M , Ali Ali I , El-Aaser Abdelbaset A
Published: November 2011

Objective: This work is designed to study the possible role of chronic inflammation induced by E. coli in the urinary bladder of rats, the protective role of soybean flour, in addition to the role of oxidative and nitrosative stresses during bladder carcinogenesis. Material & Methods: This study was done on one hundred and fifty adult male albino rats (50 - 60 gm) that divided into five groups; a) Normal control group, b) Dibutyl amine and sodium nitrate treated group, c)E.Coli treated group, d) Dibutyl amine and sodium nitrate treated group plus E. coli, and e) Dibutyl amine and sodium nitrate treated group plus soy bean flour. Survival rate and histopatholgical changes during the period of treatment were recorded. Level of malondialdhyde, glutathione, catalase, hydrogen peroxide, Total anti-oxidant capacity and nitric oxide were measured. RNA extracted from bladder tissues was determined in addition to P16 level and caspase-3 expression. Results: Survival analysis showed a significant decrease (p< 0.001) in E.Coli and dibutyl amine plus sodium nitrate treated groups in comparing with the normal and other treated groups. Also, E. coli infection in the bladder tissues increases the carcinogenic ability of nitrosamine precursors, and enhances oxidative and nitrosative stresses via increasing levels of nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide and malondialdhyde. Regarding the molecular changes, extra bands have been found in E. coli and E. coli + carcinogen treated groups approximately at 16-18KD which are not present in the other groups. Conclusion: Bacterial infection of the urinary bladder may play a major additive and synergistic role in bladder carcinogenesis. Our results have also shown that soy bean flour may have a protective action during induction of urinary tumors. Key Words: Bladder carcinogenesis; E. Coli; Soybean; DBA; P16 DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3542 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 31-40
Salmonella Paratyphi A in India - Changing trends in presentation and antibiotic susceptibility
Authors: Kulkarni Sanjay V , Narayan Arun , Indumathi Vrithmani Aprameya , Rao Tejas Suresh , Kempegowda Punith
Published: November 2011

Objective: Not only has the prevalence of enteric fever due to Salmonella paratyphi A increased over the last decade, there has also been a change in common presenting symptoms and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of these organisms. Knowledge of the existing epidemiology of the disease is essential for a rational approach to treat the same. Hence the present study was done to establish the existing epidemiology of enteric fever due to Salmonella paratyphi A-their common presenting symptoms and antibiotic sensitivity pattern- at our setting. Material & Methods: This prospective study was conducted in MS Ramaiah Hospitals, Bangalore between January 2008 and December 2008. Patients admitted to the hospital with clinical suspicion of enteric fever and whose blood culture grew paratyphi A were included in the study. Common presenting symptoms and signs were recorded in these patients and the sensitivity patterns of the causative organisms were studied. The difference in their response to Ciprofloxacin and Ceftriaxone was studied. The analysis was done using the statistical software package-SPSS Version 16. The difference in the defervescence period was calculated by 2-way Independent two-sample t-test. Results: A total 32 patients were included in the study. Fever and hepatomegaly were the most common symptom and sign among the study subjects. All isolates were susceptible to commonly used antibiotics except for Nalidixic acid. The mean defervescence period was shorter in patients treated with Ceftriaxone as compared to those treated with Ciprofloxacin (p<0.002). Conclusion: We report a change in the presentation and antibiotic sensitivity of paratyphi A infection as compared to existing literature. Ceftriaxone is a better drug as choice as it has shorter defervescence time. Key Words: Salmonella paratyphi A; Ceftriaxone; Ciprofloxacin; Defervescence DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3546 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 14-17