bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Interracial Contact on Whites' Perceptions of Victimization Risk and Black Criminality
Authors: Mears Daniel P. , Pickett Justin , Golden Kristin , Chiricos Ted , Gertz Marc
Published: December 2011

Objectives. This article examines two questions. First, does interracial contact increase or decrease Whites' perceptions of Blacks' criminality? Second, does it affect Whites' perceived victimization risk, and, if so, is the effect mediated by the perceived criminality of Blacks as compared to the perceived criminality of different racial and ethnic groups? Methods. Multivariate regression analyses of data from a national public opinion poll that included measures of perceived victimization risk and the criminality of Whites and Latinos. Results. Interracial contact increases Whites' perceptions of the criminality of all racial and ethnic groups, not just Blacks. It also increases Whites' perceived risk of victimization, an effect that partially arises by increasing their perception of Whites and Latinos, and not just Blacks, as criminal. Conclusions. Although the identified effects may be due to Whites' stereotypes about Blacks, they are equally consistent with the notion that interracial contact may educate Whites about crime. Unfortunately, the present study could not investigate this possibility. Future research ideally will address this limitation, use additional measures of contact, and assess other explanations for any identified effects.
Doctoral Dissertation Research in Rehabilitation Counseling
Authors: Tansey Timothy N. , Zanskas Stephen A. , Phillips Brian N.
Published: December 2011

Graduates of doctoral level programs are the stewards of their profession. Historically, doctoral dissertation research has been summarized as a service to improve research accessibility, analyze research trends, and suggest potential areas for future inquiry. The current review analyzes 99 doctoral dissertations from recognized rehabilitation counseling programs for the years 2005 through 2007. Departing from previous inquiries, the present study analyzed the methodology employed, the research model, and the type of statistical analyses implemented to answer the research questions posed by the dissertator. These additional points were included to reflect the growing emphasis in the field of rehabilitation counseling on evidence-based practice. A description of the methodology utilized to develop the reference citations, content summaries, observations, trends, and the annotated bibliography is provided. Potential implications for the practice of rehabilitation counseling, teaching, and future research are discussed.
Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Drug‐Drug Interactions of Endothelin Receptor Antagonists in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Venitz Jürgen , Zack Julia , Gillies Hunter , Allard Martine , Regnault Jean , Dufton Christopher
Published: December 2011

The authors review the basic pharmacology and potential for adverse drug‐drug interactions (DDIs) of bosentan and ambrisentan, the 2 endothelin receptor antagonists currently approved for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) treatment. Bosentan, an endothelin (ET) receptor‐type ETA and ETB antagonist, is metabolized to active metabolites by and an inducer of cytochrome P450 (CYP)2C9 and CYP3A. Ambrisentan, a selective ETA receptor antagonist, is metabolized primarily by uridine 5′diphosphate glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) 1A9S, 2B7S, and 1A3S and, to a lesser extent, by CYP3A and CYP2C19. Drug interactions observed with bosentan DDI studies have demonstrated a potential for significant clinical implications during PAH management: bosentan is contraindicated with cyclosporine A and glyburide, and additional monitoring/dose adjustments are required when coadministered with hormonal contraceptives, simvastatin, lopinavir/ritonavir, and rifampicin. As bosentan carries a boxed warning regarding risks of liver injury and showed dose‐dependant increases in serum aminotransferase abnormalities, drug interactions that increase bosentan exposure are of particular clinical concern. Ambrisentan DDI studies performed to date have shown only one clinically relevant DDI, an interaction with cyclosporine A that requires ambrisentan dose reduction. As the treatment of PAH moves toward multimodal combination therapy, scrutiny should be placed on ensuring that drug combinations achieve maximal clinical benefit while minimizing side effects.
The Impact of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program Services on Law Enforcement Investigational Practices
Authors: Campbell Rebecca , Bybee Deborah , Kelley Kathleen D. , Dworkin Emily R. , Patterson Debra
Published: December 2011

Sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) programs can be a vital resource to victims and the legal community. This study examined how police may use SANE services during the investigation phase and how this involvement may affect whether a case is forwarded by police to prosecutors. Police reports ( N = 343) of adult sexual assault cases in three midwestern law enforcement agencies were content-analyzed to capture the nature of SANE involvement in the investigation, the specific investigatory steps taken in each case, and the referral outcome. When the victim had a medical forensic exam, police collected more kinds of other evidence to support the case, which was associated with increased likelihood of case referral for prosecution. When SANEs conducted a suspect exam (i.e., a forensic examination of the suspect’s body), police were more likely to collect other kinds of evidence and more likely to interview the suspect, both of which were associated with increased likelihood of case referral.
Investor Perception of the International Accounting Standards Quality
Authors: Ferrari Mascia , Momente’ Francesco , Reggiani Francesco
Published: December 2011

The paper analyses whether the adoption of the IAS regime implies an improvement of the firms' earnings quality. Referring to a sample of German listed companies reporting under the IAS and German GAAP (HGB) in 2000-2004 years, we first examine whether IAS adopters are less subject to earnings management. Our findings show that, in general, the IAS sub-sample exhibits a level of earnings management lower or equal to the HGB adopters. The general evidence supports the position of the International Accounting Standard Board and of that part of the academic literature stating the IAS's better quality. Secondly, we investigate whether investors perceive a lower level of uncertainty and information asymmetry for earnings under the IAS regime, after controlling for the level of the discretionary accruals. We find that the IAS adoption entails a lower information asymmetry, but this benefit decreases with the firm size. This means that investors perceive the benefits of higher-quality accounting standards as partially offset by a greater managerial discretion in the small and medium size firms. Therefore, the improvement of the enforcement mechanisms (in addition to the Standard's quality) should be a major concern for IASB and other regulators.
Evaluating a Dichotomized Measure of Self-Reported Hearing Loss Against Gold Standard Audiometry
Authors: Kiely Kim M. , Gopinath Bamini , Mitchell Paul , Browning Colette J. , Anstey Kaarin J.
Published: December 2011

Objectives: To evaluate a harmonized binary measure of self-reported hearing loss against gold standard audiometry in an older adult population. Method: Seven nationally representative population-based studies were harmonized and pooled ( n = 23,001). Self-report items were recoded into a dichotomous format. Audiometric hearing loss was defined by averaged pure-tone thresholds greater than 25-decibel hearing level in the better ear. We compared age and sex stratified prevalence rates of hearing loss estimated by self-report and audiometric measures. Results: Overall, 56% of men and 43% of women had audiometric hearing loss. There were moderate associations between self-reported and audiometric hearing loss. However, prevalence based on self-report was overestimated for adults aged below 70 years and underestimated for adults aged above 75. Discussion: Self-report of hearing loss is insensitive to age effects and does not provide a reliable basis for estimating prevalence of age-related hearing loss, although may indicate perceived hearing disability.
Southern Sudan beyond Self-Determination
Authors: Olowu ’Dejo
Published: December 2011

After decades of sanguineous struggle for political and economic self-determination, the peoples of South Sudan eventually voted en masse for the emergence of the newest African state: the Republic of Southern Sudan. Beyond the euphoria of national liberation, however, this article traces similar experi-ences in the assertion of self-determination and how their dynamics could relate to post-liberation Southern Sudan. It is argued that beneath the broadly unifying theme of ‘national’ resistance to northern oppression lies more complex and ongoing struggles over the ownership and control of core historical narratives, identities, symbols and resources. Despite the pervasive ambience of fear, scepticism and caution in which Southern Sudan will ultimately emerge as a full-fledged sovereign state in July 2011, this article highlights certain variables that could turn out to be the lessons for and from this embryonic state. While not failing to point to the inherent frailties of this new state, this article strongly canvasses the collaboration of internal and external forces in turning Southern Sudan’s challenges and opportunities into veritable vehicles for making this entity a successful African story in post-independence nation-building and development as well as a unique contribution to self-determination discourses in an atmos-phere of sustainable peace and prosperity.
Relationships Between Culture and Institutions
Authors: Schultz Majken
Published: December 2011

This article suggests four different relationships between institutionalism and organizational culture seen as two different levels of analysis. The relationships represent a continuum from a significant influence of the institutional level on organizational culture to a significant cultural influence on the formation and construction of institutions. The four relationships are defined as 1) cultural filtering of institutional pressure from isomorphism, 2) organizational culture as a source of new institutional elements, 3) organizational culture as a source of positioning towards institutions, 4) counterculture as redefining institutions. The article also discusses how the relationships can be seen in a temporal perspective stressing how the relationships between culture and institutions develop over time. A temporal perspective further questions which processes constitute the relationships between culture and institutions and how they are connected. Finally, the article points at the influence of globalization challenging the national origin of many institutions when relating to a world of organizations, which increasingly are becoming global. For some companies, organizational cultures become global institutional forces in their own right, while some institutions become trapped in their own local organizational cultures. In conclusion, the article is a call for the development of a more temporal perspective on the relationships between culture and institutions- seen in a global perspective.
Stress-smoothing holes in an elastic plate: The triangular checkerboard lattice of low symmetry
Authors: Vigdergauz S
Published: December 2011

The shape optimization problem for a linearly elastic perforated plate with the triangular checkerboard of identical holes is considered with respect to the recently advanced criterion of minimizing the hoop stress variation. The paper continues the author’s previous research on optimizing the square-symmetric checkerboard and extends the results obtained to the non-symmetric lattice of the holes which are varied not only in their shapes, but also in their location. This novelty is resolved by enhancing the same three-component algorithm as before. It combines a genetic algorithm (GA) optimization with an efficient direct solver and with an economic shape parametrization, both formulated in the complex variable terms. The averaging nature of the stress variation criterion permits its effective numerical implementation for a wide range of the holes volume fraction at reasonable computational efforts. For an engineering audience, the elastic behaviour of the optimal structures is detailed in a graphics set.
Measurement of MicroRNA
Authors: Flowers Elena , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan , Aouizerat Bradley E.
Published: December 2011

MicroRNAs (miRs) are epigenetic regulators of messenger RNAs' (mRNA) expression of polypeptides. As such, miRs represent an intriguing mechanism by which gene–environment interactions are hypothesized to occur on the level of epigenetic control over gene expression. In addition to promising findings from in vitro studies indicating that miRs have the potential to function as therapeutic agents in modifying the course of pathophysiologic conditions, recent human studies revealed changes in miR expression patterns in response to behavioral interventions. The authors provide an overview of how miRs are preserved and isolated from other genetic material and describe commonly used methods for measuring miR in the research setting, including Northern blot, polymerase chain reaction, and microarray. The authors also introduce bioinformatic approaches to analysis of high-throughput miR expression and techniques used to create predictive models of miR-mRNA binding to describe possible physiologic pathways affected by specific miRs.
Limitations of the logico-rhetorical module: Inconsistency in argument, online discussion forums and Electronic Deconstruction
Authors: O’Halloran Kieran
Published: December 2011

My focus is the ‘logico-rhetorical module’ (Sperber, 2000). This mental module, Sperber hypothesizes, is an evolved ability of human beings to examine critically what someone is saying, for example, to detect inconsistency or inadequate evidence in an argument. On the assumption that we have this natural ability, Chilton (2005) questions the need for Critical Discourse Analysis; in contrast, on his reading of Sperber’s work, Hart (this issue) argues the opposite. In this article, I agree with Chilton’s (2005) stance to the extent that the competence of the logico-rhetorical module is, generally speaking, adequate for enabling critical engagement with verbal input. That said, I highlight two (non-competence related) limitations of the logico-rhetorical module for detecting inconsistency in arguments. To address these limitations, I hold a new approach is needed in Critical Discourse Analysis. This is one which draws on the corpus linguistic method; I refer to it as Electronic Deconstruction.
Social policy development and global financial crisis in the open economies of Botswana and Mauritius
Authors: Ulriksen Marianne S.
Published: December 2011

The manner in which open economies in a globalized world shape social policy development is highly disputed, as is the impact of the current financial crisis on social policy. One argument is that globalization and economic austerity force social policy dismantling. Alternatively, it is proposed that open economies – facing greater volatility, especially during crisis – push for greater social protection. Using the examples of Botswana and Mauritius, two open middle-income countries, this article suggests that, in fact, both arguments may be correct. The impact of globalization and economic crisis depends on the character of the welfare system already in place and the organized interests underpinning it. In Botswana a main social policy thrust is to increase efficiency in spending, whereas issues of job security and compensation are more prevalent in Mauritius. The findings imply that divergence across welfare systems persists and that, even in crisis, countries often use tried social policy solutions.
Actors and ideas behind CCTs in Chile, Costa Rica and El Salvador
Authors: Franzoni Juliana Martínez , Voorend Koen
Published: December 2011

Conditional Cash Transfer programs are currently at a crossroads, between consolidating minimum safety nets and laying the basis for universal social policy. In assessing which direction CCTs will take, it is important to analyze their formation. What domestic actors have been influential and how have expert-driven international ideas entered the domestic policy process? Is the impact related to existing welfare regimes? In this article the authors show that in general CCTs are the product of top-down and closed policy formation by elite coalitions, in which international factors play a central role. Nevertheless, domestic factors associated with welfare regimes, in particular the difference between state and non-state, informal regimes, account for important cross-national variations. If CCTs are to become a stepping-stone to universal social policy, closed policy communities have to be opened up.
Civil society advocacy and the diffusion of violence against women norms: An analysis of the International Violence Against Women Act
Authors: Shawki Noha
Published: December 2011

This article analyzes the advocacy campaign and the policy process surrounding the International Violence Against Women Act (I-VAWA) in the United States and explains the mobilization of this campaign and its political outcomes to date. The main question the article explores is: How can we interpret the effort by advocacy groups in the United States to use the domestic political process to advance their international goals? The findings suggest that the literature on norm and policy diffusion as well as the structure of political opportunities and framing, both variables identified by social movement theorists, can help us understand the I-VAWA campaign and its strategies and achievements to date. The article interprets the policy process surrounding I-VAWA as an effort by rooted cosmopolitans to use favorable domestic political opportunities and strategic framing to diffuse international norms and standards.
Development and characterization of cotton, organic cotton flat knit fabrics coated with chitosan, sodium alginate, calcium alginate polymers, and antibiotic drugs for wound healing
Authors: Shanmugasundaram OL , Mahendra Gowda RV
Published: December 2011

This article deals with development and characterization of cotton and organic cotton flat knit bandages for wound healing. Bioploymers such as chitosan–sodium alginate, sodium–calcium alginate, and their mixtures were coated on the bandage and subjected to Fourier transform–infrared and scanning electron microscope analysis. Bacteria present in infected wound samples were identified using different bio-chemical methods. Three antibiotic drugs were selected based on the antibiotic sensitivity test and incorporated into the polymer-coated samples to improve the antibacterial and wound healing properties. Further, the antibacterial activities of the samples were evaluated against the identified bacteria in the wound for about 4 days. The strongest antibacterial activity was found in chitosan–sodium alginate–calcium alginate coated with chloramphenicol and tetracycline hydrochloride drug-loaded cotton and organic cotton samples. Hence, these bandages are suitable for quick wound healing process.
Drug-eluting silk sutures to retard post-operative surgical site infections
Authors: Janiga PK , Elayarajah B , Rajendran R , Rammohan R , Venkatrajah B , Asa S
Published: December 2011

Surgical site infection due to biofilm formation is a common clinical complication in post-operative patients. Surgical site infection is the main complication in the case of gastrointestinal (appendectomy, genitourinary), colorectal, vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy, Caesarean section, abortion, traumatic wound and ophthalmic surgeries. Hence, the main aim of this study was to prepare antibacterial suture materials to prevent the biofilm formation. Surface characterization of drug-coated sutures was chemically analysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Antibacterial activity of drug-coated sutures was analysed qualitatively (Agar diffusion test) and quantitatively (bacterial adherence test). Persistence of drugs in the sutures after the elution period was analysed by serial plate transfer test. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed two peak values for drugs (1450.52 and 2870.17). Largest inhibition zone for Staphylococcus aureus (39 mm) was reported; quantitative analysis confirmed significant reduction ( p < 0.05) of adhered bacteria in drug-carrier-coated sutures than that of carrier-coated sutures ( p > 0.05). Serial plate transfer test indicated the persistence of drug after 5 weeks. In conclusion, the antimicrobial activity and persistence property of these drug-eluting silk sutures could be of great interest for the prevention of surgical site infections.
Improving Teaching Through A Community of Practice
Authors: Herbers M. Sharon , Antelo Absael , Ettling Dorothy , Buck M. Alison
Published: December 2011

Four faculty members describe their collective experiences of being involved in a community of practice (CoP) designed to deconstruct individual teaching experiences through critical reflection and dialogue. The CoP began while conducting a research project to enhance the quality of a doctoral program focused on preparing graduates as agents of change in culturally diverse environments. The authors describe their experiences, present an emerging model of professional development, illustrate the process from two of their participants’ perspectives, and identify implications for other learning communities.
Ethnic Identity and Job Attribute Preferences
Authors: Combs Gwendolyn M. , Milosevic Ivana , Jeung Wonho , Griffith Jakari
Published: December 2011

The globalization of the workforce has resulted in the need to recruit talent from an increasingly diverse labor market. Understanding how ethnicity may drive individual preferences regarding two important types of job attributes is of value in knowing how to attract potential employees from different ethnic backgrounds. Using a sample of 380 college students from the Midwest and Southeastern region, the authors examined the relationship between ethnic identity, job attributes, collectivism/individualism, and psychological capital. Using structural equation modeling, they found that ethnical identity is more strongly related to the competence and growth aspect of job attribute preferences than status and independence. Next, they demonstrated that collectivism and psychological capital mediate the relationship between ethnic identity and the competence and growth aspect. These promising results suggest that organizational efforts to attract a diverse workforce may benefit from considering the aspects of work that would appeal to different ethnic groups.
The Effect of Training and Development on Employee Attitude as it Relates to Training and Work Proficiency
Authors: Truitt Debra L.
Published: December 2011

It is incumbent on training and development professionals to design, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of their programs in reducing disputes in workplace performance. This study explores the relationships between training experiences and attitudes and attitudes about perceived job proficiency. In a sample of 237 full-time salaried/exempt and hourly/nonexempt employees from one academic institution and three businesses in the states of Maryland, Delaware, and Arizona, the author finds a direct relationship between one’s positive training experiences and attitudes and one’s proficiency. In this study, 86.8% of those who had updated training had the most positive attitudes toward training (γ = .293, p < .05). Furthermore, 80% of those who had negative training attitudes also had negative views on their proficiency (γ = .465, p < .000).
Invitational Rhetoric and the Case for Service Learning
Authors: Hicks-Goldston Christina L.
Published: December 2011

This research argues for repositioning Service Learning as a necessary part of public education, with the transformative goal of empowered communities operating in a social-collaborative framework from communities dependent on overburdened state and local government programs and services. Such repositioning depends on recognition of Service Learning as a means of providing that preparation. To “mainstream” Service Learning, this research proposes two initiatives: (a) Foster the idea of the Service Learning experience as citizenship/community building by associating the experience with embedded cultural values and (b) apply Invitational Rhetoric in persuading students and parents to view Service Learning as something other than imposed servitude or social consciousness for a grade. Service Learning has proven to be successful in changing students’ attitudes about their place in society. If Service Learning were a part of the common educational core, the potential for repositioning its value to citizenry would be highly expanded. Because many communities lack access to education and training for the citizenry, Service Learning could supply that link to empowerment.
Thyroid hormone-regulated gene expression in juvenile mouse liver: identification of thyroid response elements using microarray profiling and in silico analyses
Authors: Paquette Martin A , Dong Hongyan , Gagné Rémi , Williams Andrew , Malowany Morie , Wade Mike G , Yauk Carole L
Published: December 2011

Background

Disruption of thyroid hormone signalling can alter growth, development and energy metabolism. Thyroid hormones exert their effects through interactions with thyroid receptors that directly bind thyroid response elements and can alter transcriptional activity of target genes. The effects of short-term thyroid hormone perturbation on hepatic mRNA transcription in juvenile mice were evaluated, with the goal of identifying genes containing active thyroid response elements. Thyroid hormone disruption was induced from postnatal day 12 to 15 by adding goitrogens to dams' drinking water (hypothyroid). A subgroup of thyroid hormone-disrupted pups received intraperitoneal injections of replacement thyroid hormones four hours prior to sacrifice (replacement). An additional group received only thyroid hormones four hours prior to sacrifice (hyperthyroid). Hepatic mRNA was extracted and hybridized to Agilent mouse microarrays.

Results

Transcriptional profiling enabled the identification of 28 genes that appeared to be under direct thyroid hormone-regulation. The regulatory regions of the genome adjacent to these genes were examined for half-site sequences that resemble known thyroid response elements. A bioinformatics search identified 33 thyroid response elements in the promoter regions of 13 different genes thought to be directly regulated by thyroid hormones. Thyroid response elements found in the promoter regions of Tor1a, 2310003H01Rik, Hect3d and Slc25a45 were further validated by confirming that the thyroid receptor is associated with these sequencesin vivoand that it can bind directly to these sequencesin vitro. Three different arrangements of thyroid response elements were identified. Some of these thyroid response elements were located far up-stream (> 7 kb) of the transcription start site of the regulated gene.

Conclusions

Transcriptional profiling of thyroid hormone disrupted animals coupled with a novel bioinformatics search revealed new thyroid response elements associated with genes previously unknown to be responsive to thyroid hormone. The work provides insight into thyroid response element sequence motif characteristics.
Evaluation of gastrointestinal symptoms in different patient groups using the visual analogue scale for irritable bowel syndrome (VAS-IBS)
Authors: Bengtsson Mariette , Hammar Oskar , Mandl Thomas , Ohlsson Bodil
Published: December 2011

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility disorders have a similar clinical picture, although dysmotility disorders require the attention of a specialist. Patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) have also been described to suffer from IBS-like symptoms. No objective marker is available to distinguish between the patients. A visual analogue scale has been developed for IBS patients (VAS-IBS) to measure treatment response of GI symptoms and well-being in patients with IBS. The aim of the present study was to examine if VAS-IBS could be used to compare the degree of GI complaints in different patient populations, to get an objective marker to differentiate between the patients.

Methods

The VAS-IBS consists of 7 VAS scales, namely, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating and flatulence, vomiting and nausea, psychological well-being and the intestinal symptoms' influence on daily life. Consecutive female patients suffering from IBS, dysmotility disorders and pSS were asked to complete the VAS-IBS questionnaire when visiting the out-patient clinics. In addition, a control population consisting of healthy female volunteers was included.

Results

Healthy volunteers had almost no GI symptoms, whereas all 3 patient groups expressed symptoms. There was no statistical significant difference between IBS and dysmotility in any of the scales besides vomiting and nausea (p = 0.044). Except for constipation, patients with pSS had less severe symptoms than the others.

Conclusion

The VAS-IBS questionnaire could be used to assess the level of GI symptoms. However, VAS scores do not help the clinicians to differentiate between IBS and other dysmotility disturbances.
Relationship between reported prior condom use and current self-perceived risk of acquiring HIV among mobile female sex workers in southern India
Authors: Jain Anrudh K , Saggurti Niranjan , Mahapatra Bidhubhusan , Sebastian Mary Philip , Modugu Hanimi Reddy , Halli Shiva S , Verma Ravi K
Published: December 2011

Background

With the evolution of Health Belief Model, risk perception has been identified as one of several core components of public health interventions. While female sex workers (FSWs) in India continue to be at most risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV, little is known about their perception towards risk of acquiring HIV and how this perception depends upon their history of consistent condom use behavior with different type of partners. The objective of this study is to fill this gap in the literature by examining this relationship among mobile FSWs in southern India.

Methods

We analyzed data for 5,413 mobile FSWs from a cross-sectional behavioral survey conducted in 22 districts from four states in southern India. This survey assessed participants’ demographics, condom use in sex with different types of partners, continuation of sex while experiencing STI symptoms, alcohol use before having sex, and self-perceived risk of acquiring HIV. Descriptive analyses and multilevel logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between risky sexual behaviors and self-perceived risk of acquiring HIV; and to understand the geographical differences in HIV risk perception.

Results

Of the total mobile FSWs, only two-fifths (40%) perceived themselves to be at high risk of acquiring HIV; more so in the state of Andhra Pradesh (56%) and less in Maharashtra (17%). FSWs seem to assess their current risk of acquiring HIV primarily on the basis of their past condom use behavior with occasional clients and less on the basis of their past condom use behaviors with regular clients and non-paying partners. Prior inconsistent condom use with occasional clients was independently associated with current perception of high HIV risk (adjusted odds ratio [aOR)] = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.7-2.6). In contrast, prior inconsistent condom use with non-paying partners was associated with current perception of low HIV risk (aOR= 0.7, 95% CI: 0.5-0.9). The congruence between HIV risk perception and condom use with occasional clients was high: only 12% of FSWs reported inconsistent condom use with occasional clients but perceived themselves to be at low risk of acquiring HIV.

Conclusion

The association between high risk perception of acquiring HIV and inconsistent condom use, especially with regular clients and non-paying partners, has not been completely internalized by this high risk group of mobile FSWs in India. Motivational efforts to prevent HIV should emphasize the importance of accurately assessing an individual’s risk of acquiring HIV based on condom use behavior with all types of partners: occasional and regular clients as well as non-paying partners; and encourage behavior change based on an accurate self-assessment of HIV risk.
The Alvarado score for predicting acute appendicitis: a systematic review
Authors: Ohle Robert , O'Reilly Fran , O'Brien Kirsty K , Fahey Tom , Dimitrov Borislav D
Published: December 2011

Background

The Alvarado score can be used to stratify patients with symptoms of suspected appendicitis; the validity of the score in certain patient groups and at different cut points is still unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the discrimination (diagnostic accuracy) and calibration performance of the Alvarado score.

Methods

A systematic search of validation studies in Medline, Embase, DARE and The Cochrane library was performed up to April 2011. We assessed the diagnostic accuracy of the score at the two cut-off points: score of 5 (1 to 4 vs. 5 to 10) and score of 7 (1 to 6 vs. 7 to 10). Calibration was analysed across low (1 to 4), intermediate (5 to 6) and high (7 to 10) risk strata. The analysis focused on three sub-groups: men, women and children.

Results

Forty-two studies were included in the review. In terms of diagnostic accuracy, the cut-point of 5 was good at 'ruling out' admission for appendicitis (sensitivity 99% overall, 96% men, 99% woman, 99% children). At the cut-point of 7, recommended for 'ruling in' appendicitis and progression to surgery, the score performed poorly in each subgroup (specificity overall 81%, men 57%, woman 73%, children 76%). The Alvarado score is well calibrated in men across all risk strata (low RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.28; intermediate 1.09, 0.86 to 1.37 and high 1.02, 0.97 to 1.08). The score over-predicts the probability of appendicitis in children in the intermediate and high risk groups and in women across all risk strata.

Conclusions

The Alvarado score is a useful diagnostic 'rule out' score at a cut point of 5 for all patient groups. The score is well calibrated in men, inconsistent in children and over-predicts the probability of appendicitis in women across all strata of risk.
Adjuvant chemotherapy for resected non-small-cell lung cancer: future perspectives for clinical research
Authors: Bonomi Maria , Pilotto Sara , Milella Michele , Massari Francesco , Cingarlini Sara , Brunelli Matteo , Chilosi Marco , Tortora Giampaolo , Bria Emilio
Published: December 2011

Adjuvant chemotherapy for non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is a debated issue in clinical oncology. Although it is considered a standard for resected stage II-IIIA patients according to the available guidelines, many questions are still open. Among them, it should be acknowledged that the treatment for stage IB disease has shown so far a limited (if sizable) efficacy, the role of modern radiotherapies requires to be evaluated in large prospective randomized trials and the relative impact of age and comorbidities should be weighted to assess the reliability of the trials' evidences in the context of the everyday-practice. In addition, a conclusive evidence of the best partner for cisplatin is currently awaited as well as a deeper investigation of the fading effect of chemotherapy over time. The limited survival benefit since first studies were published and the lack of reliable prognostic and predictive factors beyond pathological stage, strongly call for the identification of bio-molecular markers and classifiers to identify which patients should be treated and which drugs should be used. Given the disappointing results of targeted therapy in this setting have obscured the initial promising perspectives, a biomarker-selection approach may represent the basis of future trials exploring adjuvant treatment for resected NSCLC.
Folic Acid supplementary reduce the incidence of adenocarcinoma in a mouse model of colorectal cancer: microarray gene expression profile
Authors: Lin Yan-Wei , Wang Ji-Lin , Chen Hui-Min , Zhang Yan-Jie , Rong-Lu  , Ren Lin-Lin , Hong Jie , Fang Jing-Yuan
Published: December 2011

Background

Whether Folic acid is a potential drug that may prevent the progression of colorectal carcinoma and when to use are important healthy issues we focus on. Our study is to examine the effect of folic acid on the development of the CRC and the optimal time folic acid should be provided in a mouse-ICR model induced by 1, 2-Dimethylhydrazine. Also, we investigated the gene expression profile of this model related to folic acid.

Method

Female ICR mouse (n = 130) were divided into 7 groups either with the treatment of 1, 2-Dimethylhydrazine (20 mg/kg bodyweight) weekly or folic acid (8 mg/kg bodyweight) twice a week for 12 or 24 weeks. Using a 4 × 44 K Agilent whole genome oligo microarray assay, different gene expression among groups (NS, DMH, FA2, FA3) were identified and selected genes were validated by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Animals with a supplementary of folic acid showed a significant decrease in the incidence, the maximum diameter and multiplicity of adenocarcinomas (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there were fewer adenomas or adenocarcinomas developed in the group of folic acid supplementation in pre-adenoma stage compared to group of post-adenoma stage. Meanwhile, about 1070 genes that were changed by 1, 2-Dimethylhydrazine can be reversed by folic acid and 172 differentially genes were identified between the groups of pre- and post- adenoma stage using microarray gene expression analysis.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that folic acid supplementary was significantly associated with the decrease risk of CRC. And the subgroup of providing folic acid without precancerous lesions was more effective than that with precancerous lesions.
Zinc, ferritin, magnesium and copper in a group of Egyptian children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Mahmoud Magdy M , El-Mazary Abdel-Azeem M , Maher Reham M , Saber Manal M
Published: December 2011

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a behavioral syndrome of childhood characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. There were many etiological theories showed dysfunction of some brain areas that are implicated in inhibition of responses and functions of the brain. Minerals like zinc, ferritin, magnesium and copper may play a role in the pathogenesis and therefore the treatment of this disorder.

Objective

This study aimed to measure levels of zinc, ferritin, magnesium and copper in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and comparing them to normal.

Methods

This study included 58 children aged 5-15 years with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder attending Minia University Hospital from June 2008 to January 2010. They were classified into three sub-groups: sub-group I included 32 children with in-attentive type, sub-group II included 10 children with hyperactive type and sub-group III included 16 children with combined type according to the DSM-IV criteria of American Psychiatric Association, 2000. The control group included 25 apparently normal healthy children.

Results

Zinc, ferritin and magnesium levels were significantly lower in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder than controls (p value 0.04, 0.03 and 0.02 respectively), while copper levels were not significantly different (p value 0.9). Children with inattentive type had significant lower levels of zinc and ferritin than controls (p value 0.001 and 0.01 respectively) with no significant difference between them as regards magnesium and copper levels (p value 0.4 and 0.6 respectively). Children with hyperactive type had significant lower levels of zinc, ferritin and magnesium than controls (p value 0.01, 0.02 and 0.02 respectively) with no significant difference between them as regards copper levels (p value 0.9). Children with combined type had significant lower levels of zinc and magnesium than controls (p value 0.001 and 0.004 respectively) with no significant difference between them as regards ferritin and copper levels (p value 0.7 and 0.6 respectively).

Conclusions

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder had lower levels of zinc, ferritin and magnesium than healthy children but had normal copper levels.
Notochordal cells protect nucleus pulposus cells from degradation and apoptosis: implications for the mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Erwin W Mark , Islam Diana , Inman Robert D , Fehlings Michael G , Tsui Florence WL
Published: December 2011

Introduction

The relative resistance of non-chondrodystrophic (NCD) canines to degenerative disc disease (DDD) may be due to a combination of anabolic and anti-catabolic factors secreted by notochordal cells within the intervertebral disc (IVD) nucleus pulposus (NP). Factors known to induce DDD include interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß) and/or Fas-Ligand (Fas-L). Therefore we evaluated the ability of notochordal cell conditioned medium (NCCM) to protect NP cells from IL-1ß and IL-1ß +FasL-mediated cell death and degeneration.

Methods

We cultured bovine NP cells with IL-1ß or IL-1ß+FasL under hypoxic serum-free conditions (3.5% O2) and treated the cells with either serum-free NCCM or basal medium (Advanced DMEM/F-12). We used flow cytometry to evaluate cell death and real-time (RT-)PCR to determine the gene expression of aggrecan, collagen 2, and link protein, mediators of matrix degradation ADAMTS-4 and MMP3, the matrix protection molecule TIMP1, the cluster of differentiation (CD)44 receptor, the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and Ank. We then determined the expression of specific apoptotic pathways in bovine NP cells by characterizing the expression of activated caspases-3, -8 and -9 in the presence of IL-1ß+FasL when cultured with NCCM, conditioned medium obtained using bovine NP cells (BCCM), and basal medium all supplemented with 2% FBS.

Results

NCCM inhibits bovine NP cell death and apoptosis via suppression of activated caspase-9 and caspase-3/7. Furthermore, NCCM protects NP cells from the degradative effects of IL-1ß and IL-1ß+Fas-L by up-regulating the expression of anabolic/matrix protective genes (aggrecan, collagen type 2, CD44, link protein and TIMP-1) and down-regulating matrix degrading genes such as MMP-3. Expression of ADAMTS-4, which encodes a protein for aggrecan remodeling, is increased. NCCM also protects against IL-1+FasL-mediated down-regulation of Ank expression. Furthermore, NP cells treated with NCCM in the presence of IL-1ß+Fas-L down-regulate the expression of IL-6 by almost 50%. BCCM does not mediate cell death/apoptosis in target bovine NP cells.

Conclusions

Notochordal cell-secreted factors suppress NP cell death by inhibition of activated caspase-9 and -3/7 activity and by up-regulating genes contributing anabolic activity and matrix protection of the IVD NP. Harnessing the restorative powers of the notochordal cell could lead to novel cellular and molecular strategies in the treatment of DDD.
Effectiveness of Optimizing Geometry for CaMn4O5 Cluster at 1.9 Å Resolved OEC and Proposal for Oxidation Mechanism from S0 to S3 States
Authors: Ichino Tomoya , Yamaguchi Kizashi , Yoshioka Yasunori
Published: December 2011

Based on the structure at 1.9 Å resolved OEC, which was published as PDBid=3ARC this year, the electronic structures of the CaMn4O5 cluster at S0, S1, and S2 states are examined under the geometry optimization of the mixed-valence CaMn4O5 cluster and water molecules. It is shown that optimizing geometry purifies the spin structures of four manganese atoms, easily determining their oxidation states. It is also shown that one of two water molecules is a substrate for the oxidation to yield the oxygen molecule.
Thioamides and Thioformamides for Sequential Reactions with Organolithium and Grignard Reagents
Authors: Murai Toshiaki , Mutoh Yuichiro
Published: December 2011

Sequential reactions of thioamides and thioformamides with organolithium and Grignard reagents are described. Thioiminium salts derived from these sulfur isologues of amides readily react with lithium acetylides to lead to several types of products, including α,β-unsaturated ketones, whereas sequential additions of lithium acetylides and Grignard reagents afford propargylamines. The direct addition of organolithium and Grignard reagents to thioformamides proceeds with high efficiency to give a range of tertiary amines.
A Dimer-of-dimers Composed of Paddlewheel Diruthenium(II, III) Complexes and a Bridge of Tetrachlorohydroquinonate(2−) Derived by Intramolecular Charge Transfers
Authors: Itoh Masahisa , Asai Yuichiro , Kamo Hiromichi , Miura Akira , Miyasaka Hitoshi
Published: December 2011

The reaction of a paddlewheel-type diruthenium(II, II) complex, [Ru2II,II(o-MeOPhCO2)4(THF)2] ([Ru2II,II]; o-MeOPhCO2−: o-anisate), and chloranil (QCl4) leads to a charge transfer from [Ru2II,II] to QCl4, forming a dimer-of-dimers of [Ru2II,III]+ units bridged by tetrachlorohydroquinonate dianion (QCl42−): [{Ru2II,III(o-MeOPhCO2)4(THF)}2(QCl4)].
Enzymatic Polymerization to Cellulose by Crosslinked Enzyme Immobilized on Gold Solid Surface
Authors: Nakamura Itsuko , Makino Akira , Ohmae Masashi , Kimura Shunsaku
Published: December 2011

Mutant endoglucanase II was locally immobilized on a gold substrate by crosslinking, and enzymatic polymerization to cellulose was analyzed. The crosslinked enzyme showed an enhanced polymerization activity to produce cellulose with high crystallinity, which is due to the high local concentration of the enzyme on the substrate surface.
5-Methylcytosine Selective Photoligation Using Photoresponsive Oligonucleotides Containing Various 5-Vinyl-2′-deoxyuridines Having an Aromatic Group
Authors: Sakamoto Takashi , Ami Takehiro , Fujimoto Kenzo
Published: December 2011

Photoresponsibility of oligonucleotides containing 5-vinyl-2′-deoxyuridine derivatives having an aromatic group and its selectivity for 5-methylcytosine (mC) were evaluated. Their high extinction coefficient and hydrophobicity caused mC selective photoligation with a 10- to 20-fold higher reaction rate than 5-cyanovinyl-2′-deoxyuridine, previously reported.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Micro Amounts of Albumin Using Zirconium(IV) and Xylenol Orange
Authors: Miyachi Kanako , Kurokawa Hisashi , Moriyama Kenzo , Morimoto Shigefumi , Tabuse Katsuyoshi , Asano Mamiko , Yamaguchi Takako , Fujita Yoshikazu
Published: December 2011

A highly sensitive and selective spectrophotometric method is developed to measure micro amounts of albumin. The proposed method is based on the fact that zirconium(IV)–Xylenol Orange complex fades in the presence of albumin. In the concentration range of 0.1–0.9 µg cm−3, human serum albumin obeys Beer’s law and shows an effective molar absorptivity of 8.4 × 107 dm3 mol−1 cm−1 at 605 nm.
Surgeon or Assistant? Assessing Trainee Progress from Log Book Activity: A 15-year Analysis
Authors: Logan JS , Sinnett T , Solan M
Published: December 2011

The European Working Time Directive (EWTD) became law for junior doctors in August 2004. It reduced the working week to a maximum of 58 hours. In 2007 the working week was reduced further to 56 hours and to 48 hours in 2009. In a survey conducted by the Royal College of Surgeons EWTD working party in 2004–2005, 82% of senior house officers (SHOs) felt that their theatre time had decreased.