bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parent and Teacher Support Among Latino Immigrant Youth
Authors: Garcia-Reid Pauline , Peterson Christina Hamme , Reid Robert J.
Published: July 2013

While a significant portion of Latino immigrant youth are failing to meet their academic potential, many others have been able to acquire the resources needed to excel academically. This study examined social capital assets (i.e., parent and teacher supports) for school engagement and trouble avoidance among a sample of recently arrived, non-U.S. born, middle school Latino adolescents ( n = 141) residing in a high-poverty community located in the northeastern United States. School outcomes were compared for students who reported different combinations of low and high teacher and parent support. Findings from this study provided evidence of the additive benefit of teacher and parent support on school engagement and trouble avoidance among middle school, Latino immigrant adolescents. Implications for school-based interventions for this underserved population are discussed.
A Method for Imputing Response Options for Missing Data on Multiple-Choice Assessments
Authors: Wolkowitz Amanda A. , Skorupski William P.
Published: July 2013

When missing values are present in item response data, there are a number of ways one might impute a correct or incorrect response to a multiple-choice item. There are significantly fewer methods for imputing the actual response option an examinee may have provided if he or she had not omitted the item either purposely or accidentally. This article applies the multiple-choice model, a multiparameter logistic model that allows for in-depth distractor analyses, to impute response options for missing data in multiple-choice items. Following a general introduction of the issues involved with missing data, the article describes the details of the multiple-choice model and demonstrates its use for multiple imputation of missing item responses. A simple simulation example is provided to demonstrate the accuracy of the imputation method by comparing true item difficulties ( p values) and item–total correlations ( r values) to those estimated after imputation. Missing data are simulated according to three different types of missing mechanisms: missing completely at random, missing at random, and missing not at random.
Electrochemical synthesis and corrosion behaviour of polypyrrole and polypyrrole/carbon nanotube nanocomposite films
Authors: Ganash AA
Published: July 2013

This study examines the use of polypyrrole and polypyrrole/multi-walled carbon nanotubes composite coatings for corrosion protection of 304 stainless steel in 3% NaCl solution. Polypyrrole and polypyrrole/multi-walled carbon nanotubes composite coatings were electropolymerised on 304 stainless steel surfaces by the potentiodynamic method in aqueous sulphuric acid solutions. The coatings were characterised via cyclic voltammetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The corrosion behaviour of the polymer-coated stainless steel electrodes was investigated in a 3% NaCl solution by open-circuit potential measurements, Tafel polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Potentiodynamic polarisation, impedance measurements and open-circuit potential data revealed that the polypyrrole and polypyrrole/multi-walled carbon nanotubes composite coatings effectively protected the stainless steel substrates from corrosion in chloride solution. However, the corrosion resistance of the substrates was reduced after longer immersion times.
Cognitive Decline and Oral Health in Middle-aged Adults in the ARIC Study
Authors: Naorungroj S. , Slade G.D. , Beck J.D. , Mosley T.H. , Gottesman R.F. , Alonso A. , Heiss G.
Published: July 2013

Even before dementia becomes apparent, cognitive decline may contribute to deterioration in oral health. This cohort study of middle-aged adults evaluated associations of six-year change in cognitive function with oral health behaviors and conditions in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. Cognitive function was measured at study visits in 1990-1992 and 1996-1998 with three tests: (a) Delayed Word Recall (DWR), (b) Digit Symbol Substitution (DSS), and (c) Word Fluency (WF). Cognitive decline scores were computed as ‘studentized’ residuals of 1996-1998 scores regressed against 1990-1992 scores. In 1996-1998, 10,050 participants answered dental screening questions, and 5,878 of 8,782 dentate participants received a comprehensive oral examination. Multiple regression models used cognitive change to predict oral health behaviors and conditions with adjustment for covariates. In the fully adjusted models, greater decline in all three measures of cognitive function was associated with increased odds of complete tooth loss. Greater decline in DSS and WF scores was associated with infrequent toothbrushing. Decline in WF scores was also associated with higher plaque levels. In these middle-aged adults, six-year cognitive decline was modestly associated with less frequent toothbrushing, plaque deposit, and greater odds of edentulism, but not with other oral behaviors or diseases.
Cellulose–PEG grafts from cotton waste in thermo-regulating textiles
Authors: Kuru Arzu , Aksoy Sennur Alay
Published: July 2013

This study focused on the production of heat storage materials from cotton wastes by incorporating a phase-change material and determination of their thermo-regulating properties. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was grafted onto a cellulosic cotton backbone to give solid–solid phase change properties. The change in the surface morphology of the fibers was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Chemical characterization of the fibers was carried out using Fourier-transform infrared radiation spectroscopy. Thermal analysis of the modified fibers was performed by differential scanning calorimetry, and the thermal regulating properties of the PEG-grafted fibers were investigated using a thermal history system comprising insulated boxes, temperature sensors and a data-logger. Static thermal insulation measurements were also carried out on the fibers. The PEG-grafted cellulose fibers were shown to absorb up to 33.8 J/g heat at 33.0℃, releasing 31.5 J/g heat at 29.4℃, during the phase transitions. Thermal history results showed that temperature of the box containing PEG1000-incorporated fiber differed by 1–1.5 ± 0.1℃ from the temperature of the box containing untreated cotton fibers over 23–25 minutes. Based on these results it is concluded that PEG-grafted cellulose has sufficiently high energy storage properties to be employed as a thermo-regulating material.
Does Selling State Silver Generate Private Gold? Neighbourhood Impacts of State House Sales
Authors: Bergstrom Katy , Grimes Arthur , Stillman Steven
Published: July 2013

This paper utilises two politically determined natural experiments affecting state-provided social housing to examine the impact that housing tenure status has on neighbourhood outcomes. From 1990, New Zealand’s National government sold a substantial number of state houses either to existing tenants (Home Buys) or to other purchasers (vacant sales). From 1999, the Labour government ended Home Buys, reduced vacant sales and increased acquisitions. While vacant sales had no material effects on local outcomes, a higher prevalence of Home Buys led to increased local house price appreciation despite demographic trends that would otherwise have led to falling relative house prices in those communities.
Growing Up Under Pressure
Authors: Aljughaiman Abdullah M. , Grigorenko Elena L.
Published: July 2013

This essay presents an overview of the system of gifted education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To highlight the characteristics of this system, however, its presentation is preceded by a discussion of particular aspects of Saudi society and its general system of education. These aspects distinctly differentiate the general and gifted systems of Saudi education from other educational systems in the world, in spite of these systems’ many similarities.
Pragmatism and moral progress
Authors: Sorrell Kory
Published: July 2013

John Dewey developed a pragmatic theory of inquiry to provide intelligent methods for social progress. He believed that the logic and attitude of successful scientific inquiries, properly conceived, could be fruitfully applied to morals and politics. Unfortunately, his project has been poorly understood and his logic of inquiry neglected as a resource. Contemporary pragmatists, like Richard Rorty, for example, dismiss his emphasis on method and avoid judgments of moral progress that are in any way independent of the biases of particular cultures. In this article, I argue that Dewey’s theory of inquiry indeed provides intelligent methods and intellectual criteria for engaging moral and political matters. Inquiry, as Dewey conceives it, issues in judgments that are increasingly objective, reliable and refined in application. These judgments are rooted in particular times and places, in actual ‘situations’, but are not entirely hostage to specific cultures. I then apply Dewey’s theory to two standard moral problems to demonstrate how it works. The conclusion is that Dewey’s theory of inquiry gets it just right: it provides solid ground for criticism and moral progress while remaining acutely sensitive to cultural differences and changing circumstances.
Fields of Individuals and Neoliberal Logics
Authors: Edwards Elise
Published: July 2013

This article explores the relationship between popular representations of soccer and the rise of neoliberal discourse celebrating a new individualism in Japan at the turn of the millennium, a time when the country experienced sharp economic decline and consequent economic restructuring. Examining dominant vocabularies and practices present in coaching discourse, on soccer fields, and in media portrayals of Japanese men’s and women’s professional leagues, the author argues that rather than a coincidental, coeval mirroring between two seemingly unrelated realms—sports and economic transformations—these relationships point to the positioning of soccer over the past 20 years in Japan as a site to educate and physically train individualistic sensibilities and perspectives suitable to and reinforcing of a neoliberal labor market and governmental system.
Case Report: Remote monitoring using Spectrum Medical Live Vue allows improved response time and improved quality of care for patients on cardiopulmonary support
Authors: Fung K , Beck JR , Lopez HC , Mongero LB
Published: July 2013

Clinician rounding on bedside extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a common coverage practice at many centers across the USA. Occasionally, clinical issues or concerns may go unnoticed for a considerable period of time during the intervals of clinician rounds. We report a case utilizing the LiveVue (Spectrum Medical, Fort Mill, SC) remote monitoring for care of a patient on ECMO.

A patient was placed on veno-arterial (VA) ECMO in our intensive care unit, using a Rotaflow centrifugal pump and a Quadrox D polymethylpentene (PMP) fiber oxygenator (both Maquet, Fairfield, NJ). Following ECMO initiation and stabilization, a two-hour rounding schedule was established for the covering perfusionist. On day two, shortly after the perfusionist had rounded, the ECMO flow began fluctuating between 0.1 and 2.1 L/min. A compliance alert (i.e. red flashing notification) was recognized by the perfusion team on a large screen monitor installed in the perfusion pump room. Immediate response from the perfusion team identified venous inflow obstruction due to cannula malposition. The pump revolutions per minute (rpm) and, thus, the resulting flow were temporarily reduced to prevent vessel intimal damage and the surgical team was summoned to reposition the venous cannula. Later in that ECMO run, a steady rise in pre-oxygenator pressure was noted by the perfusionist. This increasingly concerning event was able to be trended and monitored with the LiveVue from a remote location. After a few hours, a compliance alert was noticed again on the LiveVue screen in the pump room. The pre-oxygenator pressure increased by 150 mmHg and the circuit flow decreased by half. Again, the perfusionist response was immediate and an oxygenator change-out ensued. Once more, a potentially dangerous clinical scenario was avoided with continuous critical parameter remote monitoring using the LiveVue system.
Framing the picture
Authors: Nelson Josh , Nelson Adie
Published: July 2013

While many have investigated media constructions of ‘newsworthy’ and ‘non-newsworthy’ crimes and their victims, the overwhelming focus of these analyses has been upon violent crime in its myriad forms. In contrast, this article examines the Canadian print media’s peculiar construction of crime, criminals, and victims in the world of art fraud from 1978 to 2012. Just as art fraud is not thought of as normal ‘crime news’ and is bracketed away elsewhere, the victims of art fraud tend not to be regarded as ideal victims. We note that allegations of art fraud in Australia and elsewhere have occasionally provided a catalytic environment for discussions of ‘who is an “Aboriginal artist”?’, ‘what is “Aboriginal art”?’, and ‘who owns Native culture?’ However, the Canadian print media’s response to allegations of fraud in relation to the art and artistry of Canada’s indigenous peoples suggests how contemplation of these questions can be forestalled.
Catch It If You Can
Authors: Krishen Anjala S.
Published: July 2013

This article proposes a theory-based contagious motivation model focusing on enhancing student perceptions of group projects and ultimately course satisfaction. Moreover, drawing from both pedagogical and organizational behavior literatures, a model is presented that ties together intrinsic motivation theory with social contagion and contextualizes these within the conceptual methodology of group projects in a classroom. The structural equation model is tested with an undergraduate student sample of 215 students and found to have adequate fit. The key implication of the model is that individual student motivation can be increased by fostering an active learning environment, and more importantly, group projects can create and foster positive motivation when properly implemented by educators.
Quantitative evaluation of the axonal degeneration of central motor neurons in chronic cerebral stroke with diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Lai Can , Zhou Hai-Chun , Ma Xiao-Hui , Zhang Hong-Xi
Published: July 2013

Background

Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can only show the degeneration-induced morphological changes but fail to quantitatively reveal the degree and extent of the axonal damage of nerve fibers. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has the ability to detect the diffusion of water molecules and thus suitable to the study of axonal degeneration of central motor neurons.

Purpose

To illustrate and quantitatively evaluate the axonal degeneration of central motor neurons in patients with chronic cerebral stroke.

Material and Methods

DTI and conventional MRI were carried out with 10 normal control subjects and 25 patients who suffered from chronic cerebral stroke in the region supplied by middle cerebral artery and had varying degrees of limb movement disorders (the mean time of onset was 2.5 months), to measure the fractional anisotropy (FA), volume ratio (VR), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), tensor eigenvalues (λ1, λ2, and λ3), and signal intensity (SI) on T2-weighted images, of the central motor fibers (pyramidal tract) in the plane of cerebral peduncle. Results from the ipsilateral side were compared with those from the contralateral side in the same patient and with those from normal control.

Results

The axonal degeneration of central motor neurons manifests in DTI as the decline of FA of the pyramidal tract and the reduction and distortion of the high signal area. While all the FA, VR, ADC, and λ1 in the ipsilateral side reduce on DTI, λ3 increases; the T2-weighted signals exhibit no significant differences among groups.

Conclusion

The changes and diffusions of water molecule associated with the axonal degeneration of central motor neurons after chronic cerebral stroke can be detected by DTI, which can directly quantitatively reflect the degree and extent of axonal degeneration of central motor neurons and can compensate the shortcomings of conventional MRI and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI).
2D versus 3D roadmap for uterine artery catheterization: impact on several angiographic parameters
Authors: Maleux Geert , Michielsen Koen , Timmerman Dirk , Poppe Willy , Heye Sam , Vaninbroukx Johan , Bosmans Hilde
Published: July 2013

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) roadmap is a recently developed imaging technique used to guide diagnostic and interventional catheter-directed procedures and mainly evaluated for neurovascular procedures. Few data with regard to efficacy and radiation dose are currently available in literature.

Purpose

To evaluate the use of 3D roadmap technique as compared with the conventional two-dimensional (2D) roadmap for uterine artery catheterization and embolization during uterine fibroid embolization and assess the potential impact on radiation dose, contrast load, and total procedure time.

Material and Methods

In this prospective study, 40 patients were randomly assigned to the 2D or 3D roadmap technique for uterine artery catheterization. Demographic data, specifically the patient’s age, weight, height, pelvic circumference, and total uterine and fibroid volume were recorded. Exposure parameters, contrast load, and procedure time were recorded and organ doses for ovaries and uterus were calculated.

Results

Demographic data did not differ between the groups. Catheterization and embolization of both uterine arteries were feasible in all patients, although in one patient in the 3D group, a focal dissection of the proximal uterine artery occurred. No significant difference in estimated ovarian dose was found in the 3D versus 2D group ( P = 0.07). Total procedure time was shorter in the 2D group ( P = 0.01) and no difference in total contrast load was seen ( P = 0.17).

Conclusion

Both roadmap techniques are effective imaging-guided tools for uterine artery catheterization, without difference in terms of radiation exposure or contrast load. The total procedure time is shorter in the 2D group.
Radial MRI during free breathing in contrast-enhanced hepatobiliary phase imaging
Authors: Gomi Tatsuya , Nagamoto Masahashi , Hasegawa Makoto , Tabata Akiko , Iwasaki Mikiko , Ooka Minako , Murata Nozomu , Tsunoo Mika , Iizuka Yuo , Kohda Ehiichi , Shiraga Nobuyuki
Published: July 2013

Background

Use of gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA) for diagnosis of hepatic tumors has been previously reported. Fat-saturated 3D T1-weighted gradient echo sequence (TIGRE) imaging using a breath-hold technique is usually used for dynamic studies and hepatobiliary phase Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In cases where the patient has difficulty holding their breath, this scanning method can be difficult.

Purpose

To investigate the usefulness of a fat-saturated T1-weighted spin-echo (SE) sequence using a radial read-out (radial acquisition regime-SE, RADAR-SE) during free breathing for hepatobiliary phase Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI.

Material and Methods

Images were acquired at 1.5 T. First, a phantom with diluted Gd-EOB-DTPA was scanned using the TIGRE sequence and the RADAR-SE sequence. Contrast ratios of the sequences were compared. Next, the hepatobiliary phase was imaged in 62 patients using the TIGRE sequence with breath-hold and the RADAR-SE during free breathing. Qualitative and quantitative evaluations were compared.

Results

In the phantom study, RADAR-SE had a higher contrast ratio than TIGRE. In the clinical study, artifacts were more conspicuous in RADAR-SE compared to TIGRE images in the qualitative evaluation. However, RADAR-SE images were equal to or better than TIGRE images in patients who had difficulty holding their breath. The signal intensity ratio of the liver was statistically higher using RADAR-SE than TIGRE.

Conclusion

RADAR-SE can be useful for hepatobiliary phase Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI in patients who have difficulty holding their breath.
Advances in pediatric oncology MRI
Authors: Olsen Øystein E
Published: July 2013

Refined stratification of disease is thought to result in better survival from childhood malignant disease while minimizing the adverse effects of anticancer therapies. There is a potential for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to contribute to such stratification by improved tissue characterization, anatomical depiction, staging, and assessment of early treatment response. Recent advances in pediatric MRI outside the central nervous system (CNS) are reviewed in this context. The focus is on new applications for conventional MRI and on clinical implementation of tissue-specific and quantitative techniques. This area is largely unexplored, and potential directions for research are indicated.
Effects of fibre content and textile structure on dynamic-mechanical and shape-memory properties of ELO/flax biocomposites
Authors: Fejős M , Karger-Kocsis J , Grishchuk S
Published: July 2013

Biocomposites were prepared using epoxidized linseed oil and flax fibre reinforcements in different assemblies. Epoxidized linseed oil was cured by two different anhydrides to check how its thermomechanical properties can be influenced. As reinforcements, nonwoven mat, twill weave and quasi-unidirectional textile fabrics with two different yarn finenesses were used. Their reinforcing effect was determined using dynamic mechanical analysis in flexure. Dynamic mechanical analysis served to determine the glass transition temperature ( Tg) also. Shape-memory properties were derived from quasi-unconstrained flexural tests performed near to the Tg of the epoxidized linseed oil and its biocomposites. Flax reinforcement reduced the Tg that was attributed to off-stoichiometry owing to chemical reaction between the hydroxyl groups of flax and anhydride hardener. The shape-memory parameters were moderate or low. They were affected by both textile content and type.
Explaining the Success or Failure of Quality Improvement Initiatives in Long-Term Care Organizations From a Dynamic Perspective
Authors: Etheridge Francis , Couturier Yves , Denis Jean-Louis , Tremblay Lucie , Tannenbaum Cara
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to better understand why change initiatives succeed or fail in long-term care organizations. Four case studies from Québec, Canada were contrasted retrospectively. A constipation and restraints program succeeded, while an incontinence and falls program failed. Successful programs were distinguished by the use of a change strategy that combined “let-it happen,” “help-it happen,” and “make-it happen” interventions to create senses of urgency, solidarity, intensity, and accumulation. These four active ingredients of the successful change strategies propelled their respective change processes forward to completion. This paper provides concrete examples of successful and unsuccessful combinations of “let-it happen,” “help-it happen,” and “make-it happen” change management interventions. Change managers (CM) can draw upon these examples to best tailor and energize change management strategies in their own organizations.
Elder Abuse in Residential Long-Term Care
Authors: Castle Nicholas , Ferguson-Rome Jamie C. , Teresi Jeanne A.
Published: July 2013

A synthesis of the last decade of literature on elder abuse in residential long-term care (i.e., Nursing Homes and Assisted Living) is discussed. Presented are definitions of abuse, theoretical and conceptual models, prevalence rates of abuse, outcomes and costs, and sources of abuse. The synthesis represents an update to the literature in the influential 2003 National Research Council report. We identify many of the same issues and concerns exist that were surfaced in this prior report. Many theoretical and conceptual models need further elaboration. Conflicting definitions of abuse are pervasive. Rates of abuse are generally inaccurate, and probably under-reported. However, we also identify progress in many areas. An increase in empirical studies that exist in this area (although very few in Assisted Living). Other forms and types of abuse have also been identified as important, such as resident-to-resident abuse. These areas are discussed, along with potential suggestions for additional research.
Comparing the Future Concerns of Early Wave Baby Boomers With the Concerns of Young-Old Adults
Authors: Adams-Price Carolyn E. , Turner Joshua J. , Warren Shane T.
Published: July 2013

Using data from a statewide needs assessment survey, this study examines and compares the self-reported future concerns of two age groups in Mississippi: Early wave Baby Boomers (age 55 to 64; n = 383) and the young-old (age 65 to 75; n = 349). Items under analysis focus on issues related to future concerns surrounding financial resources, health, and employment. Results from multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) indicate that Early wave Baby Boomers have higher levels of future concern than the young-old group in all three areas. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that the financial and employment concerns of the Baby Boomers were higher than the concerns of the older group even after subjective well-being and income were taken into account. However, age differences in health concerns disappeared after controlling for current health and well-being. These findings suggest that the financial concerns of the Baby Boomers extend to the whole cohort and not just to the most financially stressed.
“Another Day in Paradise”
Authors: Yankeelov Pamela A. , Faul Anna C. , D’Ambrosio Joseph G. , Collins Wanda L. , Gordon Barbara
Published: July 2013

This article provides the results of a photovoice project conducted with older adults affected by diabetes living in three rural counties in the southern region of the United States. Photovoice is a community-based participatory action methodology that puts the tools of research in the hands of participants. This project was an initial community engagement activity that promoted trust-building and formed part of a larger comprehensive community needs assessment. The process revealed themes of personal and community resilience focused on the daily living with diabetes, formal and informal supports, barriers to taking care of their diabetes, accessibility to fruits and vegetables, changes to food preparation and consumption, and exercise supports and barriers. The impact of the photovoice project on the participants and the implications for practice are discussed.
Use of Complementary Therapies for Health Promotion Among Older Adults
Authors: Arcury Thomas A. , Nguyen Ha T. , Sandberg Joanne C. , Neiberg Rebecca H. , Altizer Kathryn P. , Bell Ronny A. , Grzywacz Joseph G. , Lang Wei , Quandt Sara A.
Published: July 2013

This article describes the types of complementary therapies used by older adults for health promotion, and delineates the predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with their use. One-hundred ninety-five African American and White participants (age 65+) completed a baseline interview and up to six sets of three daily follow-up interviews at monthly intervals. Complementary therapies for health promotion included home remedies, specific foods or beverages, herbs, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, prayer, exercise, and being active. Although gender, ethnicity, education, and trust in doctors were associated with the use of complementary therapies for health promotion, health information seeking was the predisposing factor most often associated. The enabling factors were also associated with their use. Health information seeking, which reflects a wellness lifestyle, had the most consistent associations with complementary therapy use for health promotion. This health self-management for health promotion may have positive effects on future medical expenditures.
The Case of the Missing Childhoods
Authors: Dyson Anne Haas
Published: July 2013

Writing studies has been an intellectual playground dominated by the “big kids.” If we are to understand how writing becomes “relevant” to children as children, then we must study them, not for who they are becoming, but for who they are in life spaces shared with other children. This essay on the methodology entailed in studying writing in young school children’s worlds rests on a cultural studies perspective on childhoods and plays with a sociocultural perspective on literacy development. The methodological challenges entail (a) researcher positionality that allows a dynamic, multilayered view of classroom contexts; (b) data collection decisions allowing one to trace the trajectories of official and unofficial (child-controlled) communicative practices and their interplay; (c) a socially embedded view of the semiotics and functionality of literacy; and (d) a global consciousness that constrains a long-standing rush to generalization based on observational studies of Western, often privileged children.
Oxidant and Antioxidant Status in Children With Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis
Authors: Çaksen Hüseyin , Özkan Mustafa , Cemek Mustafa , Cemek Fatma
Published: July 2013

We analyzed serum alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene, retinol, and ascorbic acid levels and malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione concentrations on erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid in 30 patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis to evaluate oxidant and antioxidant status. Serum alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene, retinol, ascorbic acid levels, and erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid reduced glutathione concentrations were decreased; however, erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde levels were increased in the patients. Cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde levels were different between clinical stages of the disease ( P < .05). Higher cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde level was associated with the more severe clinical stage. A positive correlation was found between cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde level and clinical stages ( r = 0.42; P < .05) and between erythrocyte malondialdehyde level and clinical stages ( r = 0.40; P < .05). Our findings showed presence of oxidative damage in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis and that antioxidants were increased as defense mechanisms of the organism against oxidative damage.
Disseminated Encephalomyelitis-Like Central Nervous System Neoplasm in Childhood
Authors: Zhao Jianhui , Bao Xinhua , Fu Na , Ye Jintang , Li Ting , Yuan Yun , Zhang Chunyu , Zhang Yao , Zhang Yuehua , Qin Jiong , Wu Xiru
Published: July 2013

A malignant neoplasm in the central nervous system with diffuse white matter changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is rare in children. It could be misdiagnosed as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. This report presents our experience based on 4 patients (3 male, 1 female; aged 7-13 years) whose MRI showed diffuse lesions in white matter and who were initially diagnosed with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. All of the patients received corticosteroid therapy. After brain biopsy, the patients were diagnosed with gliomatosis cerebri, primitive neuroectodermal tumor and central nervous system lymphoma. We also provide literature reviews and discuss the differentiation of central nervous system neoplasm from acute disseminated encephalomyelitis.
Resurgence of Textile-Making in Contemporary Korean Culture
Authors: Hahn Kim H. Y. , Collier Ann Futterman , Chyu Ree
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate patterns and reasons for textile-making in women from non-Western culture, Korea, as well as to examine how these patterns and reasons reflected generational differences. Singelis's (1994) self-construal model was used to study values; Collier's (2011) survey was used to investigate patterns and reasons for making textile handcrafts. A total of 365 Korean participants completed the survey: 28% of the participants were young adults (18–25 years old), 42% were middle adults (26–45 years old), and 30% were older adults (46–97 years old). The results confirmed significant differences in the self-construals for different generations of Korean women. Older adults had the highest interdependence scores, followed by the middle adults; the young adults had the lowest scores. Significantly different patterns and reasons among the three Korean groups were also consistent with these results. By demonstrating significantly different patterns and reasons for textile-making between three generations in Korean culture, this study offers a unique contribution to the understanding of the resurgence of textile-making today.
Rediscovering the Mediterranean Characteristics of the Croatian Media System
Authors: Peruško Zrinjka
Published: July 2013

The article presents the analysis of the Croatian post-socialist media system within the comparative framework of Hallin and Mancini’s approach. The media system and the political system are analyzed with the cluster of variables, interpreting the development of the media market, political parallelism, journalistic professionalism, and the role of the state in relation to the existing theoretical framework. The paper demonstrates a perfect fit with the Mediterranean polarized pluralist model of media system, and argues that the Croatian case disproves the proposition that Hallin and Mancini’s model cannot be applied to new democracies in post-communist Europe. The communist period in Croatia provided nuance to an already existing framework of media system, while the post-communist transition after 1990 and ensuing democracy continue to exhibit the historically determined relationships between politics and the media. The article argues in conclusion that ignorance of the true nature of media systems and social and political frameworks that shape them are the reason for the failed internationally assisted democratization processes and successful implementation of foreign media regulation models.
How Bosnia Changed Paddy
Authors: May Jonathan
Published: July 2013

As parliamentarian during the Bosnian war, witness at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, and finally as politician with considerable executive power in the role of High Representative, the length and multifaceted nature of Paddy Ashdown’s interaction with Bosnia and Herzegovina is atypical. This rarity provides a unique opportunity to examine the factors that influence a politician’s views and understanding of a foreign country and examine how and why they oscillate and develop over time. By first identifying the preconceptions and misjudgements which Ashdown entered the realm of the Bosnian war with in 1992, this paper examines the aforementioned stages in Ashdown’s interactions with the country and subsequently provides a political evolution of his views from 1991 to 2006.
Longer Term Effects of Total Knee Arthroplasty From a National Longitudinal Study
Authors: Sloan Frank A. , George Linda K. , Hu Linyan
Published: July 2013

Objective: This study used data for 1996-2010 from a U.S. longitudinal sample of elderly individuals from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) merged with Medicare claims data to assess changes in several dimensions of physical functioning and general health up to 68 months following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) receipt. Method: Using propensity score matching, we assessed outcomes at follow-up for Medicare beneficiaries receiving TKA and a comparable group of beneficiaries with the same osteoarthritis diagnoses (controls). Results: Receipt of TKA was most often associated with improvements in physical functioning, especially in physical functioning measures most directly related to the knee. General health of TKA recipients only improved relative to controls on 1 of the 3 study general health measures. Discussion: Improvements in physical functioning of TKA recipients persisted in this longer term analysis of outcome in a nationally representative population study.
Health Impacts of Caregiving for Older Adults With Functional Limitations
Authors: Chan Angelique , Malhotra Chetna , Malhotra Rahul , Rush Augustus John , Østbye Truls
Published: July 2013

Objectives: To estimate the health impact, in terms of depression, self-rated health, and health services utilization, of providing care to older adults (75+) requiring human assistance in at least one activity of daily living (ADL) limitation. Method: Data from 1,077 caregivers and 318 noncaregivers, interviewed in the Singapore Survey on Informal Caregiving, was used to examine differences in depressive symptoms, self-rated health, and number of outpatient visits in the last 1 month between caregivers and noncaregivers. Multivariate models for the outcomes, adjusting for characteristics of the caregiver/noncaregiver and care-recipient/potential care recipient, were run. Results: Caregivers were more depressed, had poorer self-rated health, and had a higher rate of outpatient visits in the past month compared to noncaregivers. Discussion: The study indicates the need for support services to family caregivers of older adults with ADL limitations.
Providers’ lack of knowledge about herpes zoster in HIV-infected patients is among barriers to herpes zoster vaccination
Authors: Aziz M , Kessler H , Huhn G
Published: July 2013

Summary

Identification of perceptions about herpes zoster (HZ) disease, vaccine effectiveness and safety, and vaccine recommendations may impact immunization practices of physicians for HIV-infected patients. A survey was used to quantify knowledge of HZ as well as determine physician immunization perceptions and practices. There were 272/1700 respondents (16%). Correct answers for the incidence of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection in adults and incidence of HZ in HIV-infected patients were recorded by 14% and 10% of providers, respectively. Providers reported poor knowledge of the incidence of disease recurrence in HIV-infected patients (41% correct), potency of HZ vaccine (47.5% correct) and mechanism of protection against reactivation of VZV (66% correct). Most (88%) agreed that HZ was a serious disease, and 73% believed that the burden of disease made vaccination important. A majority (75%) did not vaccinate HIV patients with HZ vaccine regardless of antiretroviral therapy status. Barriers to administration included safety concerns, concern that vaccine would not prevent HZ, risk of HZ dissemination, reimbursement issues and lack of Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidelines. Only 38% of providers agreed that CDC guidelines were clear and 50% believed that clinical trials were needed prior to use of HZ vaccine in HIV-infected patients. Education about HZ is needed among HIV providers. Providers perceived vaccination as important, but data on vaccine safety and clear guidance from the CDC on this issue are lacking.
Factors affecting antiretroviral therapy adherence among HIV-positive pregnant and postpartum women: an adapted systematic review
Authors: Vitalis D
Published: July 2013

Summary

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for effective treatment, but can be quite complex. Non-adherence can adversely affect treatment outcomes. Although many studies have been done on adherence in the general population, few have included HIV-positive pregnant and postpartum women in resource-constrained settings. This review assessed the evidence on adherence among these groups of women. A systematic search of databases was completed between June and July 2011. Both qualitative and quantitative studies were included. Eighteen studies from a total of 6622 satisfied the inclusion criteria that included inter alia facilitators and barriers to adherence. This review highlighted that there is still no consensus on the definition and measurement of adherence; also multiple factors can affect a woman's ability to adhere to ART. Some of the barriers and facilitators identified were similar in both the type of study (qualitative and quantitative) and among the various countries. Findings indicated that the few studies in this population are conducted primarily in resource-rich settings. Such paucity of information warrants urgent attention; thus targeted research is needed to provide insight on adherence within this population.
Use of the UriSwab collection device for testing of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae: implications for a postal testing service
Authors: McNicol J , Debattista J
Published: July 2013

Summary

In order to demonstrate the reliability of UriSwab, a trial was conducted using urine samples that had previously returned a detected result for Chlamydia trachomatis and/or Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Urine specimens (115 samples) were received from sexual health clinics and tested using the Roche Cobas 4800 CT/NG method. Concurrently, the urine samples were pipetted directly on to the sponge applicator of the UriSwab, simulating micturition, and the urine harvested from the UriSwab was tested using the Roche Cobas 4800 method. Of the 87 standard urine specimens that were C. trachomatis detected, 85 (98%) were also detected in the corresponding UriSwab specimen (sensitivity 97.7%, specificity 95.7%). Of the 34 standard specimens that were N. gonorrhoeae detected, 33 (97%) were also detected in the corresponding UriSwab specimen (sensitivity 97.1%, specificity 100%). The performance of the UriSwab in this trial was comparable with the testing of neat first-catch urine specimens for both C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae.
Use of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to determine the prevalence of alcohol misuse among HIV-infected individuals
Authors: Surah S , Kieran J , O'Dea S , Shiel C , Raffee S , Mulcahy F , Keenan E , Lyons F
Published: July 2013

Summary

The aim of the paper is to evaluate alcohol misuse among an inner city adult HIV clinic population with AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test). A cross-sectional HIV outpatient clinic analysis between 28 February 2011 and 11 March 2011 was carried out. AUDIT, demographic and clinical data were collected. Univariate analysis was performed to look for the associations between variables. Backward stepwise multivariate analyses were performed on significant variables from the univariate analysis to assess for predictors of alcohol dependence. In total, 111 patients were included (60% uptake of clinic attendees); 66% were men and 26% were hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infected. The median AUDIT score was 5 (within normal range). Thirty-four ‘AUDIT positive’ cases were identified: five (4.5%) indicated consumption of hazardous levels of alcohol; 21 (19%) indicated harmful levels of alcohol; and eight (7%) were likely alcohol dependent. Younger age (<40 years old) was significantly associated with AUDIT positivity ( P = 0.006). On multivariate analysis younger age ( P = 0.045, odds ratio 13.8) and lower level of education ( P = 0.006, odds ratio 6.7) were predictive of scores indicative of alcohol dependence (AUDIT ≥20). In conclusion, younger age and lower educational levels were associated with scores consistent with alcohol dependence. AUDIT was well tolerated and easy to administer in this outpatient HIV clinic population.
Factors associated with acceptability of circumcision among male drug users in western China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang J , Jiang J , Abdullah A S , Yang X , Wei B , Deng W , Qin B , Upur H , Zhong C , Wang Q , Wang Q , Ruan Y , Zou Y , Ye L , Xie P , Wei F , Xu N , Liang H
Published: July 2013

This study is aimed to investigate whether male circumcision (MC) is feasible among IDUs in China. 1304 drug users who attended methadone maintenance therapy clinics in Guangxi, Chongqing and Xinjiang were selected for participation by using convenience sampling, and completed a self-administered questionnaire. The factors associated with the acceptability of MC were examined via multiple logistic regression models. 45.2% (589/1304) of the participants reported an acceptance of MC. Many of the participants who were initially not willing to accept MC (715/1304) had changed their mind when they were informed that MC would reduce the risk of HIV and STDs (43.4%; 310/715), that MC is associated with few surgery-related complications (23.1%; 165/715), that the surgical procedure could be arranged free of charge (20.1%, 144/715). In the multivariate analysis, higher acceptability of MC was associated with knowledge of the hazards of phimosis (OR=2.22), the presence of phimosis (OR=14.87), and knowledge that MC can prevent AIDS and STDs (OR=1.49); while lower acceptability was associated with residing in Chongqing province (OR=0.41) and an educational level of junior (OR=0.64) and senior high (OR=0.63) school. The MC policy targeting IDUs in China should take into account these factors associated with MC acceptability.
Human papillomavirus genotypes in genital warts in Latin America: a cross-sectional study in Bogota, Colombia
Authors: Hernandez-Suarez G , Pineros M , Vargas J C , Orjuela L , Hernandez F , Peroza C , Torres D , Escobar A , Perez G
Published: July 2013

Summary

Epidemiological studies on benign lesions related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are scarce in Latin America. We enrolled 342 consecutive patients with lesions suspected of being genital warts (GW). All patients underwent confirmatory biopsy and GP5+/GP6+/− Reverse Line Blot HPV testing on frozen tissue. In 261 (81%) cases, the diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology and HPV was detected in 90.6% of men and 87.7% of women. HPV 6 was by far the most common type in both women (62%) and men (56%), followed by HPV 11 (∼20%). Co-infection with these two types occurred in 7% and 12% of women and men, respectively. HPV16 ranked third in prevalence, with 16% of patients testing positive. Twenty-five percent of cases tested positive for multiple HPV genotypes. Although HPV 6 and HPV 11 were the main types detected and no differences between men and women were observed, we found HPV 11 contributed more to GW aetiology compared with previous reports, showing a variability of HPV type distribution in GW across populations. This information is valuable baseline data in Latin America for future estimations of the burden of GW in men and women and shows the potential benefit obtainable by prophylactic vaccination against HPV types 6 and 11.
The 2012 International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infections European Collaborative Clinical Group report on the diagnosis and management of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections in Europe
Authors: Brooks B , Patel R ,   The European Collaborative Clinical Group (ECCG)
Published: July 2013

Summary

The European Collaborative Clinical Group (ECCG) was inaugurated at the 26th International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infections (IUSTI) Congress in Riga, Latvia 2011. The ECCG is a network of over 100 sexually transmitted infection specialists who have come together to conduct questionnaire-based research across the European region. It is expected that this work will focus and direct guideline development. A central core group of the ECCG has also been established who are responsible for identifying suitable survey questions that will be carried out but only after approval by the full ECCG Board. The ECCG aims to conduct a maximum of two projects per year which will be presented at the annual regional congresses and published as appropriate.