bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microenvironmental changes in breast tumor progression: genetic or epigenetic?.
Authors: Polyak K , Hu M , Shipitsin M
Published: December 2010

Abstract #PD-1

Increasing evidence suggests that changes in the cellular microenvironment contribute to tumorigenesis, but the molecular basis of these alterations is not well understood. We have characterized molecular alterations that occur during breast tumor progression in each cell type that compose normal breast tissue and in situ (DCIS-ductal Carcinoma In Situ) and invasive breast carcinomas using SAGE (Serial Analysis of Gene Expression) for gene expression profiling, SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) arrays and array CGH (Comprehensive Genomic Hybridization) for analyzing genetic changes, and MSDK (Methylation Specific Digital Karyotyping) for the characterization of DNA methylation profiles. Using these approaches we determined that gene expression and epigenetic changes occur in all cell types during breast tumor progression, whereas clonally selected genetic alterations are limited to tumor epithelial cells. We also determined that dramatic changes occur in the normal to DCIS transition, while we were not able to identify distinct in situ and invasive carcinoma molecular signatures. These findings suggest that the progression of in situ to invasive carcinoma may be influenced by non-epithelial cells composing the microenvironment.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr PD-1.
Using faecal samples in lizard dietary studies
Authors: Pérez-Mellado Valentín , Pérez-Cembranos Ana , Garrido Mario , Luiselli Luca , Corti Claudia
Published: December 2010

While the use of faecal pellets is widely accepted as a primary
methodological source of data for dietary studies, a recent paper advocated
for the use of gut contents. This was due to the fact that faecal samples
would give biased results of the diet of arthropod predators, due to a lower
representation of soft-bodied prey in faecal pellets. To test this
assumption, we compared the spring diet of several populations of two
insular lizards from the Balearic Islands (Spain), Podarcis lilfordi and
Podarcis pityusensis, using both faecal pellets and gut contents. Our
results do not support the supposed bias of dietary analyses based on faecal
pellets. Indeed, soft-bodied prey and particularly insect larvae are often
equally represented in faecal pellets and gut contents. Alternatively, soft
bodied prey are represented in different proportions in gut contents and
faecal pellets, but in some cases with higher proportions being observed in
the gut contents, and in other cases with higher proportions in faecal
samples. We conclude that faecal pellets can be a reliable source of
information for dietary studies.
Is body shape of mangrove-dwelling monitor lizards (Varanus indicus; Varanidae) sexually dimorphic?
Authors: Frýdlová Petra , Velenský Petr , Šimková Olga , Cikánová Veronika , Hnízdo Jan , Rehák Ivan , Frynta Daniel
Published: December 2010

In monitor lizards, males are typically larger than conspecific females, but
body shape is usually quite similar in both sexes. This not only represents
a puzzle worthy of evolutionary explanation, but also makes field sex
determination of monitor lizards difficult. We asked whether subtle
differences in body shape follow the same pattern as in other sexually
dimorphic lizard taxa and thus can be explained by the same selective
forces. We tested the hypotheses that (1) females have a longer abdomen due
to fecundity selection and (2) males possess bigger heads due to intrasexual
selection. We also hypothesised that (3) male monitors show a wider chests
and longer upper fore-limbs to win male-male wrestling matches. We monitored
ontogeny in 35 mangrove-dwelling monitors (Varanus indicus). Seventeen body
measurements were taken every three months up to the age of 24-34 months.
Sex was determined by an ultrasonographic imaging. We employed multiple
approaches to remove the effect of size and used both confirmation and
exploratory statistics. The results revealed that sexual differences in body
shape were small and emerged after maturity. Females have a relatively
longer abdomen while males wider chest and longer upper fore-limbs. Thus,
the differences in body shape between male and female varanid lizards may be
attributed to both fecundity and sexual selection.
Weather Forecasting by Humans—Heuristics and Decision Making
Authors: Doswell Charles A.
Published: December 2010

The decision-making literature contains considerable information about how humans approach tasks involving uncertainty using heuristics. Although there is some reason to believe that weather forecasters are not identical in all respects to the typical subjects used in judgment and decision-making studies, there also is evidence that weather forecasters are not so different that the existing understanding of human cognition as it relates to making decisions is entirely inapplicable to weather forecasters. Accordingly, some aspects of cognition and decision making are reviewed and considered in terms of how they apply to human weather forecasters, including biases introduced by heuristics. Considerable insight into human forecasting could be gained by applying available studies of the cognitive psychology of decision making. What few studies exist that have used weather forecasters as subjects suggest that further work might well be productive in terms of helping to guide the improvement of weather forecasts by humans. It is concluded that a multidisciplinary approach, involving disciplines outside of meteorology, needs to be developed and supported if there is to be a future role for humans in forecasting the weather.
Derald Wing Sue: From All of the Places We’ve Been
Authors: Parham Thomas A.
Published: December 2010

The personal and professional accomplishments of one of psychology’s most accomplished and prolific scholars are profiled in this article. Dr. Derald Wing Sue is a familiar name to many who traverse the landscape of multicultural counseling and Asian American psychology issues. Yet this article affords the reader a rare glimpse into the mindset of a contemporary figure considered by many to be a cultural icon. In chronicling a career spanning four decades, this article highlights both the challenges and opportunities Dr. Sue has managed in both the personal and professional domains of his life. Also revealed are the complexities of his psychological development as a person of Chinese American descent and how his identity crystallization serves as a conceptual template for his academic instruction, therapeutic practice, and research endeavors. The article also serves as a tribute to Dr. Sue, as voiced from the perspective of students, friends, and colleagues alike.
Active Greens
Authors: Botetzagias Iosif , van Schuur Wijbrandt
Published: December 2010

This article investigates green party members’ activism in the environmental movement and tests how a number of predictors, theoretically suggested in the past yet rarely empirically tested, can account for it. The authors’ analysis is based on an extensive data set of members of 15 green parties in 12 European countries ( N = 6,639). This article finds that members’ activism can be accounted for largely by network and identity variables, as suggested by social movements’ scholars, whereas “new social movements” theories did not adequately explain environmental activism. Thus, network or identity variables, such as past activism, membership in environmental organizations, and activism in other social movements, are significant in the multivariate model. A number of alternative models are significant alone but not when network or identity variables are added to the model: postmaterialism, a “new environmental paradigm” worldview, and political attitudes. Although age, rational choice considerations, and new middle-class placement remain statistically significant, yet—for the latter case—its effect is negative. Macro-level variables, such as the green party’s governmental experience, the country’s quality of natural environment as well as environmental policies, were also found to have statistically significant effects on activism.
Implementation of adolescent family-based substance use prevention programmes in health care settings
Authors: Aalborg Annette E , Miller Brenda A , Husson Gail , Byrnes Hilary F , Bauman Karl E , Spoth Richard L
Published: December 2010

Objective: To examine factors that influence the effectiveness and quality of implementation of evidence-based family-focused adolescent substance use prevention programmes delivered in health care settings and to assess the effects of programme choice versus programme assignment on programme delivery.

Design: Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10–14 (SFP) and Family Matters (FM) were delivered as part of a randomized longitudinal prevention study designed to assess the influence of programme choice versus assignment to programme on study recruitment, retention and adolescent substance use outcomes. Families were initially randomized to a choice (FM or SFP) or assigned study condition (FM, SFP or control group).

Setting: Families with an 11-year-old child were randomly selected from health plan membership databases of four large managed care medical centres in the San Francisco California Bay area; 494 ethnically diverse families enrolled in study programmes.

Method: A mixed-method case study was conducted to assess procedures used to maximize implementation quality and fidelity. Programme monitoring was conducted to assess differences in programme delivery for families in the choice versus assigned study condition.

Results: Programme fidelity improved over time. Families who chose FM (versus being assigned to the programme) completed the programme in a shorter period and spent more time implementing programme activities. SFP ‘choice’ families (versus assigned) attended more programme sessions.

Conclusion: Fidelity assessment data can be successfully utilized for ongoing quality improvement of programme delivery. Programme choice appears to increase family engagement in programmes. Future effectiveness trials should assess approaches to integrate evidence-based family prevention programmes with adolescent health services.
An exploratory mixed method assessment of low income, pregnant Hispanic women’s understanding of gestational diabetes and dietary change
Authors: Rhoads-Baeza Maria Elena , Reis Janet
Published: December 2010

Objective: To describe and assess low income, healthy, pregnant Hispanic women’s understanding of gestational diabetes (GDM) and willingness to change aspects of their diet.

Design: One-on-one, in-person interviews conducted in Spanish with 94 women (primarily Mexican).

Setting: Federal Qualified Community Health Center’s prenatal clinic.

Method: Exploratory two-phased mixed method with a survey of knowledge and attitudes towards gestational diabetes and dietary change, and interviews. In phase two, participants were shown a flyer with the amount of carbohydrates in tortillas and fruit juice in comparison to a candy bar and told of the importance of drinking one glass of water before each meal.

Results: Interest in having a healthy baby was high for all participants. Review of a 24-hour dietary recall identified high consumption of carbohydrates and low intake of green and leafy vegetables and water. Family involvement, especially involvement of the husband, was central to almost all the participants’ views about food purchase, preparation and consumption. In the phase two follow-up, most women tried to improve their water intake but no-one reported being able to decrease the number of tortillas eaten.

Conclusion: The overall profile of attitudes, knowledge, diet and willingness to change aspects of a diet offers additional direction on how to counsel this patient group on ways to decrease risk of GDM. Given Hispanic women’s elevated risk for GDM, small dietary changes presented in culturally relevant, straightforward messages about commonly eaten foods might result in improved health for the mother and the broader family.
People getting a grip on arthritis: A knowledge transfer strategy to empower patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Authors: Brosseau Lucie , Lineker Sydney , Bell Mary , Wells George , Casimiro Lynn , Egan Mary , Cranney Ann , Tugwell Peter , Wilson Keith G , De Angelis Gino , Loew Laurianne
Published: December 2010

Objective: The purpose of this study was twofold. First, to help people with arthritis become aware of and utilize Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) as they relate to self-management strategies. Second, to evaluate the impact of specific Knowledge Translation (KT) activities on CPG uptake. More specifically, investigators were interested in: (1) participant acquisition of knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy regarding the uptake of CPGs; (2) participant intention and actual use of CPGs; (3) whether participants trained to become educators shared new CPG knowledge with other people who have RA or OA; and (4) the effect of press media in promoting CPGs to the general public.

Methods: Workshop 1 (WS1) was delivered by a multidisciplinary faculty. Selected participants from WS1 were then trained to become educators of pertinent CPGs and deliver the same content to a second group of patients in Workshop 2 (WS2). Questionnaires to measure the four aforementioned interests in KT were administered pre- and post- workshop as well as three months post-workshop.

Results: Acquisition of new knowledge by workshop participants ( n = 49) was found for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), Tai Chi, and insoles and footwear, although not for weight management, aerobic walking, and strengthening exercises. Immediately post-workshop, participants in WS1 ( M = 7.96, SD = 1.89) and WS2 ( M = 7.16, SD = 1.46) had comparatively similar self-efficacy levels regarding symptom management. No statistically-significant changes were found for online general public participants.

Conclusion: An intensive evidence-based educational programme focused on training CPG educators appears to be an effective method of KT for patients with RA and OA. Similar KT activities would be employed again but with greater attention to use of media strategies.
It may not be what you think: Gender differences in predicting emotional and social competence
Authors: Taylor Scott N , Hood Jacqueline N
Published: December 2010

Women and men leaders have been noted to be similar in terms of emotional and social competence in the workforce. We analyzed gender differences in self-ratings, others’ ratings, and predicted ratings of men and women leaders on a multi-source feedback assessment of emotional and social competence. Findings revealed that there were significant differences between how leaders were rated on emotional and social competence versus how they predicted they would be rated. Furthermore, results indicated that when asked to predict how they were rated by their managers, direct reports, and peers, women were significantly poorer at predicting others’ ratings compared with men. However, women self-rated their demonstration of emotional and social competence similar to men. Age was investigated, but not found to have an effect on men and women’s predictions of others’ ratings. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications of the findings and areas for future research.
Not sharing but trading: Applying a Maussian exchange framework to knowledge management
Authors: Konstantinou Efrosyni , Fincham Robin
Published: December 2010

Knowledge sharing is widely regarded as the process underpinning knowledge management in organizations. The dissemination of knowledge so that all benefit from shared know-how is seen to greatly enhance working capability. Nevertheless, we suggest the sharing perspective can mean a somewhat restricted view of how knowledge workers relate to and use knowledge and that focusing on knowledge exchange affords a better understanding of the processes that prefigure sharing. In particular, we revisit a classic social exchange theory in the framework of gift relations that Mauss developed. Applying ideas of gift-giving to knowledge transfer invokes a complex economy of reciprocation and obligation taking account of a wide range of knowledge categories. Through a study of knowledge work in multinational settings, we demonstrate specific propositions consistent with a Maussian approach: knowledge reciprocity, interplay between sharing and withholding knowledge and knowledge use.
LPS Induces Greater Bone and PDL Loss in SPARC-null Mice
Authors: Trombetta-eSilva J. , Yu H. , Arias D.N. , Rossa C. , Kirkwood K.L. , Bradshaw A.D.
Published: December 2010

Individuals with periodontal disease have increased risk of tooth loss, particularly in cases with associated loss of alveolar bone and periodontal ligament (PDL). Current treatments do not predictably regenerate damaged PDL. Collagen I is the primary component of bone and PDL extracellular matrix. SPARC/Osteonectin (SP/ON) is implicated in the regulation of collagen content in healthy PDL. In this study, periodontal disease was induced by injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in wild-type (WT) and SP/ON-null C57/Bl6 mice. A 20-µg quantity of LPS was injected between the first and second molars 3 times a week for 4 weeks, whereas PBS control was injected into the contralateral maxilla. LPS injection resulted in a significant decrease in bone volume fraction in both genotypes; however, significantly greater bone loss was detected in SP/ON-null maxilla. SP/ON-null PDL exhibited more extensive degradation of connective tissue in the gingival tissues. Although total cell numbers in the PDL of SP/ON-null were not different from those in WT, the inflammatory infiltrate was reduced in SP/ON-null PDL. Histology of collagen fibers revealed marked reductions in collagen volume fraction and in thick collagen volume fraction in the PDL of SP/ON-null mice. SP/ON protects collagen content in PDL and in alveolar bone in experimental periodontal disease.
School Size, Social Capital, and Student Victimization
Authors: Gottfredson Denise C. , DiPietro Stephanie M.
Published: December 2010

This study assesses the effects of three aspects of school organization—student enrollment, student-teacher ratio, and the number of different students taught—on the property and personal victimization experiences of students. It hypothesizes that smaller schools, schools with lower ratios of students to adults, and schools in which the number of different students taught by the typical teacher is lower will produce less victimization because of the increased social capital to which students in these schools are exposed. Using data from the National Study of Delinquency Prevention in Schools, the authors find that, net of individual-level risk factors and confounding characteristics of schools and their surrounding communities, each of the three aspects of school organization is related to student victimization but that these effects vary across victimization type. Their research suggests that reducing the ratio of students to teachers and reducing the number of different students taught by the average teacher are likely to reduce student victimization. Reducing school size is not. The authors also find evidence that higher levels of social capital, as measured by student consensus about normative beliefs, partially mediate the effects of student-teacher ratio on personal victimization.
Parental Involvement and Students’ Cognitive Outcomes in Korea
Authors: Park Hyunjoon , Byun Soo-yong , Kim Kyung-keun
Published: December 2010

Studies of parental involvement and children’s education in a variety of contexts can provide valuable insights into how the relationships between parental involvement and student outcomes depend upon specific local contexts of family and education. Korean education is distinctive with its high prevalence of private tutoring, which not only imposes an economic burden on parents but also requires parents’ time and efforts to select the best kind of private tutoring for their children and to keep track of their academic progress by interacting with private tutors. Here, data from a longitudinal survey in Korea that has traced 7th-graders for two years were used to investigate the determinants and the effects of parents’ private tutoring–related activities in comparison to other types of home-based and school-based parental involvement. Multivariate analysis shows that parents’ efforts in selecting and monitoring private tutoring are significantly associated with increased math and English test scores. Features of Korean education in which private tutoring becomes an important strategy for parents to enhance children’s education are described, and the broader implications of the findings, beyond the local context, are discussed.
Unpacking Design Practices
Authors: Storni Cristiano
Published: December 2010

The aim of this work is to provide a way to investigate design practices that allows a focus on the movements and the transformations that lie behind designed products, which usually lose contact with their own original conditions of design and production. Through a detailed analysis of the design of a new artifact (a piece of jewelry) and in contrast with reductionist accounts of design practices, the notion of thing is introduced in a twofold meaning: a gathering of different elements and a problematic issue in process of definition. In investigating the relationship between these two folds lying behind the making of a new artifact, two underlying logics and tendencies are individualized and discussed in detail. These are objectifying and thinging tendencies. A discussion of how the proposed framework contribute to design studies and practices is offered in the conclusion.
Surveying Ourselves
Authors: Matteson Kristen A. , Anderson Britta L. , Pinto Stephanie B. , Lopes Vrishali , Schulkin Jay , Clark Melissa A.
Published: December 2010

A survey was distributed, using a sequential mixed-mode approach, to a national sample of obstetrician–gynecologists. Differences between responses to the web-based mode and the on-paper mode were compared to determine if there were systematic differences between respondents. Only two differences in respondents between the two modes were identified. University-based physicians were more likely to complete the web-based mode than private practice physicians. Mail respondents reported a greater volume of endometrial ablations compared to online respondents. The web-based mode had better data quality than the paper-based mailed mode in terms of less missing and inappropriate responses. Together, these findings suggest that, although a few differences were identified, the web-based survey mode attained adequate representativeness and improved data quality. Given the metrics examined for this study, exclusive use of web-based data collection may be appropriate for physician surveys with a minimal reduction in sample coverage and without a reduction in data quality.
Variables Predictive of Bilateral Occult Papillary Microcarcinoma Following Total Thyroidectomy
Authors: Connor Matt P. , Wells David , Schmalbach Cecelia E.
Published: December 2010

Objective

To investigate risk factors associated with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTM) involving the thyroid lobes bilaterally at the time of diagnosis. In doing so, the authors hope to identify a subset of PTM patients who may benefit from more aggressive surgical intervention with a total thyroidectomy.

Study Design

A prospective cohort study of all newly diagnosed, previously untreated PTM patients presenting between 1998 and 2008.

Setting

Tertiary care military hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Following total thyroidectomy, patients were grouped according to unilateral versus bilateral PTM thyroid lobe involvement. The primary outcome variable was PTM in both thyroid lobes. Independent variables of interest included patient demographics, tumor stage, nodule size, tumor focus size, and tumor focality. Univariate analysis was used to investigate risk factors associated with bilateral lobe PTM.

Results

Five of 25 (20%) patients had bilateral thyroid lobe PTM at presentation. There was no statistically significant difference between the unilateral versus bilateral groups with respect to age, gender, history, stage, and tumor size. Bilateral thyroid lobe PTM occurred significantly more often in the setting of multifocal PTM (4/7, 57%) versus unifocal PTM (1/18 cases, 5.6%; P =. 012). The odds ratio of harboring occult PTM in the contralateral lobe at time of diagnosis in the setting of multifocal PTM was 23 times greater than the unifocal counterpart (95% confidence interval, 1.9‐27.9).

Conclusion

Multifocal PTM is a significant risk factor associated with bilateral thyroid lobe involvement at presentation. Surgeons are justified and encouraged to offer multifocal PTM patients completion thyroidectomy as part of their oncologic treatment.
Vestibular‐Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Migrainous Vertigo
Authors: Hong Seok Min , Kim Seung Kyun , Park Chan Hum , Lee Jun Ho
Published: December 2010

Objective

Patients with migraine headaches have a high prevalence of episodic vertigo, and several studies support the clinical association of migraine and vertigo. Various tests have been conducted in patients with migrainous vertigo; however, only a few studies have been reported on otolith function. The aim of the present study was to increase the understanding of migrainous vertigo pathophysiology by assessing the sacculocollic pathway in patients with migrainous vertigo using vestibular‐evoked myogenic potentials testing (VEMPs).

Study Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

VEMP testing was performed in 30 patients with migrainous vertigo and 31 healthy volunteers using 90‐ and 100‐dB tone‐pip stimuli. We compared hearing, p13 and n23 latency, VEMP asymmetry, and VEMP formation rate between the patient and control groups.

Results

No between‐group difference was observed in p13 and n23 latency or VEMP asymmetry. The rate of normal VEMP wave formation in both ears was significantly lower in the patient group compared with that of the control group in response to the 90‐dB stimulus. Furthermore, VEMP wave formation was absent in both ears at 100 dB in significantly more patients than in control subjects.

Conclusion

The results indicate that patients with migrainous vertigo show abnormal VEMP findings, suggesting that migrainous vertigo might have a lesion at the sacculocollic pathway.
Ultrasonic Shears in Free‐Tissue Transfer
Authors: Koch Cody A. , Olsen Steven M. , Martin Eliot J. , Moore Eric J.
Published: December 2010

Objective

The harvest of some microvascular free flaps for head and neck reconstruction entails tedious and time‐consuming dissection of multiple perforating vessels and/or muscular attachments. The objective of this study is to investigate the use of ultrasonic shears as a means to decrease operative time and increase surgical efficiency in the harvest of microvascular free flaps.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

A prospective study of all people undergoing fibula (FFF) or anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap reconstruction of head and neck defects was conducted from October 1, 2005, through December 30, 2009.

Results

There were 69 FFF and 39 ALT free flaps performed by a single surgeon during the study period. Ultrasonic shears were used in 53 (76.8%) FFF and 26 (80.6%) ALT free flaps, whereas traditional dissection techniques were used in 16 (23.2%) FFF and 13 (19.4%) ALT free flaps. The use of ultrasonic shears significantly decreased the harvest time of FFF and ALT free flaps an average of 14.5 and 16.3 minutes, respectively. The average cost savings associated with the use of ultrasonic shears was $492 for FFF and $543 for ALT free flaps compared to traditional dissections techniques. Similar rates of complications were observed when ultrasonic shears were used compared to traditional techniques.

Conclusions

The use of ultrasonic shears in the harvest of microvascular free flaps decreases operative time, leading to significantly decreased costs without an increased risk of complications compared to traditional dissection techniques.
Just say ‘‘no thanks’’: Romantic rejection in computer-mediated communication
Authors: Tom Tong Stephanie , Walther Joseph B.
Published: December 2010

This research examined how certain features of online date-finding systems affect the types of message strategies users generate to refuse requests for romantic dates. An experiment analyzed how 190 participants rejected a date request from a member of the opposite sex. Politeness strategies varied as a function of the relationship between the requester and rejector (acquaintance vs. stranger) and the type of media (email vs. online dating messaging service). Results illuminate effects of interface characteristics and dyads’ relationship type on date refusal messages. Online daters exploited certain communication features provided by dating website messaging services which allow new ways for romantic refusals to be performed that were not previously available in face-to-face communication or earlier forms of computer-mediated communication.
Contact and knowledge as predictors of attitudes toward individuals with intellectual disabilities
Authors: McManus Jessica L. , Feyes Kelsey J. , Saucier Donald A.
Published: December 2010

Understanding attitudes that may lead to barriers to equality can help enhance social inclusion and quality of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The current study examined multidimensional attitudes toward individuals with intellectual disabilities. We expected that those with more knowledge and greater quantity and quality of contact with people with intellectual disabilities would have more positive attitudes toward this social group. Hierarchical multiple regressions revealed that greater knowledge and quantity of contact were unrelated to attitudes. Greater quality of contact, however, was associated with more positive attitudes. These findings add support to previous findings that positive experiences may lead to less intergroup anxiety, less hostility, and less avoidance of outgroups.
The negotiation of closetable identities: A narrative analysis of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered queer Jewish identity
Authors: Faulkner Sandra L. , Hecht Michael L.
Published: December 2010

We focused on the closetable identities of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered queer (LGBTQ) Jewish Americans through the use of identity narratives. Thirty-one people participated in narrative interviews about their identity negotiation decisions. The Communication Theory of Identity framed the inquiry by showing how the interpenetrations of identity layers and critical elements created changes and conflict in participants’ lives that necessitated negotiating their LGBTQ Jewish identity. Analyses revealed conflicts related to self-perception, experiences, perceptions of others, and enactments of being LGBTQ and Jewish, many of which revolved around issues of alienation. The potential for identity gaps to emerge and produce largely negative outcomes was ever present in their lives as they sought supportive communities for one or both identity elements. This study has implications for individual and community support of multiple and stigmatized identities.
Better with age: Social relationships across adulthood
Authors: Luong Gloria , Charles Susan T. , Fingerman Karen L.
Published: December 2010

Older adults typically report higher levels of satisfaction with their social relationships than younger adults. The present paper integrates current developmental research to explain why social relationships are generally more positive with age. We discuss actions by older adults that contribute to more positive social experiences. We also include social role changes that may provide advantages for older adults when navigating their relationships. Next, we turn to interactional processes between older adults with their social partners. We review literature indicating that: (a) older adults engage in strategies that optimize positive social experiences and minimize negative ones by avoiding conflicts, and (b) social partners often reciprocate by treating older adults more positively and with greater forgiveness than they do younger adults.
Role strain and online social support for childless stepmothers
Authors: Craig Elizabeth A. , Johnson Amy J.
Published: December 2010

Using Lazarus and Folkman’s (1984) Transactional Theory of Stress, a content analysis of 62 message sets identified role strain and social supportive behaviors utilized within an online support group for childless stepmothers. The stepmothers focused on issues related to stepchild living arrangements and interference of the biological mother. Results revealed positive correlations between stepchild investment and biological mother interference, stepchild investment, informational support, stepmother frustration and esteem support. Study implications include understanding issues and relationships that impact stepmother role strain, identifying the stress reappraisal process within actual messages written online, and focusing on the use of online social support for relationship based issues.
Parenting Style as a Moderator of the Association Between Parenting Behaviors and the Weight Status of Adolescents
Authors: Wen Xu , Hui Stanley Sai-Chuen
Published: December 2010

Based on the contextual model of parenting style, this study aimed to examine whether the associations between parenting behaviors and adolescents’ dietary habits, physical activity, and weight status is moderated by parenting style. A total of 1,869 parent–adolescent dyads were recruited in southern China. The adolescents’ body mass index, dietary habits, physical activity, parenting style, parenting behaviors, and demographic information were collected. The results of this study suggest that parenting style could moderate the relationship between adolescents’ dietary habits, physical activity, weight status, and parenting behaviors. The positive relationship between parenting behavior of “restricting access to unhealthy food and youth’s sedentary behaviors” and adolescents’ dietary habits was alleviated as parents’ responsiveness increased. Furthermore, parents’ demandingness moderated the effects of “food and physical activity monitoring” on adolescents’ physical activity and weight status.
Influence of Graphic Format on Comprehension of Risk Information among American Indians
Authors: Sprague Debra , LaVallie Donna L. , Wolf Fredric M. , Jacobsen Clemma , Sayson Kirsten , Buchwald Dedra
Published: December 2010

Background. Presentation of risk information influences patients’ ability to interpret health care options. Little is known about this relationship between risk presentation and interpretation among American Indians. Methods. Three hundred American Indian employees on a western American Indian reservation were invited to complete an anonymous written survey. All surveys included a vignette presenting baseline risk information about a hypothetical cancer and possible benefits of 2 prevention plans. Risk interpretation was assessed by correct answers to 3 questions evaluating the risk reduction associated with the plans. Numeric information was the same in all surveys, but framing varied; half expressed prevention benefits in terms of relative risk reduction and half in terms of absolute risk reduction. All surveys used text to describe the benefits of the 2 plans, but half included a graphic image. Surveys were distributed randomly. Responses were analyzed using binary logistic regression with the robust variance estimator to account for clustering of outcomes within participant. Results. Use of a graphic image was associated with higher odds of correctly answering 3 risk interpretation questions (odds ratio = 2.5, 95% confidence interval = 1.5–4.0, P < 0.001) compared to the text-only format. These findings were similar to those of previous studies carried out in the general population. Neither framing information as relative compared to absolute risk nor the interaction between graphic image and relative risk presentation was associated with risk interpretation. Conclusion. One type of graphic image was associated with increased understanding of risk in a small sample of American Indian adults. The authors recommend further investigation of the effectiveness of other types of graphic displays for conveying health risk information to this population.
Deceiving Numbers
Authors: Wegwarth Odette , Gaissmaier Wolfgang , Gigerenzer Gerd
Published: December 2010

Background. Increased 5-y survival for screened patients is often inferred to mean that fewer patients die of cancer. However, due to several biases, the 5-y survival rate is a misleading metric for evaluating a screening’s effectiveness. If physicians are not aware of these issues, informed screening counseling cannot take place. Methods. Two questionnaire versions (“group” and “time”) presented 4 conditions: 5-y survival (5Y), 5-y survival and annual disease-specific mortality (5YM), annual disease-specific mortality (M), and 5-y survival, annual disease-specific mortality, and incidence (5YMI). Questionnaire version “time” presented data as a comparison between 2 time points and version “group” as a comparison between a screened and an unscreened group. All data were based on statistics for the same cancer site (prostate). Outcome variables were the recommendation of screening, reasoning behind recommendation, judgment of the screening’s effectiveness, and, if judged effective, a numerical estimate of how many fewer people out of 1000 would die if screened regularly. After randomized allocation, 65 German physicians in internal medicine and its subspecialities completed either of the 2 questionnaire versions. Results. Across both versions, 66% of the physicians recommended screening when presented with 5Y, but only 8% of the same physicians made the recommendation when presented with M (5YM: 31%; 5YMI: 55%). Also, 5Y made considerably more physicians (78%) judge the screening to be effective than any other condition (5YM: 31%; M: 5%; 5YMI: 49%) and led to the highest overestimations of benefit. Conclusion. A large number of physicians erroneously based their screening recommendation and judgment of screening’s effectiveness on the 5-y survival rate. Results show that reporting disease-specificmortality rates can offer a simple solution to physicians’ confusion about the real effect of screening.
Informing Patients
Authors: Peters Ellen , Hart P. Sol , Fraenkel Liana
Published: December 2010

Background. Given the importance of effective patient communication, findings about influences on risk perception in nonmedical domains need replication in medical domains. Objective. To examine whether numeracy influences risk perceptions when different information frames and number formats are used to present medication risks. Methods. The authors manipulated the frame and number format of risk information in a 3 (frame: positive, negative, combined) × 2 (number format: frequency, percentage) design. Participants from an Internet sample ( N = 298), randomly assigned to condition, responded to a single, hypothetical scenario. The main effects and interactions of numeracy, framing, and number format on risk perception were measured. Results. Participants given the positive frame perceived the medication as less risky than those given the negative frame. Mean risk perceptions for the combined frame fell between the positive and negative frames. Numeracy did not moderate these framing effects. Risk perceptions also varied by number format and numeracy, with less-numerate participants given risk information in a percentage format perceiving the medication as less risky than when given risk information in a frequency format; highly numerate participants perceived similar risks in both formats. The generalizability of the findings is limited due to the use of non-patients, presented a hypothetical scenario. Given the design, one cannot know whether observed differences would translate into clinically significant differences in patient behaviors. Conclusions. Frequency formats appear to increase risk perceptions over percentage formats for less-numerate respondents. Health communicators need to be aware that different formats generate different risk perceptions among patients varying in numeracy.
The Connections Between Latino Ethnic Identity and Adult Experiences
Authors: Torres Vasti , Martinez Sylvia , Wallace Lisa D. , Medrano Christianne I. , Robledo Andrea L. , Hernandez Ebelia
Published: December 2010

This study considers the influence of adult experiences on the development of Latino ethnic identity. Using purposeful and snowball sampling, adult participants responded to open-ended questions about their understanding of being Latino. Analysis indicated that changes in the environment or life circumstances had the greatest effect on the reevaluation of identity. This process, referred to as looping, occurred in 35% of the adults surveyed and illustrates the process that occurs when an individual questions previous understanding of identity yet does not lose his/her previous sense of committed self. In addition, the study found that adults who self-identify as having a bicultural orientation were more likely to experience a looping effect, though some Latino-oriented individuals also experienced this effect.
Sensorless Control of SMA-based Actuators Using Neural Networks
Authors: Asua Estibalitz , Feutchwanger Jorge , García-Arribas Alfredo , Etxebarria Victor
Published: December 2010

The ability of shape memory alloys (SMA) to respond to an external stimulus by modifying their dimensions can be used to generate motion or force in electromechanical devices and micro-machines. It has been often demonstrated that SMA-based devices are serious alternatives to conventional micrometric actuators. We have previously demonstrated that, using a high-quality position sensor, such as a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), to provide the position feedback, accuracies about 3 μm in position control can be obtained. In this work, we present an actuator prototype based in a SMA wire, conceived to be used in lightweight applications, where the bulky position sensor previously used is replaced with a lighter alternative. The most convenient one, and also the most challenging, is to use the wire’s own resistance as a measure of its position, that is, to implement a sensorless control strategy. We propose to use a neural network to characterize the relation between the resistance of the wire and its strain and introduce this correspondence as the position feedback in a simple PID closed loop. The experimental results show that, in this way, accuracies about 70 μm can be obtained. The great advantage of this procedure is that the actuator is reduced to a single SMA element without any additional sensor, which is of great importance when the main goals are to reduce the overall weight, size, and cost of the actuator.
Caregiver Evaluation in Hospice
Authors: Andruccioli Jessica , Russo Maria Maffia , Bruschi Angela , Pedrabissi Luigi , Sarti Donatella , Monterubbianesi Maria Cristina , Rossi Sabina , Rocconi Sabina , Raffaeli William
Published: December 2010

In this study we report the results of construction and administration of a semi-structured interview for the evaluation of caregivers in hospice. The results presented here are related to interviews (n = 25) that were administered at Rimini Hospice. According to the interview coding system, it was possible to identify thematic areas of the interviews where the caregiver’s distress was mainly concentrated. As concerning the care burden, greater distress was detected in areas relating to the change in the rhythm of life (38%) and in social network (26%); whereas, as concerning the psychological burden, a greater distress was detected in the area related to the caregiver role (51%). In conclusion, a singular element identified as a source of distress in, our study, is that of social network.
Trace-based performance analysis for the petascale simulation code FLASH
Authors: Jagode Heike , Knüpfer Andreas , Dongarra Jack , Jurenz Matthias , Müller Matthias S , Nagel Wolfgang E
Published: December 2010

Performance analysis of applications on modern high-end petascale systems is increasingly challenging due to the rising complexity and quantity of the computing units. This paper presents a performance-analysis study using the Vampir performance-analysis tool suite, which examines application behavior as well as the fundamental system properties. This study was carried out on the Jaguar system at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the fastest computer on the November 2009 Top500 list. We analyzed the FLASH simulation code that is designed to be scaled with tens of thousands of CPU cores, which means that using existing performance-analysis tools is very complex. The study reveals two classes of performance problems that are relevant for very high CPU counts: MPI communication and scalable I/O. For both, solutions are presented and verified. Finally, the paper proposes improvements and extensions for event tracing tools in order to allow scalability of the tools towards higher degrees of parallelism.
Understanding Evaluation Training in Schools and Programs of Public Health
Authors: Fierro Leslie A. , Christie Christina A.
Published: December 2010

This study provides an understanding of how the coursework required for attaining a Masters of Public Health (MPH) degree in epidemiology or health education from accredited schools or programs of public health prepares students to evaluate programs or interventions. Study data were generated using a content analysis of required coursework documented on websites of academic institutions and an online survey of professors who instruct courses that focus on educating students about program or intervention evaluation. Information was abstracted from websites for over 1,000 required courses associated with completing an MPH degree in epidemiology or health education at 51 academic institutions. The survey response rate for courses with a primary focus on evaluation was 60.5% and for courses with a partial focus on evaluation was 39.8%. One academic institution required that students pursuing an MPH degree in epidemiology successfully complete a specific course that has a primary focus on program or intervention evaluation, less than 50% ( n = 21) of these academic institutions had this same requirement for health education students. Results suggest that course instructors were most likely to provide instruction on evaluation through lectures or required readings, indicating a general rather than an extensive level of engagement with this material. The extent to which students pursuing an MPH in health education or epidemiology are exposed to the basics of program evaluation appear to be out of alignment with the competencies outlined recently for public health professionals.