bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 knockout mice develop parathyroid, pancreatic, pituitary and adrenal tumours with hypercalcaemia, hypophosphataemia and hypercorticosteronaemia
Authors: Harding Brian , Lemos Manuel C , Reed Anita A C , Walls Gerard V , Jeyabalan Jeshmi , Bowl Michael R , Tateossian Hilda , Sullivan Nicky , Hough Tertius , Fraser William D , Ansorge Olaf , Cheeseman Michael T , Thakker Rajesh V
Published: July 2009

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized in man by parathyroid, pancreatic, pituitary and adrenal tumours. The MEN1 gene encodes a 610-amino acid protein (menin) which is a tumour suppressor. To investigate the in vivo role of menin, we developed a mouse model, by deleting Men1 exons 1 and 2 and investigated this for MEN1-associated tumours and serum abnormalities. Men1+/− mice were viable and fertile, and 220 Men1+/− and 94 Men1+/+ mice were studied between the ages of 3 and 21 months. Survival in Men1+/− mice was significantly lower than in Men1+/+ mice (<68% vs >85%, P<0.01). Men1+/− mice developed, by 9 months of age, parathyroid hyperplasia, pancreatic tumours which were mostly insulinomas, by 12 months of age, pituitary tumours which were mostly prolactinomas, and by 15 months parathyroid adenomas and adrenal cortical tumours. Loss of heterozygosity and menin expression was demonstrated in the tumours, consistent with a tumour suppressor role for the Men1 gene. Men1+/− mice with parathyroid neoplasms were hypercalcaemic and hypophosphataemic, with inappropriately normal serum parathyroid hormone concentrations. Pancreatic and pituitary tumours expressed chromogranin A (CgA), somatostatin receptor type 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. Serum CgA concentrations in Men1+/− mice were not elevated. Adrenocortical tumours, which immunostained for 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, developed in seven Men1+/− mice, but resulted in hypercorticosteronaemia in one out of the four mice that were investigated. Thus, these Men1+/− mice are representative of MEN1 in man, and will help in investigating molecular mechanisms and treatments for endocrine tumours.
Diabetes and cancer
Authors: Vigneri Paolo , Frasca Francesco , Sciacca Laura , Pandini Giuseppe , Vigneri Riccardo
Published: July 2009

Diabetes and cancer are two heterogeneous, multifactorial, severe, and chronic diseases. Because of their frequency, reciprocal influences – even minor influences – may have a major impact. Epidemiological studies clearly indicate that the risk of several types of cancer (including pancreas, liver, breast, colorectal, urinary tract, and female reproductive organs) is increased in diabetic patients. Mortality is also moderately increased. Several confounding factors, having general or site-specific relevance, make it difficult to accurately assess cancer risk in diabetic patients. These factors include diabetes duration, varying levels of metabolic control, different drugs used for therapy, and the possible presence of chronic complications. Hyperinsulinemia most likely favors cancer in diabetic patients as insulin is a growth factor with pre-eminent metabolic but also mitogenic effects, and its action in malignant cells is favored by mechanisms acting at both the receptor and post-receptor level. Obesity, hyperglycemia, and increased oxidative stress may also contribute to increased cancer risk in diabetes. While anti-diabetic drugs have a minor influence on cancer risk (except perhaps the biguanide metformin that apparently reduces the risk), drugs used to treat cancer may either cause diabetes or worsen a pre-existing diabetes. In addition to the well-known diabetogenic effect of glucocorticoids and anti-androgens, an increasing number of targeted anti-cancer molecules may interfere with glucose metabolism acting at different levels on the signaling substrates shared by IGF-I and insulin receptors. In conclusion, diabetes and cancer have a complex relationship that requires more clinical attention and better-designed studies.
Briefing: Society for the Environment five years on
Authors: Boldero Tim
Published: July 2009

Over 5000 chartered environmentalists have been registered by the Society for the Environment in the 5 years since it received its royal charter, including a significant number of civil engineers. Outgoing chairman Tim Boldero provides an update on one of the UK's fastest-growing professions.
Keeping water in the wadis of Arabia's perfume capital
Authors: Chakraborty Rajib
Published: July 2009

Thanks to its summer monsoons, Salalah in southern Oman is a tropical paradise in the Arabian desert. The frankincense trees lining Salalah's glittering wadis have led to it being known as ‘the perfume capital of Arabia’. However, those same wadis frequently flood large areas of the city during cyclonic storms, the last major event in 2004 causing over US$ 50 million of damage. This paper reports on three major projects worth US$ 255 million that are being undertaken to solve the problem once and for all – and with minimal environmental and social impact. They involve constructing a 6 km long earth interceptor dam north of the city, an extensive programme of wadi improvement works and provision of a modern urban drainage system linked to the upgraded wadi network.
Male Soldier Family Violence Offenders: Spouse and Child Offenders Compared to Child Offenders
Authors: Martin Sandra L. , Gibbs Deborah A. , Johnson Ruby E. , Rentz E. Danielle , Clinton-Sherrod Monique , Hardison Walters Jennifer L. , Sullivan Kristen
Published: July 2009

Army data from 2000 to 2004 were used to compare two groups of married, male, Army soldier, first-time family violence offenders: 760 dual offenders (whose initial incident included both child maltreatment and spouse abuse) and 2,209 single offenders (whose initial incident included only child maltreatment). The majority (81%) of dual offenders perpetrated physical spouse abuse; however, dual offenders were less likely than single offenders to perpetrate physical child abuse (16% vs. 42%) or sexual child abuse (1% vs. 11%), but they were more likely to perpetrate emotional child abuse (45% vs. 12%). These findings may be, at least in part, explained in light of the Army Family Advocacy Program policy, which considers spouse offenders as also being emotional child abuse offenders since children may be traumatized by exposure to spouse abuse.
Patterns of Victimization Among Male and Female Inmates: Evidence of an Enduring Legacy
Authors: Wolff Nancy , Shi Jing , Siegel Jane A.
Published: July 2009

People inside prison have above-average rates of childhood and adult victimization. Little is known, however, about the relationship between types of victimization inside prison and that experienced in childhood. This article estimates rates of victimization for male and female inmates by type of perpetrator and form of victimization (sexual, physical, either, or both) and their association with types of childhood victimization (sexual or physical). Data for these estimates are based on a random sample of approximately 7,500 inmates housed in 12 adult male prisons and one adult female prison in a single state. The significance of the findings for practice are discussed along with recommendations to improve the health and welfare of people inside prison.
A Model of Vulnerability for Adult Sexual Victimization: The Impact of Attachment, Child Maltreatment, and Scarred Sexuality
Authors: Reid Joan A. , Sullivan Christopher J.
Published: July 2009

Extending previous research, this study utilized structural equation modeling to examine the effects of poor mother/child attachment, child neglect, juvenile sexual victimization (JSV), and Finkelhor and Browne’s (1985) proposed construct of traumatic sexualization on vulnerability to adult sexual victimization. The proposed model was assessed using data drawn from a sample of African American females involved in a prospective study of child sexual abuse survivors. This group was matched to similar others without such history. Findings suggest that child neglect worsens with poor mother/child attachment, resulting in a greater likelihood of JSV. Both neglect and JSV impact shaming sexual beliefs and behaviors, contributing to the risk for adult sexual victimization. This set of variables accounted for 27% of variance in adult sexual victimization.
Intimate Partner Violence Screening and Pregnant Latinas
Authors: Rodriguez Michael , Shoultz Jan , Richardson Erin
Published: July 2009

Little is known about factors associated with health care screening of intimate partner violence (IPV) for Latinas during pregnancy. This study builds on current research examining IPV-associated outcomes among Latinas by analyzing 210 pregnant Latina responses to a patient survey. A multivariate logistic regression model examined factors associated with being screened for IPV. One-third of pregnant women reported being screened for IPV. Factors related to being screened for IPV are reported and did not match those associated with having experienced IPV. While most pregnant Latinas were not screened for IPV, having systematic processes in place for IPV screening and fostering good patient–provider communication may facilitate identification of IPV. Having a greater awareness of the risk factors associated with IPV may also provide cues for clinicians to better address the issue of IPV.
Determination of Mercury Traces in Sanitary Landfill Leachates by Anodic Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Moreno Mónica , Cuervo Germán , Hoyos Olga Lucía , Gutiérrez Tania
Published: July 2009

Particular attention is being paid to the presence of heavy metals—especially mercury—because of their tendency to accumulate in water. These toxic and persistent substances in the environment continuously accumulate and increase as a result of anthropogenic activity (Sonthalia et al., 2004). This paper presents the detection and measurement of the amount of dissolved mercury in young and mature leachates of a sanitary landfill, where the young leachates have had a technical environmental treatment compared with the mature leachates, using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry as an instrumental technique. The results showed significant differences in mercury content in both leachates.
Methyl Tert‐Butyl Ether (MTBE) Degradation by Ferrous Ion‐Activated Persulfate Oxidation: Feasibility and Kinetics Studies
Authors: Chen K. F. , Kao C. M. , Wu L. C. , Surampalli R. Y. , Liang S. H.
Published: July 2009

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using ferrous ion‐activated persulfate oxidation to remediate groundwater contaminated with methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE). In this study, batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of various factors on the efficiency of MTBE degradation including persulfate concentrations, ferrous ion concentrations, and persulfate coupled with hydrogen peroxide. Results show that ferrous ion‐activated persulfate oxidation was capable of degrading MTBE efficiently. Persulfate and ferrous ion concentrations correlated with MTBE degradation rates. However, excess addition of ferrous ion resulted in decreased MTBE degrading rates most likely because of competition for sulfate free radicals between ferrous ion and MTBE. Two main byproducts of MTBE degradation, tert‐butyl formate and tert‐butyl alcohol, were detected in the experiments; both were, however, subsequently degraded. Results of sulfate analysis show that proper addition of ferrous ion could prevent unnecessary persulfate decomposition.
Effect of Sonication on UV Disinfectability of Primary Effluents
Authors: Yong H. N. , Farnood R. R. , Cairns W. , Mao T.
Published: July 2009

In this paper, the effect of sonication on the UV disinfection kinetics of primary effluents was investigated. Wastewater samples were collected from local municipal treatment plants and were sonicated with a 20‐kHz ultrasound reactor at constant power but varying sonication times. Sonicated samples were irradiated using low‐pressure UV light to obtain the UV dose‐response curves (DRC). Results showed that sonication improved the UV disinfection of primary effluents by (1) increasing the initial slope of DRC (i.e., k 1) and (2) decreasing the tailing level of the UV dose‐response curve (i.e., β). This improvement was confirmed to be caused by the breakage of large particles (>60 μm) that are known to protect coliforms from UV photons. It also was found that the log reduction of the tailing level of DRC was directly proportional to the log reduction of the number of large particles (>60 μm) present in the effluent sample. Although the number of large particles was proportional to the coliform count at high UV dosage, the proportionality constant varied from 0.05 to 0.25, depending on the sample.
Analysis of Selected Pharmaceutical Compounds and Endocrine Disruptors in Municipal Wastewater Using Solid‐Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography
Authors: Antoniou Chrysoula V. , Koukouraki Elisavet E. , Diamadopoulos Evan
Published: July 2009

The aim of this work was to develop a simple analytical method to determine the presence of selected pharmaceutical compounds, personal care products, and endocrine disruptors in wastewater treatment plant effluents. In this study, solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) and gas chromatography with mass spectroscopy (GC‐MS) were used to identify triclosan; 2,4‐dichloro phenol; 2,3,4‐trichloro phenol; galaxolide; tonalide; estrone; 17‐β‐estradiol; 17‐α‐ethinyl estradiol; clofibric acid; and carbamazepine. Extraction parameters such as types of SPME fiber, effect of ionic strength, magnetic stirring, pH, extraction temperature, extraction time, and desorption time were investigated to optimize the SPME‐GC method. Also, analytical parameters such as repeatability, linearity, and detection limits were evaluated. The method developed in this study was fast (extraction procedure and GC‐MS analysis was around 100 minutes), solvent‐free, and low cost. This method was used as a screening test to determine if pharmaceutical compounds, personal care products, and endocrine disruptors were present in wastewater treatment plant effluents samples from the Chania Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant in Crete, Greece.
A Neural Network Approach for Prediction of Main Product Yields in Methanol to Olefins Process
Authors: Nabavi Reza , Salari Darioush , Niaei Aligholi , Vakil-Baghmisheh Mohammad-Taghi
Published: July 2009

The transformation of methanol into olefins (MTO) is gaining interest in view of the strong demand for light olefins by the petrochemical industry. Modeling of MTO process is required for both reactor design and process control. In this paper, a three layer perceptron neural network model is used to predict main product yields in methanol to olefins conversion. The network is fed with three inputs, i.e. the reactor temperature, water/methanol ratios in feed, and space-time to predict the weight fraction of unconverted methanol, ethylene, propylene and butanes. The optimum structure of neural network (NN) is determined by a trial and error method. The performance of basic backpropagation (BBP) training algorithm is compared with backpropagation with declining learning-rate factor algorithm (BDLRF). It is found that BDLRF has a better performance in both training and test phases. The network with optimum topology learns the input-output mappings with enough accuracy for interpolation cases. By using NN model in MTO process developing complex reaction kinetic in both global and hybrid model can be avoided.
Fractionation of Skim Milk by an Integrated Membrane Process for Yoghurt Elaboration and Lactose Recuperation
Authors: Rinaldoni Ana Noelia , Campderros Mercedes , Menendez Carlos J , Pérez Padilla Antonio
Published: July 2009

A combined membrane process has been used to fractionate skim milk. Microfiltration and ultrafiltration were employed to obtain concentrates with different protein/lactose ratios depending on the volume concentration ratio to produce protein enriched yoghurt. Nanofiltration has been used for lactose recovery from the ultrafiltration permeate with partial demineralization, while the permeate water of NF can be reused or recycled. Feed, permeate, concentrates and yoghurt have been physicochemical characterized and compared with commercial products. The obtained yoghurts have a smooth aroma and an agreeable taste, the protein content increased up to 50 % and the lactose content decreased approximately 50 % in comparison with commercial yoghurts, while calcium and iron were also increased, leading to a product with special characteristics and high commercial value. Lactose powder has been obtained by lyophilization; the product has good solubility and has 90% purity which can be used in different food preparations or for other applications.
Renal cell carcinoma in a horseshoe kidney
Authors: Hadzi-Djokic J. , Colovic V. , Pejcic T. , Dragicevic D.
Published: July 2009

A case of an adenocarcinoma within a horseshoe kidney (HK) is presented. Male patient presented with a history of a painless hematuria. A contrast enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) scan showed a horseshoe kidney. A large soft tissue mass was also noted on the right side. Kidney was receiving supply from two arteries on the left side and one at the right side. Angiography of the right renal artery demonstrated hypervascular tumor staining. The kidney was approached through midline abdominal incision, and a right heminephrectomy was performed. The histopathology examination showed pT2, grade 2 renal cell carcinoma. To conclude, angiography is indispensable for guiding surgical interventions.
Multiple cutaneous metastases of advanced prostate cancer: Case report and a review of the literature
Authors: Colovic V. , Basic D.T. , Opric D. , Hadzi-Djokic J.
Published: July 2009

Between 2% and 9% of malignant tumours are metastasizing to the skin. Cutaneous metastases from carcinoma of the prostate occur infrequently. Their presence is associated with poor prognosis. We report the case of a 65-year-old man with carcinoma of the prostate, presenting multiple metastases in the scrotal skin region.
Microleakage of glass ionomer cement restorations
Authors: Davidovic Lado , Tomic Slavoljub , Stanojevic Mihael , Zivkovic Slavoljub
Published: July 2009

Introduction. A lack of appropriate adhesiveness is one of the biggest problems in the restorative dentistry today and the main cause of the microleakage between restorations and hard dental tissue. The aim of this study was to assess the adhesiveness of two different glass ionomer cement restorations class V on the hard dental tissue using the SEM analysis and dye penetration test. Material and methods. The study included 80 extracted teeth for orthodontic reasons (premolars and molars) in both genders and different age. On the vestibular and oral side of the teeth, adhesive preparations class V were done (size 3?2?2 mm). On the vestibular preparation, GC Fuji II was applicated and GC Fuji II LC-improved on the oral side. The quality of the adhesiveness between restorations and hard dental tissue was evaluated using the SEM analysis and dye penetration test (0.5% basic fuxsin). Linear penetration of the dye was observed using 10 times magnification. Results. The results showed that microleakage was presented with both materials but a ratio was less with Fuji II LC compared with Fuji II. Also, the microleakage was less on the occlusal parts of the restorations than on the gingival, with both materials. Microleakage was noticed in 93.44% teeth with Fuji II GJC restorations with index of microleakage of 148 on all edges. Fuji II LC GJC restorations showed microleakage in 68.4% teeth with index of microleakage 75 on all edges. The SEM analysis showed that both glass ionomer materials had better adhesiveness to the enamel than to the dentin. The average gap length between Fuji II LC and dentin was 9 ?m and Fuji II 17 ?m, respectively. Conclusion. Better adhesiveness to the hard dental tissue was achieved with materials of the newer generations, resin modificated glas ionomer cements.
Effect of laser on the bone defects healing in rats: An experimental study
Authors: Markovic Aleksa , Drazic Radojica , Colic Snjezana
Published: July 2009

Introduction. The stimulating effect of low-power laser on the process of wound healing is characterized by proliferation of fibroblasts, collagen production, and enhanced enzyme activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible enhancing effect of low-power laser on the rate of the healing artificially created osseous defects in rats. Material and methods. Ten albino Wister rats were involved in this experimental study. Round defects (3 mm wide 2 mm deep) were made in each rat on both femurs. The right side was experimental while the left side was control. Osseous defects on the experimental side were daily treated with Galium, Aluminium, Arsenid (GaAlAs) low-power laser (Medicolaser 637, Technoline, Belgrade, Serbia), at the energy output of 4 J/cm2, with constant power density of 50 mW, and a wave length 637 nm (visible red light) per defect during seven days. Defects on the control side healed spontaneously. The effects of laser were evaluated two and three weeks postoperatively. Results. Histological analysis showed the powerful osteoblastic activity on the bone defects of the experimental side two weeks after surgery. On the control side, a new bone formation was noticed at the periphery of the bone defects but fibroblastic tissue with no signs of new bone was presented in the central areas. Three weeks after surgery, on the experimental side, bone defects were completely filled with spongious, lamellar bone while non-treated bone defects were characterized by mature lamellar bone at the peripheral areas and immature bone at the central areas. Conclusion. The results showed that the use of low-power laser could have a significant influence on the speed of curing bone defects in rats.

 This article has been retracted. Link to the retraction 10.2298/SGS1002001U
Improving Patient Problem Solving to Reduce Barriers to Diabetes Self-Management
Authors: Mulvaney Shelagh A.
Published: July 2009

IN BRIEF

Problem solving about barriers to self-management is an essential patient skill. This article provides an outline of the problem-solving process and a review of some components of problem-solving interventions. It identifies issues regarding implementing problem-solving programs to improve adherence and discusses ways to support problem solving within clinical settings.
Intrinsic Motivation and Sportsmanship: Mediating Role of Interpersonal Relationships
Authors: Núñez Juan L. , Martín-albo José , Navarro José G. , Sánchez Juana M. , GonzáLez-Cutre David
Published: July 2009

This study analyzed the mediating role of interpersonal relations between intrinsic motivation and sportsmanship. Athletes (98 men, 97 women), ages 11 to 43 years, completed measures of intrinsic motivation toward sports, self-concept of social and family relations, and sportsmanship orientation. A structural equation model indicated that self-concept of interpersonal relations mediated the relation between intrinsic motivation and sportsmanship. Also, intrinsic motivation was directly and positively associated with self-concept of interpersonal relations, which, in turn, was positively and significantly related to sportsmanship. Variances explained by self-concept of interpersonal relations and by sportsmanship were 32 and 56%, respectively. The motivational interaction between the context of interpersonal relations and the sports context proposed in the hierarchical model of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation was discussed.
Perceived Autonomy Support, Personal Goal Content, and Emotional Well-Being among Elite Athletes: Mediating Effects of Reasons for Goals
Authors: Solberg Paul André , Halvari Hallgeir
Published: July 2009

The relations between perceived support of autonomy from coaches, characteristics of personal goals, and emotional well-being from the perspective of self-determination theory was examined among 95 elite athletes (59% men; M = 21.6 yr., SD = 6.1) from Track and Field, Greco-Roman Wrestling, Taekwondo, and Power Lifting. Elite athletes were those representing their country in their sport. It was hypothesized that having autonomous reasons for goals would mediate the positive associations between perceived autonomy support and intrinsic goal content with subjective positive emotional well-being, and that controlled reasons for goals would mediate the association between extrinsic goal content and subjective negative emotional well-being. An idiographic approach to measures of personal goals and the autonomous and controlled reasons and intrinsic and extrinsic contents were performed. Perceived autonomy support from the coach was assessed with the Sport Climate Questionnaire and subjective emotional well-being was assessed with the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule. All hypotheses were supported by path analyses using LISREL.
Preliminary Study of the Prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome in Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Zak Rochelle , Couvadelli Barbara Vera , Fisher Barbara , Moss Nicole M. , Walters Arthur S.
Published: July 2009

Several previous studies have shown that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is common in children with Restless Legs Syndrome and ADHD is more common in adults with this syndrome. This pilot study examined the prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome in adults with ADHD, showing six of 30 adult ADHD participants (20%) had Restless Legs Syndrome. This estimate exceeds the prevalence (7.2%) for a previously published control group. These six adults had more severe ADHD symptomatology than those without Restless Legs Syndrome based on the overall Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale. Such results suggest that symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome may occur often in adults with ADHD and might worsen the symptoms of ADHD. Replication with a larger sample size is in order.
An Analysis of Home Advantage in the Top Two Spanish Professional Football Leagues
Authors: Sánchez Pedro A. , García-Calvo Tomás , Leo Francisco M. , Pollard Richard , Gómez Miguel A.
Published: July 2009

This study examines the effect of the points system on home advantage in the two top Spanish professional football divisions between the 1980–1981 and 2006–2007 seasons. From 1980–81, teams were awarded 2 points for a win. This was increased to 3 points starting in 1995–1996. Lower home advantage was expected with the 3-point system as a consequence of encouraging more attacking play from away teams. The results of an analysis of 20,992 games showed no significant differences in home advantage values between the First Division (66.3% before and 62.1% after the 3-point system) and the Second Division (65.6% before and 59.5% after). Nevertheless, there was a significant decrease in home advantage in both the First and Second Divisions after the introduction of the 3-point system. The results were compared with two similar studies of professional football in England.
Psychometric Quality of a Revised Version Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire
Authors: Campos Alfredo , Pérez-Fabello María José
Published: July 2009

In this study, reliability and construct validity of the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire (VVIQ) and of a revised version, the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire-2 (VVIQ–2) were assessed with a total of 279 undergraduate psychology students who were also administered other measures of imagery. Cronbach α reliabilities for both the VVIQ and the VVIQ–2 were high. A Pearson correlation between scores on the two versions of the questionnaire was high and similar to correlations with other measures of imagery. Estimates of internal consistency reliability and construct validity were similar for the two versions. New lines of research involving both imagery questionnaires are proposed.
Can Anchor Models Explain Inverted-U Effects in Facial Judgments?
Authors: Mignault Alain , Bhaumik Arijit , Chaudhuri Avi
Published: July 2009

Researchers in a variety of disciplines have found that participants take less time and generate less diversity of responses when judging stimuli towards the ends of a scale than when judging those near the center. Three types of models, connectionist, exemplar, and anchor models, can account for these inverted-U effects. Anchor models assume that stimuli near the ends of the scale are used as anchors to compare with the other stimuli, implying that anchor representations are activated for each judgment. Therefore, participants should learn the anchors better than the other stimuli. Participants were 40 students from the Department of Psychology at McGill University (5 men; M age = 20.5 yr.; SD = 1.7). The experiment involved two tasks: first participants judged facial gender and then performed a recognition task. The results showed no correlation between the position on the gender scale and recognition accuracy. Several hypotheses were offered to explain these results.
Perceptions of the Motivational Climate Created by Parents of Young Portuguese Swimmers
Authors: Salselas V. , Márquez S.
Published: July 2009

The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions of parent-initiated motivational climate in young Portuguese swimmers. 244 participants (130 boys, 114 girls; M age = 13 yr., SD = 2), involved in advanced swimming programs ( n = 88) or competition ( n = 156), responded to the Portuguese version of the Parent-Initiated Motivational Climate Questionnaire. Age did not significantly affect the perceptions the young swimmers had of their parents' initiated motivational climate, but a main effect for sex and an interaction of sex and level of practice interaction were found. Boys in advanced swimming programs perceived a stronger Success-without-effort Climate created by both their father and their mother than did girls at the same level of practice. Boys and girls in both categories had higher perceptions of a Learning/Enjoyment Climate.
Velocity, Agility, and Flexibility Performance after Handball Training versus Physical Education Program for Preadolescent Children
Authors: Oxyzoglou N. , Kanioglou A. , Ore G.
Published: July 2009

The performance on velocity, agility, and flexibility after six months of specific handball training or a mainstream physical education program was examined in participants (handball, n = 51; physical education, n = 70) who engaged in 3 sessions per week (60 min./sesson) including ball-handling exercises, horizontal and vertical jump shots, fast breaks, and several defensive skills. Statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups on velocity, agility, and flexibility with differences favouring the handball group. Handball training could significantly improve préadolescents' physical performance.
Statistical Extensions of Ponterotto and Ruckdeschel's (2007) Reliability Matrix for Estimating the Adequacy of Internal Consistency Coefficients
Authors: Ponterotto Joseph G. , Charter Richard A.
Published: July 2009

The present article extends work on Ponterotto and Ruckdeschel's Reliability Matrix for estimating the adequacy of internal consistency measures. Specifically, it uses statistical tests to determine whether a calculated coefficient alpha is equal to or greater than the hypothesized population coefficient alpha identified in the Reliability Matrix. The Feldt, Woodruff, and Salih (1987) confidence interval test and Bonett's (2002) approximate z-test and N formula are applied. Select guidelines on reliability assessment and conducting statistical tests to determine adequacy of coefficient alpha are presented.
Influence of Measurement Order by Dominant and Nondominant Hands on Performance of a Pursuit-Rotor Task
Authors: Noguchi Takanori , Demura Shinichi , Nagasawa Yoshinori , Uchiyama Masanobu
Published: July 2009

This study examined the effect of bilateral transfer and performance variation on 10 trials of a pursuit-rotor task. 95 right-handed healthy men ( M age = 21.0 yr., SD = 3.6) were randomly divided into Right-Left (R-L: n = 50) and Left-Right (L-R: n = 45) groups. The former performed the task with the right hand first and the latter group used the left hand first. Target contact times on the pursuit-rotor task improved at about the same rate. Contact times by the left hand after using the right hand were longer than those when the left hand was used first. Although variation of contact times converged with repeated trials, when the left hand was used first, the performance variation remained large for right-handed participants.
Dynamic Mental Representations in Language Comprehension
Authors: Qu Chen , Luo Yue-Jia , Mo Lei
Published: July 2009

Previous research has suggested that language comprehension routinely involves dynamic mental representations. Mental representations of temporal information about successive events stored in memory were investigated. Three experiments were conducted using a sentence-probe-recognition task in which the sentence events and the probe events were designed to reflect either a chronological time orientation or a reversed time orientation. The implicit time shift between events also was manipulated. Chronological events were more accessible than the reversed-time events, even for events involving a scenario shift. However, when the sentence events and the probe events differed by level within a hierarchical structure, the effect of temporal orientation disappeared. The results suggest that readers continue to track mentally an event's temporal structure and anticipate the upcoming event in a dynamic representation until another event emerges on a different level within a hierarchical structure.
Isokinetic Strength during Knee Flexion and Extension in Elite Fencers
Authors: Poulis I. , Chatzis S. , Christopoulou K. , Tsolakis Ch.
Published: July 2009

The relation of leg preference and muscular strength in elite fencers was examined. The dominant and nondominant extensor and flexor muscles of 30 elite fencers ( M age = 18.2 yr., SD = 2.0 yr.; M height = 173 cm, SD = 7.4 cm; M weight = 62.7 kg, SD = 8.9 kg), who were members of the Greek national team, and 14 healthy, young, sedentary adults (8 men, 6 women; M age 23.4 yr., SD = 1.9; M height = 169 cm, SD = 10.5 cm; M weight = 66.3 kg, SD = 9.9) were tested for concentric isokinetic contraction at slow (30 to 60°/sec.) and fast (240°/sec.) angular velocities. Significant multivariate differences were found between groups for knee extension, angle of knee extension, knee flexion, and flexor/extensor peak torque ratio. In contrast, no significant difference was found between the dominant and nondominant legs. There was no significant difference in the flexor/extensor peak torque ratio among any of the concentric angular velocities tested. These findings suggest that long-term training in fencing influences the strength characteristics of the lower limbs.
Effect of Stick Use on Rapid Unimanual Tapping in Drummers
Authors: Fujii Shinya , Oda Shingo
Published: July 2009

Drummers achieve impressive musical performance by using drumsticks. The present study investigated the effect of drumstick use on rapid unimanual tapping performance. 17 drummers tapped a force transducer as fast as possible for 10 sec. with a finger and a drumstick. No significant difference between finger and stick tapping was found for tapping speed and variability of peak force, but there were significant differences in contact time with the tapping surface, mean peak force, and intertap interval variability: Stick tapping had a shorter contact time, a larger peak force, and more stable intertap interval than did finger tapping. Thus, stick use makes it possible to produce a larger impact force and enhances the ability to control timing during rapid manual movement, allowing drummers to play drums powerfully and stably, which is clearly important for the role they have in controlling or enhancing musical rhythm.
Visual Search Strategies and Decision Making in Baseball Batting
Authors: Takeuchi Takayuki , Inomata Kimihiro
Published: July 2009

The goal was to examine the differences in visual search strategies between expert and nonexpert baseball batters during the preparatory phase of a pitcher's pitching and accuracy and timing of swing judgments during the ball's trajectory. 14 members of a college team (Expert group), and graduate and college students (Nonexpert group), were asked to observe 10 pitches thrown by a pitcher and respond by pushing a button attached to a bat when they thought the bat should be swung to meet the ball (swing judgment). Their eye movements, accuracy, and the timing of the swing judgment were measured. The Expert group shifted their point of observation from the proximal part of the body such as the head, chest, or trunk of the pitcher to the pitching arm and the release point before the pitcher released a ball, while the gaze point of the Nonexpert group visually focused on the head and the face. The accuracy in swing judgments of the Expert group was significantly higher, and the timing of their swing judgments was significantly earlier. Expert baseball batters used visual search strategies to gaze at specific cues (the pitching arm of the pitcher) and were more accurate and relatively quicker at decision making than Nonexpert batters.
The Predictors of Success in Computer Courses among High School Students
Authors: Baloǧlu Mustafa , Abbassi Amir , Çlevik Vildan
Published: July 2009

High school students report high computer anxiety. The addition of three computer anxiety dimensions (i.e., Affective Anxiety, Damaging Anxiety, and Learning Anxiety) improved the prediction of computer course grades beyond that afforded by the differences in academic achievement. 700 Turkish high school students (386 boys, 314 girls) enrolled in high school computer courses participated. The Computer Anxiety Scale and a personal data sheet were used to collect the data in the study. Computer course grades were positively related to students' academic achievement but negatively related to the three anxiety subscales. When differences in academic achievement were controlled in multiple-regression analyses, anxiety dimensions were not significantly related to course grades. Anxiety has a more detrimental effect on students with lower academic ability than on those with higher academic ability.
Sex Differences in Beliefs about Cues to Deception
Authors: Sato Taku , Nihei Yoshiaki
Published: July 2009

Sex differences in beliefs among Japanese students about cues to deception were explored. 171 participants (91 women, 80 men) read a scenario in which a protagonist caused a fatal traffic accident and told a lie to avoid responsibility. Then participants rated how the protagonist's behaviors would change when lying. Women participants believed significantly more than men that a liar shows body cues (e.g., body touching, biting lips) associated with anxiety, and that a liar has unsuccessful impression management (e.g., fewer smiles, fewer facial expressions). Furthermore, the women's scores also indicated that a liar would increase the amount of information (e.g., longer response length, gestures) and show more nonfluent speech (e.g., speech disturbances, inconsistency of speech contents).
The Taxon Concept is Not Taxonic: Response to Grove (2008)
Authors: Haslam Nick
Published: July 2009

In 2008, Grove proposed that there is a binary distinction between taxonic and nontaxonic latent variables, although causal structures which do not produce sharp category boundaries have long been recognized by Meehl and others. I argue that this position is incoherent. As soon as one admits causal mechanisms which do not yield dichotomous outcomes and acknowledges data structures which have intermediate category membership, the taxon concept becomes nontaxonic. This position does not imply that determining something to be taxonic is arbitrary but suggests that one should not make strong inferences about causation (e.g., specific etiology) on the basis of taxometric research findings.
Caffeine's Effects on True and False Memory
Authors: Capek Sarah , Guenther R. Kim
Published: July 2009

Caffeine's effects on recall of word lists were investigated using the Deese-Roediger-McDermott (DRM) paradigm. College students were administered either 200 mg of caffeine or a 250-mg lactose placebo; after 30 min., they were tested on recall using six word lists. Words of each list were semantically related to a single word (a “critical lure”) that was not presented in the list. participants administered caffeine recalled more list words and more critical lures than participants administered lactose. Recall of list words was negatively correlated with recall of critical lures. Caffeine appears to intensify the strength of connections among list words and critical lures, thereby enhancing both true and false memory.
Association of Depression and Anxiety with Oocyte and Sperm Numbers and Pregnancy Outcomes during in vitro Fertilization Treatment
Authors: Gürhan Nermin , Atici Derya , Akyüz Aygül , Kisa Sezer
Published: July 2009

To estimate association of depression and anxiety scores with oocyte and sperm numbers and pregnancy rates during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, 80 Turkish couples were administered the Spielberger State and Trait Anxiety and Beck Depression Inventories. A significant correlation ( r= -.25) obtained between Depression and women's oocyte pickup data and number of oocytes, showed that low oocyte numbers were associated with higher Depression. No significant relation was found for sperm counts with Anxiety and Depression scores on the day of oocyte pickup and sperm collection, but sperm motility was weakly and inversely correlated with Depression scores. Women with high State Anxiety score on the oocyte pickup day had significant lower pregnancy rates, as did those with higher Depression. Counseling of couples by health professionals on fertility-related issues to be implemented in IVF units is advisable.
Effects of the Youth Fit for Life Protocol on Physiological, Psychological, and Behavioral Factors at YMCA Calgary After-School Care Sites
Authors: Annesi James J. , Tennant Gisèle , Westcott Wayne L. , Faigenbaum Avery D. , Smith Alice E.
Published: July 2009

Youth inactivity and inappropriately high weight is a problem in the United States, Canada, and much of the industrialized world. Physiological and behavioral changes associated with the Youth Fit For Life protocol, a physical activity and nutrition education treatment based on self-efficacy theory, were assessed in 7- to 12-yr.-olds ( N = 43) from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Body Mass Index, strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance significantly improved over a 12-wk. period when contrasted with changes based on normative data. Significant within-group improvements in measures of self-efficacy, vegetable intake, and voluntary moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were also found over 12 wk. Multiple regression analysis indicated that score changes in measures of self-regulatory and task self-efficacy, and general self, accounted for changes in voluntary physical activity. Implications for use of behaviorally based methods for large-scale obesity prevention treatments in preadolescents were discussed.
Association of Serum Homocysteine and Serum Lipid with Eclampsia
Authors: Mahal Monzarin , Yeasmin Farida , Amin Syed AKM Nurul , Shahnaj Afia , Rashid Maliha , Hossain Md Shahadat
Published: July 2009

Eclampsia is one of the most common pregnancy complications causing high mortality and morbidity for both mother and foetus especially in developing countries. Many studies suggest that elevated homocysteine level is an important risk factor for eclampsia. The aim of this study was to explore the association between serum homocysteine with eclampsia and to establish serum homocysteine measurement as a reliable test for early detection of eclampsia. In a case control study serum homocysteine and lipid profile were measured in 52 controls (healthy uncomplicated pregnant women) and 50 eclamptic pregnant women. Serum homocysteine in eclampsia cases (10.44±4.08 μmol/L) found to be significantly increased (p < 0.001) compared to controls (7.97±3.46 μmol/L). Serum HDL-cholesterol concentration found to be significantly decreased (p < 0.001) in the cases (35.98±6.35 mg/dl) compared to controls (42.69±6.09 mg/dl). A significant negative correlation (r-.801, p < 0.01) was found between serum homocysteine and HDL-cholesterol concentration among cases. It can be concluded that elevated serum homocysteine and HDL-cholesterol deficiency were associated with eclampsia. But elevated homocysteine itself might be a factor associated with eclampsia irrespective of lipid profile status. Key Words: Homocysteine, Eclampsia.   doi: 10.3329/jafmc.v5i1.2842 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 5, No 1 (June) 2009 pp.7-10
Lidocaine as Endotracheal Tube Cuff Inflating Agent
Authors: Ali Nadeem Parvez , Tauhid-ul-Mulck Md , Noor Mahbub , Mollick Md Torab , Ahmed Masud , Chowdhury Md Rezaul Alam
Published: July 2009

A prospective study was carried on 120 patients undergoing surgical operations lasting less than 90 minutes. The incidence of postoperative sore throat, dysphasia and hoarseness of voice with 2% lidocaine (Group L) as endotracheal cuff inflating agent was compared with that with distilled water (Group D) and air (Group A). Seventy two percent of lidocaine group in comparison to 60% distilled water group and 37% air group experienced none of the above complications during the entire study period. Only 5% in lidocaine group had sore throat after 22-24 hours compared to 20% in the distilled water group and 45% in the air group. Twenty three percent complained of dysphasia in both lidocaine and distilled water group after 1-3 hours compared to 45% in air group. After 22-24 hours it completely resolved in lidocaine group compared to 20% persisting in the other two groups. Twenty three percent complained of hoarseness in lidocaine group as compared to 35% and 55% in distilled water and air groups respectively after 1-3 hours. This completely resolved in lidocaine group but persisted in 20% and 45% in the distilled water and air group respectively after 22-24 hours. The results showed an advantage in using lidocaine as an endotracheal tube cuff inflating agent in reducing postoperative sore throat, dysphasia and hoarseness in comparison to distilled water and air. Key Words: Lidocain, Endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff inflating agent.   doi: 10.3329/jafmc.v5i1.2847 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 5, No 1 (June) 2009 pp.25-28
MRI Evaluation of Neck Pain
Authors: Islam Md Khairul , Alam Syed Zoherul , Rahman Md Sayedur , Akhter Afroza
Published: July 2009

Patients with neck pain both acute and chronic of various aetiologies are commonly found throughout the world for years. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an excellent imaging modality for demonstration of aetiology of neck pain. Degenerative changes, infective processes, neoplastic processes, mechanical injuries and congenital disorders of the spine can be detected by MRI without any hazards. This prospective study of neck pain was done in Radiology and Imaging department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka on 60 cases of both sexes reported during the period, February 2006 to September 2006. The aim of the study was to find out the role of MRI in diagnosis and evaluation of chronic and acute neck pain. Out of 60 cases, 51 cases were with cervical spondylotic changes, 2 cases were with spinal trauma, 2 cases were space occupying lesion (SOL) in spinal cord, 1 case was SOL in vertebra, 1 case was soft tissue mass in neck. Only 2 cases showed normal MRI findings. The youngest patient was a fourteen year old male and oldest one was 75 years old male person. Highest incidence was in the 5th decade numbering 20 (33.3%). MRI is non-invasive, non hazardous method and have very few contraindications. Though MRI is relatively expensive and still then it is good considering the diagnostic accuracy and cost effectiveness. Key Words: MRI evaluation, Neck pain.   doi: 10.3329/jafmc.v5i1.2849 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 5, No 1 (June) 2009 pp.34-36