bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diastolic Function in Several Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Tissue Doppler Imaging Study
Authors: de Almeida Edgar A.F. , de Oliveira Eduardo I. , Lopes José António , Almeida Ana G. , Lopes Mário G. , Prata M. Martins
Published: June 2007

Background: This study evaluates the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction (DD) in several stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Methods: 107 ADPKD patients performed echocardiographic and Doppler studies and a tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) study. Patients were divided in three groups: group 1, 57 patients with CKD stage I, group 2, 37 patients in stages II and III, and group 3, 13 patients with CKD stages IV and V (not on dialysis). Results: In transmitral Doppler, 1 patient in group 1 compared to 5 in group 2, and 4 in group 3 exhibited DD (p < 0.005); moreover, E/A ratio decreases progressively from group 1 to 3 (p < 0.0001). In TDI, DD was observed in 8 patients in group 1, 17 in group 2, and 8 in group 3 had DD (p < 0.001). Em velocity, the best TDI parameter for DD, correlated with age, renal function and blood pressure. When adjusted for age, increased left ventricular mass index and decreased renal function were independent risk factors of DD. Conclusions: DD occurred progressively as renal function deteriorates in patients with ADPKD and this effect is independently related to age and blood pressure.
Too Old to Benefit from Sports? The Cardiovascular Effects of Exercise Training in Elderly Subjects Treated for Isolated Systolic Hypertension
Authors: Westhoff Timm H. , Franke Nadine , Schmidt Sven , Vallbracht-Israng Katja , Meissner Romy , Yildirim Havva , Schlattmann Peter , Zidek Walter , Dimeo Fernando , van der Giet Markus
Published: June 2007

Background: Hypertension in the elderly is commonly characterized by an elevation of pulse pressure. With regard to advanced arteriosclerosis and limited physical fitness, doubt was casted whether elderly patients still achieve relevant cardiovascular benefits by physical exercise. The present work examines the impact of pulse pressure as a footprint of vascular ageing on cardiovascular benefits of endurance training in elderly hypertensives. Methods: 54 patients ≧60 years with systolic 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) >140 mm Hg and/or antihypertensive treatment and diastolic ABP ≤90 mm Hg were randomly assigned to sedentary activity or a 12-week treadmill exercise program (target lactate 2.5 ± 0.5 mmol/l). Results: Exercise significantly decreased systolic and diastolic ABP by 8.5 ± 8.2 and 5.1 ± 3.7 mm Hg (p < 0.001 each) and increased physical performance. Arterial compliance remained unchanged, whereas endothelium-dependent vasodilation – measured by flow-mediated dilation – significantly increased from 5.6 ± 1.7 to 7.9 ± 3.0% (p < 0.007). After adjustment for initial systolic ABP, pulse pressure did not affect the change of BP. Conclusion: The exercise-induced reduction of BP, which is mediated by improved endothelial function, is independent of pulse pressure. Thus, physical exercise is a helpful adjunct to control BP even in old hypertensives with markedly increased arterial stiffness.
Clock Drawing Phenotypes in Community-Dwelling African Americans and Caucasians: Results from the University of Alabama at Birmingham Study of Aging
Authors: Schillerstrom Jason E. , Sawyer Baker Patricia , Allman Richard M. , Rungruang Bunja , Zamrini Edward , Royall Donald R.
Published: June 2007

Background: Two dementia patterns have been described: ‘type 1’ dementia is characterized by executive function impairment and posterior cortical impairment, and ‘type 2’ dementia is characterized by executive impairment and relatively preserved posterior cortical function. The Executive Clock Drawing Task (CLOX) has been used to discriminate between type 1, type 2, and normal cognitive phenotypes. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of these phenotypes in community-dwelling African American and Caucasian elders. Methods: 433 African Americans and 477 Caucasians over the age of 65 were recruited. Executive function was assessed using CLOX1, a command-directed clock drawing task. Posterior cortical impairment was assessed using CLOX2, a clock copy task. CLOX scores were combined to estimate the prevalence of type 1 phenotype (those with poor CLOX1 and CLOX2 performance) versus type 2 phenotype (those with only poor CLOX1 performance). Results: 351 (39%) subjects had poor executive performance. Three hundred (33%) subjects had a type 1 phenotype and this pattern was 2.5 times more common among African Americans than Caucasians. One hundred and thirty-seven (15%) subjects had a type 2 phenotype with no significant difference between African Americans and Caucasians. African American ethnicity was independently associated with poor CLOX1 performance after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, posterior cortical function, and global cognition. CLOX2 performance was not associated with ethnicity. Conclusion: The prevalence of poor executive performance in community-dwelling elders is high. African Americans were more likely to have a type 1 phenotype and these ethnic differences were not explained by sociodemographic variables alone.
Artemisia herba-alba Asso (Asteraceae) Has Equivalent Effects to Green and Black Tea Decoctions on Antioxidant Processes and Some Metabolic Parameters in Rats
Authors: Abid Zakia Ben , Feki Moncef , Hédhili Abderrazek , Hamdaoui Mohamed Hédi
Published: June 2007

Aims: The objective was to compare the long-term effects of Artemisia herba-alba Asso decoction with a green or black tea decoction, prepared without sugar, on the antioxidant processes in rats. Methods: The direct parameters used in the control of antioxidant processes were total antioxidant status, glutathione peroxidase activity and conjugated dienes, as early markers of lipid peroxidation. However, the indirect parameters used in this control were the body weight gains, plasma glucose and lipid concentrations, iron, copper and zinc status. Results: After 9 weeks, artemisia or tea decoctions did not influence the daily food intake of the groups; however, they significantly decreased the weight gains. They significantly increased the total antioxidant status between 83.5 and 111% and the whole blood glutathione peroxidase activity between 23 and 38%. However, only the green tea and artemisia decoctions significantly decreased the plasma conjugated diene levels by 35 and 55.5%, respectively. Regarding the trace element status, artemisia, green or black tea decoctions significantly reduced the blood Fe by 28, 30 and 17%, respectively. Also, liver Fe tended to be lower in all treated groups as compared to the control group. In contrast, artemisia significantly increased both blood and liver Cu by 50 and 28% as compared to the control group. Moreover, they significantly decreased the plasma glucose and triglyceride levels between 29 and 40%. For the cholesterol, only the artemisia decoction significantly reduced the total blood cholesterol by 17%. Conclusion: Artemisia as well as green tea decoctions increased the total antioxidant status, whole blood glutathione peroxidase activity and zinc and copper status, and prevented weight gains and increases in conjugated dienes, plasma glucose, lipids and iron status. The beneficial antioxidant effects were in descending order: artemisia decoction ≧ green tea decoction > black tea decoction. So, artemisia could constitute a good adjuvant to combat obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia and particularly oxidative stress.
Ghrelin and Bone Mass in Postmenopausal Hypertensive Women
Authors: Pérez-Castrillón José L. , Justo Isabel , Sanz Alberto , San Miguel Angel , Mazón Ma Angeles , Abad Laura , Vega Gemma , Dueñas Antonio
Published: June 2007

Background: Ghrelin, a recently discovered peptide mainly secreted by the stomach, has an orexigenic effect which stimulates secretion of the growth hormone. It also has vasodilator effects which reduce blood pressure and stimulate in vitro, bone formation. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of ghrelin on bone mass and bone remodeling markers in postmenopausal hypertensive women. Material and Methods: 25 postmenopausal hypertensive women, light to moderate based on the JNC-VII criteria, were studied. They had a mean age of 58 ± 8 years, a body mass index of 28 ± 6 and a hypertension development time of 65 ± 84 months. Osteocalcin, PTHi, 25-vitamin D, ghrelin in serum and deoxypiridinoline in urine were determined in all patients. A lumbar spine densitometer was made (DXP Lunar, Madison, Wisc., USA). Results: Diminished levels of ghrelin were observed in the osteoporotic group (40 ± 19 vs. 78 ± 40, p = 0.027). When the patients were separated according to ghrelin tertiles, a greater bone mass was observed in the upper tertiles, which was associated with a decrease in the urinary deoxypiridinoline. When the total population was analyzed, no relation between the ghrelin and bone mass was found, nor with any of the parameters of calcium metabolism. Only a statistically significant relation between ghrelin and deoxypiridinoline was observed (r = –0.428, p = 0.026). Conclusions: In postmenopausal hypertensive women, ghrelin may produce a protecting effect over bone mass through an anticatabolic mechanism manifested by a decrease of bone resorption.
Multiple Bone Fractures in an 8-Year-Old Child with Cow’s Milk Allergy and Inappropriate Calcium Supplementation
Authors: Monti Giovanna , Libanore Valentina , Marinaro Letizia , Lala Roberto , Miniero Roberto , Savino Francesco
Published: June 2007

The case of an 8-year-old boy with severe bone mass reduction and 4 fractures as a result of an unsupervised diet established to treat cow’s milk allergy is presented. Endocrine, genetic and orthopedic pathologies were excluded. While vitamin D intake had always been appropriate, his calcium intake had been inadequate for many years. This clinical report suggests that both vitamin D and calcium supplementation are necessary when a cow’s milk protein-free diet is prescribed, even when a hypo- or non-allergenic formula is provided.
Carbohydrate versus Energy Restriction: Effects on Weight Loss, Body Composition and Metabolism
Authors: Williams Elizabeth A. , Perkins Susan N. , Smith Nicole C.P. , Hursting Stephen D. , Lane Michelle A.
Published: June 2007

Background/Aims: To compare weight loss, body composition, and metabolic changes in response to carbohydrate versus dietary energy restriction (DER) in obese mice. Methods: One hundred C57BL/6 mice were randomized into five groups of 20. The group of high-carbohydrate (HC) mice consumed an HC diet ad libitum and the group of high-fat (HF) mice consumed an HF diet ad libitum for 14 weeks. Additional groups consumed the HF diet for 7 weeks ad libitum and during weeks 8–14 were switched to either a low-carbohydrate diet (LC) consumed ad libitum, the HC diet pair-fed (PF) to the energy intake of the LC group, or an HC DER regimen providing 70% of the energy intake of the HF group. Results: At 14 weeks, the LC and HF groups weighed more and exhibited higher percent fat mass and lower bone mineral density than the HC, PF, and DER groups. Relative to the DER group, the LC group displayed comparable serum ketone bodies but higher serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor-1. Conclusions: In contrast to DER, the LC diet did not cause weight loss or reduce serum markers associated with obesity-related diseases other than diabetes in obese mice, suggesting that carbohydraterestriction without reduced energy intake does not induce weight loss.
The PPARγ Pro12Ala Polymorphism Is Not Associated with Body Mass Index or Waist Circumference among Hispanics from Colorado
Authors: Nelson Tracy L. , Fingerlin Tasha E. , Moss Laurie , Barmada M. Michael , Ferrell Robert E. , Norris Jill M.
Published: June 2007

Background/Aims: First to determine if body mass index (BMI) or waist circumference (WC) differ by possession of the Ala allele of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) Pro12Ala polymorphism, and second, to determine if dietary fat intake and physical activity moderate these potential relationships among Hispanic Americans from Colorado. Methods: We studied 216 Hispanic pedigrees (1,850 nuclear families) from the San Luis Valley and Denver (mean age 50 years). The families were genotyped for the Pro12Ala polymorphism of the PPARγ gene. BMI, WC and diabetes status were measured in the clinic, and, for diabetics, self-reported BMI at diabetes diagnosis was used. Data were analyzed using the Family-Based Association Test (FBAT). We conducted overall and stratified analyses by tertiles of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated (PUFA) and saturated (SFA) fat intake, the PUFA:SFA ratio, and physical activity. We also used generalized estimating equations (GEE) to further explore the FBAT findings. Results: The average BMI and WC were ∼29 kg/m2 and 101 cm, respectively. The frequency of the Ala allele was 13.5%. We did not find the Ala allele to be associated with BMI or WC overall (p = 0.58 and 0.23, respectively). We did find the Ala allele to be associated with increased BMI in those with high dietary PUFA and PUFA:SFA ratio (p = 0.007 and 0.01, respectively); however, these findings were not confirmed using the GEE models. Conclusions: One previous study has reported the Ala allele to be associated with higher BMI among Hispanics; however, we did not find this association. Further, we could not conclude that dietary fat intake or physical activity altered any association between BMI or WC and the Ala allele.
Effect of Cooling on the Rectal Tone
Authors: Shafik A. , El Sibai O. , Shafik I. , Shafik A.A.
Published: June 2007

Objectives: It has been claimed that recognizable organized sensory nerve endings could not be detected in the rectal wall. Hence the identification of cold receptors sensitive to cold temperature in the rectal wall has so far not been reported in the literature. We investigated the hypothesis that rectal cooling effected an increase of the rectal tone. Methods: Twenty-eight healthy volunteers (18 men, 10 women, age 26–50 years) were studied. The rectal wall tone was assessed by the barostat system during infusion of normal saline at 30°C and at 4°C. The test was repeated after rectal anesthetization with lidocaine. Results: The rectal tone on rectal saline infusion showed no response at a temperature of 30°C, and asignificant increase (p < 0.05) at 4°C. The latency measured by the switch-inflation apparatus recorded a mean of 15.3 ± 1.2 ms. Iced saline infusion into the anesthetized rectum effected no significant change in the rectal tone. Conclusions: The current study has demonstrated that rectal infusion of iced saline produced an increase of the rectal tone. This effect is suggested to be a reflex and mediated through the ‘rectal cooling reflex’. The reflex is suggested to act as an investigative tool in the diagnosis of rectal motile disorders provided further studies are performed.
cis- and trans-Resveratrol Are Glucuronidated in Rat Brain, Olfactory Mucosa and Cultured Astrocytes
Authors: Sabolovic Nicole , Heurtaux Tony , Humbert Anne-Claude , Krisa Stéphanie , Magdalou Jacques
Published: June 2007

Background/Aims: Glucuronidation of cis- and trans-resveratrol (3,5,4’-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene), which is a naturally occurring phytoalexin known to exert a number of beneficial health effects, was investigated in rat brain, cultured astrocytes and olfactory mucosa. Methods: The isomers were incubated with tissue homogenates, microsomes, or rat liver recombinant UDP-glucuronosyltransferases in the presence of UDP-glucuronic acid. The glucuronides were separated by HPLC and quantitated. Astrocytes were exposed to lipopolysaccharide to promote inflammatory conditions. Results: All tissues were able to form resveratrol glucuronides although at a lower extent, when compared to the liver. The reaction was stereo- and regioselective. In brain tissue, trans-resveratrol 3-O-glucuronide was mainly formed, whereas the cis-isomer was glucuronidated at a lower rate on that position. No 4’-O-glucuronide was detected in brain. In olfactory mucosa homogenates, the cis 3-O-glucuronide was mainly formed, whereas the trans-isomer was glucuronidated only on the 3-position. In astrocytes, 3-O-glucuronides of the cis- and trans-resveratrol were only detected. The rat recombinant UGT1A6 and UGT2B1 isoforms were able to glucuronidate cis- and trans-resveratrol. Finally, in inflammatory conditions, trans-resveratrol glucuronidation was enhanced in astrocytes. Conclusion: Brain tissues are effective in the glucuronidation of resveratrol isomers. This metabolism pathway is likely to modulate the concentration of these biologically active substances.
Effects of Chemical Stimulation of Electrically-Induced Phosphenes on their Bandwidth, Shape, Number and Intensity
Authors: Knoll M. , Kugler J. , Höfer O. , Lawder S.D.
Published: June 2007

The perception of patterns not resulting from viewing external objects but stimulated by cranial electrodes with pulse currents within the electroencephalographic frequency range (‘phosphenes’) has been investigated in earlier work. The experiments described in this paper were undertaken to observe in one subject effects of chemical stimulation (by mescaline, psilocybin and LSD) on electrically-induced phosphenes as to their bandwidth, shape, number and intensity. An increase of two electrically-induced ‘control’ patterns in intensity and bandwidth and the production of a great number of new phosphene patterns with large bandwidth and intensity have been observed. These new drug-induced phosphenes prevailed during simultaneous electrical and maximum chemical stimulation (Fig. 22). From the experimental results a cybernetic model of a pulse-driven phosphene resonator can be derived.
Music Therapy in Pediatrics
Authors: Avers Laura , Mathur Ambika , Kamat Deepak
Published: June 2007

The soothing effects of music have been well described over the centuries and across cultures. In more recent times, studies have shown the beneficial effects of music in alleviating symptoms in a wide variety of clinical and psychologic conditions. Music therapy has been primarily used as an intervention to control emotional states, in pain management, cognitive processing, and stress management. Stress is associated with increased production of the stress hormone cortisol, which is known to suppress immune responses. Several studies in the past few decades have demonstrated a positive effect of music therapy on reducing stress or increasing immune responses, or both. Music therapy should therefore be considered as a valuable addition to standard pharmacologic therapeutic modalities in enhancing the immune response and lowering stress levels in such conditions. This article reviews the role of music as a therapeutic modality and the future for music therapy, particularly in pediatrics.
Prader-Willi Syndrome: An Update and Review for the Primary Pediatrician
Authors: Chen Christina , Visootsak Jeannie , Dills Shelley , Graham John M.
Published: June 2007

Prader-Willi syndrome, the first known human genomic imprinting disorder, is one of the most common micro-deletion syndromes. Prader-Willi syndrome is caused by the absence of certain paternally inherited genes on the long arm of chromosome 15, resulting in a complete absence of the active copy of the genetic information in this region. It is most commonly known for its food-related characteristics of hyperphagia, food-seeking behavior, and consequent obesity. Primary care physicians play an important role in the care of children with Prader-Willi syndrome, from recognizing the presenting signs and symptoms at its various stages to understanding their unique medical, developmental, behavioral, and dietary issues. They can also serve as a valuable source of support and advocacy for the family. This article reviews the current state of knowledge about Prader-Willi syndrome and discusses up-to-date understanding of the management of this condition.
Tioga County Fit for Life: A Primary Obesity Prevention Project
Authors: Gombosi Russell L. , Olasin Regina M. , Bittle Jason L.
Published: June 2007

Pediatric obesity, which has reached epidemic proportions in the United States in the past 10 years, translates directly into rising rates of adult obesity. This study assessed the impact of a school, family, community, and industry-based primary intervention project on the rates of overweight and obesity in a rural countywide cohort of children in grades kindergarten through 8. It included classroom education, student/ family wellness booklets, point source healthy menus, occupational health analyses, and community health fairs. A 5-year longitudinal analysis of grade-specific rates of overweight and obesity of the participating children showed that overweight and obesity rates increased for all cohorts. Key elements contribute to increasing rates of pediatric obesity. Inadequate penetration of education/information dissemination and lag time represent 2 explanations for the lack of obesity reduction during the program implementation period. Strategies for successful engagement of multiple groups are essential to effectively reverse the pediatric obesity epidemic.
An Important Issue in the Management of Elimination Dysfunction in Children: Parental Awareness of Constipation
Authors: Akyol Ilker , Adayener Cuneyt , Senkul Temucin , Baykal Kadir , Iseri Cuneyt
Published: June 2007

The scale of parental awareness concerning children's bowel habits and its effects on voiding dysfunction were investigated. Parents of toilet-trained children older than 4 years were given questionnaires during the first interview and after follow-up of their children's bowel habits for symptoms and signs of constipation and urinary complaints. Diagnosis of constipation was made according to the Rome III criteria. Eighty-nine patients were included in the study. The number of constipated patients almost doubled after the observation period. Most of the urinary problems resolved upon treatment of constipation. History at first interview was misleading in 42% of the patients who would benefit from a simple treatment. Most of the parents were unaware of their children's bowel habits. Before proceeding with more complicated tests or treatment of voiding dysfunction, the symptoms and signs of constipation should be sought during a close parental observation period.
Fine Motor Function and Oral-Motor Imitation Skills in Preschool-Age Children With Speech-Sound Disorders
Authors: Newmeyer Amy J. , Grether Sandra , Grasha Carol , White Jaye , Akers Rachel , Aylward Christa , Ishikawa Keiko , deGrauw Ton
Published: June 2007

Preschool-aged children with speech-sound disorders may be at risk for associated deficits in fine motor function. The objectives of this study were 2-fold: (1) to determine whether abnormalities in fine motor function could be detected in 2- to 5-year-old children with speech-sound disorders and (2) to determine whether there was a correlation between abnormal oral-motor imitation skills and abnormal fine motor function. Thirty-two children with speech-sound disorders (6 female, 26 male) were prospectively evaluated from July 2003 to July 2005, and the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales and the Kaufman Speech Praxis Test for Children were administered. The presence of abnormal oral-motor imitation skills as measured by the Kaufman Speech Praxis Test was associated with below-average fine motor performance. This finding has important implications for evaluation and treatment of preschool children with severe speech-sound disorders.
Elevator-Related Injuries to Children in the United States, 1990 Through 2004
Authors: O'Neil Joseph , Steele Gregory K. , Huisingh Carrie , Smith Gary A.
Published: June 2007

This study describes the epidemiology of elevator-related injuries among children in the United States from 1990 to 2004. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. Reported cases were used to project national estimates. An estimated 29 030 elevator-related injuries occurred among children in the United States during 1990 to 2004. The mean age was 8.1 years (SD, 6.1 years), with 53.3% of injuries among boys. The overall injury rate was 2.5 injuries per 100 000 population. The injury rate for children aged 0-4 years was 4.2 per 100 000 population, and for children aged 5-19 years the injury rate was 1.9 per 100 000 population. The most frequent cause of injury was the elevator door closing on a body part, the most frequently injured body region was the upper extremity, and soft-tissue injuries were the most frequent type of injury. Children should be closely supervised on or near elevators to reduce the risk of injury.
Current Trends in the Management of Common Painful Conditions of Preschool Children in United States Pediatric Emergency Departments
Authors: Khan Abu N.G.A. , Sachdeva Sunil
Published: June 2007

Trends in pain management practice by Pediatric Emergency Medicine fellows in the United States were described and analyzed. Self-administered surveys on pain management practices conducted among Pediatric Emergency Medicine fellows at the national Pediatric Emergency Medicine fellows' annual conference in 1996 and 2004 were compared. In comparison to the 1996 survey, the 2004 survey noted a significant increase in narcotics use for headache (6% versus 12%; P = .001), abdominal pain (4% versus 50%; P = .001), and burn patients (46% versus 68%; P = .001). There was also an increase in reported use of topical/ local anesthetics for venipuncture (6% versus 18%, P = .001) and lumbar puncture (49% versus 80%; P = .001), and ketamine for repairing lacerations (16% versus 56%; P = .001), incision and drainage (12% versus 58%; P = .001), and reduction of fractures (38% versus 79%; P = .001). The reported use of pain medication use by Pediatric Emergency Medicine fellows increased during the study period.
Variability in the Evaluation and Management of Opiate-Exposed Newborns in Maryland
Authors: Crocetti Michael T. , Amin Diane D. , Jansson Lauren M.
Published: June 2007

During 2003 and 2004 an estimated 2000 pregnant women and 31 000 nonpregnant women aged 15 to 44 reported using heroin. The majority of those newborns exposed in utero to opioids will develop symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Standardized guidelines for the evaluation and management of opiate-exposed newborns are lacking. The objective of this study was to document variations in the evaluation and management of opiate-exposed newborns among Maryland hospitals using a 13-item phone survey. Twenty-seven (82%) of the hospitals completed the survey. Staff at every hospital reported that they delivered opiate-exposed infants, however only 52% reported using a standardized evaluation and treatment protocol for this population consisting of guidelines for maternal toxicology screening, length-of-stay criteria and a monitoring tool for drug-exposed infants, infant supportive care techniques, and pharmacologic treatment guidelines. Significant variability exists in the evaluation and management of opiate-exposed newborns in Maryland. Validated, evidence-based guidelines are needed to standardize the care of these vulnerable newborns across all hospital settings.
A Prospective Study of Rotavirus Diarrhea in Children under 1 Year of Age
Authors: Misra Sudipta , Sabui Tapas K. , Basu Swati , Pal Nishith
Published: June 2007

The aim of this study was to document the changing clinical profile and prognosis of acute diarrhea in infants. This was a prospective observational study with follow-up. Demographic, anthropometric, and clinical data were collected in children younger than 1 year with acute diarrhea. Stool was examined under the microscope, cultured, tested for presence of reducing substance and occult blood, and subjected to electrophoresis to detect rotavirus infection. Thirty-one (91.2%) of the 34 infants were breastfed, 18 exclusively and 13 partially. Twenty-three had rotavirus infection and had slower nutritional recovery than others. There was no difference in the incidence of rotavirus infection between exclusively and partially breastfed infants. Continuation of feeds containing lactose did not affect prognosis, though 23 (67.6%) infants had reducing substance in stool. We documented a high incidence of rotavirus infection, which negatively affected growth of infants by some ill-defined mechanism. Failure of exclusive breastfeeding to protect against rotavirus infection highlights the need for universal rotavirus vaccination. Lactose malabsorption detected in many infants did not affect prognosis after acute diarrhea.
Intrapelvic Migration with Long-term Retention of a Rectal Thermometer: A Case Report
Authors: Chiu Wen-Kuan , Hsiao Cheng-Wen , Kang Jung-Cheng , Feng Jan-Jen , Chao Pei-Chieh , Jao Shu-Wen
Published: June 2007

Rectal perforation is a serious complication of manipulation of the anus and rectum, with catheters and thermometers. Such procedures should be performed with caution. We report a case of a 19-year-old male with retention of an intrapelvic foreign body, a mercury thermometer, which after perforating the rectum migrated into the pelvis and remained there without any symptoms for the next 7 years. A mercury thermometer, broken into 2 fragments, retained in the pelvis was noted accidentally by pelvic roentgenogram examination. An extrinsic thermometer tip over the upper rectal region was palpable by digital rectal examination. On physical examination, no infections or signs of peritonitis were observed. There were no significant abnormal findings by flexible colonoscopy. Computed tomography revealed a foreign body retained in the pelvis. Blood mercury level and a 24-hour urinary measurement of mercury were within normal limits. The patient refused any further treatment since he did not have any discomfort. The patient was in good condition and had not had surgery in the preceding 7 years.
Use of Enhanced Body Mass Index Charts During the Pediatric Health Supervision Visit Increases Physician Recognition of Overweight Patients
Authors: Gilbert Michael J. , Fleming Michael F.
Published: June 2007

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends counseling about obesity-specific topics and measuring body mass index (BMI) at all health supervision visits. The authors compared the rates of overweight diagnosis and physician counseling at 2 clinics, one using color-coded BMI charts. The authors interviewed patients and reviewed their charts for differences in diagnosis and counseling rates. They also retrospectively compared age- and physician-matched charts pre- and postintervention, reviewing them for diagnosis of overweight. Intervention patients were more likely to have their BMI discussed (53/77 vs 3/70, P < .0001) and be identified as overweight both prospectively (8/10 vs 1/8, P = .015) and in the authors' matched chart review (8/10 vs 1/10, P = .005). Discussion rates of obesity-related topics such as nutrition, physical activity, and media time did not differ. BMI charts increase overweight patient identification by pediatricians. Further research is needed on the benefits of earlier overweight identification and best counseling methods for promoting healthy weight.
Specialty Differences in Prescribing Inhaled Corticosteroids for Children
Authors: Cabana Michael D. , Abu-Isa Heba , Thyne Shannon M. , Yawn Barbara
Published: June 2007

Prescription of daily inhaled corticosteroids for children with persistent asthma is infrequent compared with national practice guidelines. The authors conducted a national, cross-sectional survey of pediatricians and family physicians to identify specialty differences and factors associated with physician nonadherence to National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute guidelines for prescribing inhaled corticosteroids. Adherence was defined as following the recommendation for >90% of cases. Response rate was 49% (343/694). Pediatrician and family physicians reported similar rates of adherence (54% vs 51%). Pediatricians and family physicians reported different barriers. Although both groups indicated that parent hesitancy and nonadherence were common barriers, the most common barrier for family physicians was a perceived cost of the asthma medications for families. Pediatricians were more likely to indicate that lack of time (21% vs 10%) was a barrier to prescribing inhaled corticosteroids. In multivariate logistic analysis, the lack of a family/practice barrier (odds ratio, 0.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.13, 0.55) and physician agreement with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommendation (odds ratio, 4.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.43, 12.3) was associated with self-reported adherence. Interventions to improve prescribing of inhaled corticosteroids should include strategies to address issues specific to pediatricians and family physicians.
Pertussis Symptoms in Adolescents and Children Versus Infants: The Influence of Vaccination and Age
Authors: Eidlitz-Markus Tal , Mimouni Marc , Zeharia Avraham
Published: June 2007

This study compared the influence of age and immunization status on symptoms in pediatric patients with pertussis. The files of 60 children, aged 7 to 18 years and 20 infants aged up to 6 months, admitted to our pediatric hospital with a diagnosis of pertussis were reviewed. There were no between-group differences in day and night cough or vomiting. The older group had a longer mean interval to diagnosis than the infants, and the infant group had more symptoms of whooping cough, facial redness during cough, cyanosis, a higher white blood count, a higher percentage of lymphocytes, and more abnormal chest X-rays. Statistically significant differences were found between vaccinated and unvaccinated older children for whooping cough and white blood cell count. Daytime and nighttime coughs are common symptoms of pertussis in all pediatric age groups, regardless of vaccination status. High white blood count is related to immunization status, and percentage of lymphocytes is related to age. In infants, symptoms are more grave but are typical, leading to early diagnosis.
Natural-Resource Wealth and the Survival of Autocracy
Authors: Ulfelder Jay
Published: June 2007

Does natural-resource wealth impede transitions to democracy? This article revisits this question with an event history design that differs from the approach used in other recent statistical tests of rentier state theory. The research confirms that autocracy is typically more durable in countries with substantial resource wealth, and the author finds this effect is robust to other measures proposed to explain the dearth of democracy in the Middle East or the Muslim world. Along the way, the author raises concerns about the use of all-countries and all-years samples to test theories of democratization, arguing that this design can obscure important differences in the forces driving stability and change among different types of political regimes.
What's for Dinner?
Authors: Kurzer Paulette , Cooper Alice
Published: June 2007

In this article, the authors examine why member states of the EU-15 differ in their hostility with regards to genetically modified crops and food. The authors trace this variation to two variables. First, they examine the impact of the presence (or absence) of alternative food production regimes and food traditions. If a vigorous eco-farming or regional food specialties sector exists, environmental and consumer associations can cement a strategic alliance with small farmers' organizations. This green-green bloc generally manages to heighten public resistance to genetically modified crops and food and thereby to exert strong influence on national policy makers. The second variable is the biotech industry, which, if strong enough, can usually prevail against even a strong green-green bloc.
Democratization and Electoral Reform in the Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Reilly Benjamin
Published: June 2007

During the past two decades, numerous Asia-Pacific states have made transitions to democracy founded on basic political liberties and freely contested elections. A little-noticed consequence of this process has been strikingly congruent reforms to key political institutions such as electoral systems, political parties, and parliaments. Across the region, these reforms have been motivated by common aims of promoting government stability, reducing political fragmentation, and limiting the potential for new entrants to the party system. As a result, similar strategies of institutional design are evident in the increasing prevalence of “mixed-member majoritarian” electoral systems, new political party laws favoring the development of aggregative party systems, and constraints on the enfranchisement of regional or ethnic minorities. Comparing the outcomes of these reforms with those of other world regions, there appears to be an increasing convergence on an identifiable “Asian model” of electoral democracy.
What Reform Left Behind
Authors: Mac Iver Martha Abele
Published: June 2007

This article presents a longitudinal case study of an urban high school as it transitioned from one comprehensive reform model to another over a 10-year period. The study is based on qualitative interview data and quantitative data on student outcomes. Despite evidence of improved student outcomes during this reform period, the school could not meet state-mandated improvement goals because of the large proportion of students who entered with already longstanding patterns of low attendance and low achievement prior to high school. Addressing these deep structural issues will require a more systemic, rather than school-centered, focus.
Race, Narrative Inquiry, and Self-Study in Curriculum and Teacher Education
Authors: Milner H. Richard
Published: June 2007

Narrative inquiry and self-study are used as analytic and conceptual lenses to examine the author's teacher education course where he attempted to introduce the relevance and centrality of race and racism in society and thus education. Implications of the study point to the important role of personal experiences in curriculum development and implementation. The narrative can prove effective in breaking down barriers of resistance around muted and what seem to be taboo topics—race and racism in education. In addition, self-study is critical to the learning of teacher educators and should be used to help build and expand our knowledge in the teaching of race and racism in teacher education for the benefit of all students in P-12 classrooms, particularly those in urban contexts.
Parent Involvement in an Alternative School for Students at Risk of Educational Failure
Authors: Brown Lionel H. , Beckett Kelvin S.
Published: June 2007

This case study contributes to a small but growing literature on alternative schools for at-risk students. Previous studies have been strong on participant narrative and advice for stakeholders, but have lacked theoretical and historical contextualization and are unlikely to have much impact on school policy. The present study focuses on the efforts of teachers and parents to build and sustain a successful remedial school for elementary and middle school students. It is argued that school districts should establish remedial schools, as they have other alternative schools, on a permanent basis. The case study also contributes to the much larger body of literature on parent involvement in schools. The study shows how middle-class White teachers and African American and urban Appalachian parents overcame barriers associated with socioeconomic class and ethnicity and became partners in building a home-school learning community that helped at-risk students prepare themselves for a more promising future.
School—Police Partnership Effectiveness in Urban Schools: An Analysis of New York City's Impact Schools Initiative
Authors: Brady Kevin P. , Balmer Sharon , Phenix Deinya
Published: June 2007

Despite nationwide decreases in school crime and violence, a relatively high and increasing number of students report feeling unsafe at school. In response, some school officials are implementing school—police partnerships, especially in urban areas, as an effort to deter criminal activity and violence in schools. This article examines the initial effect of New York City's Impact Schools Initiative, a punitive-based school—police partnership developed in January 2004 that increases police presence at some of the city's most dangerous public schools. An initial examination of school-level demographic and environmental variables reveals that, despite increased police presence, students enrolled at New York City's impact schools continue to experience higher than average problems linked directly to future criminality, including more student suspensions and lower attendance rates than other New York City Schools. The data also reveal that relative to other New York City public schools, impact schools are more crowded and receive less funding.
The Influence of Teacher Preparation on Student Achievement and the Application of National Standards by Teachers of Mathematics in Urban Secondary Schools
Authors: Gimbert Belinda , Bol Linda , Wallace Denelle
Published: June 2007

The influence of traditional and alternative teacher preparation programs on student achievement and instruction in high-need urban secondary schools was investigated through a mixed-method comparative design. Three research questions were addressed: (a) Does the type of teacher training influence the academic achievement of students in mathematics? (b) Does teacher preparation influence the implementation of the process standards set forth by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics? (c) Does the frequency with which teachers use process and content standards influence student achievement? Data from the standardized state test and district level quarterly assessments revealed a significant difference favoring the alternative preparation teachers on two measures of student achievement as well as the use of standard-driven instructional strategies. The findings suggest that alternative teacher preparation programs are a viable avenue to explore in meeting the needs of public schools for providing qualified teachers in mathematics classrooms at the middle and high school levels.
Beyond the Rhetoric
Authors: Bempechat Janine , Boulay Beth A. , Piergross Stephanie C. , Wenk Kenzie A.
Published: June 2007

This study examines the achievement beliefs of urban adolescents enrolled in two Catholic high schools. Qualitative analysis of individual interviews revealed that these students endorse a strong sense of personal responsibility in their own learning, adhere to adaptive beliefs about difficulty and challenge in learning, and perceive their schools as caring environments in which teachers take a deep interest in both their academic and psychosocial well-being. Results suggest that educational reform efforts can be enhanced with a greater understanding of the motivational advantage associated with Catholic education. The authors argue that concerns over self-selection should not hinder researchers' attempts to understand the factors underlying the achievement of Catholic school students.
Noncognitive Variables in College Admissions
Authors: Thomas Lisa L. , Kuncel Nathan R. , Credé Marcus
Published: June 2007

The Non-Cognitive Questionnaire (NCQ) is a 23-item measure assessing eight noncognitive variables that are thought to predict the performance and retention of students in college. The NCQ is widely used in research and practice. This study is a meta-analytic review of the validity of scores on the NCQ across 47 independent samples for predicting academic outcomes ( N = 9,321). Across all analyses, none of the scales of the NCQ are adequate predictors of GPA or persistence in college. Based on their evaluation of the NCQ, the authors recommend against its use for research or practice.
Computerizing Organizational Attitude Surveys
Authors: Mueller Karsten , Liebig Christian , Hattrup Keith
Published: June 2007

Two quasi-experimental field studies were conducted to evaluate the psychometric equivalence of computerized and paper-and-pencil job satisfaction measures. The present research extends previous work in the area by providing better control of common threats to validity in quasi-experimental research on test mode effects and by evaluating a more comprehensive measurement model for job attitudes. Results of both studies demonstrated substantial equivalence of the computerized measure with the paper-and-pencil version. Implications for the practical use of computerized organizational attitude surveys are discussed.
A Test of the Age-Based Measurement Invariance and Temporal Stability of Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence Scale
Authors: Richardson Chris G. , Ratner Pamela A. , Zumbo Bruno D.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this investigation was to test the age-related measurement invariance and temporal stability of the 13-item version of Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC). Multigroup structural equation modeling of longitudinal data from the Canadian National Population Health Survey was used to examine the measurement invariance across 3 age groups (19 to 25 years, n = 1,257; 30 to 55 years, n = 5,326; and ≥60 years, n = 2,213) and to compare the stability of the SOC scores obtained in 1994 and 1998 in the same participants. The results support the age-related structural invariance of the scale. Differences in the latent means and stability coefficients obtained for the three age groups provide weak to moderate support for the stability of SOC scores over time in the general population of Canada.
Measuring Goal Orientation in a Work Domain
Authors: Baranik Lisa E. , Barron Kenneth E. , Finney Sara J.
Published: June 2007

The current research extended the three-factor (mastery, performance-approach, and performance-avoidance) measure of achievement goals in a work domain to the four-factor conceptualization (in a 2 × 2 framework) by adding items to represent mastery-avoidance goals. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on two independent samples to evaluate the dimensionality of scores. Results from both samples indicated that after dropping 5 problematic mastery-avoidance items, responses to a reduced 18-item version of the instrument fit a four-factor model well. In addition, initial support for each of the four goal orientations having a unique relationship to theoretically related external criteria was found.
Setting the Response Time Threshold Parameter to Differentiate Solution Behavior From Rapid-Guessing Behavior
Authors: Kong Xiaojing J. , Wise Steven L. , Bhola Dennison S.
Published: June 2007

This study compared four methods for setting item response time thresholds to differentiate rapid-guessing behavior from solution behavior. Thresholds were either (a) common for all test items, (b) based on item surface features such as the amount of reading required, (c) based on visually inspecting response time frequency distributions, or (d) statistically estimated using a two-state mixture model. The thresholds were compared using the criteria proposed by Wise and Kong to establish the reliability and validity of response time effort scores, which were generated on the basis of the specified threshold values. The four methods yielded very similar results, indicating that response time effort is not very sensitive to the particular threshold identification method used. Recommendations are given regarding use of the various methods.