bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obtaining malignant melanoma indicators through statistical analysis of 3D skin surface disruptions
Authors: Ding Yi , Smith Lyndon , Smith Melvyn , Sun Jiuai , Warr Robert
Published: June 2009

Background/purpose: It has been observed that disruptions in skin patterns are larger for malignant melanoma (MM) than benign lesions. In order to extend the classification results achieved for 2D skin patterns, this work intends to investigate the feasibility of lesion classification using 3D skin surface texture, in the form of surface normals acquired from a previously built six‐light photometric stereo device.

Material and methods: The proposed approach seeks to separate MM from benign lesions through analysis of the degree of surface disruptions in the tilt and slant direction of surface normals, so called skin tilt pattern and skin slant pattern. A 2D Gaussian function is used to simulate a normal region of skin for comparison with a lesion's observed tilt and slant patterns. The differences associated with the two patterns are estimated as the disruptions in the tilt and slant pattern respectively for lesion classification.

Results: Preliminary studies on 11 MMs and 28 benign lesions have given Receiver operating characteristic areas of 0.73 and 0.85 for tilt and slant pattern, respectively, which are better than 0.65 previously obtained for the skin line direction using the same samples.

Conclusions: This paper has demonstrated an important application of 3D skin texture for computer‐assisted diagnosis of MM in vivo. By taking advantage of the extra dimensional information, preliminary studies suggest that some improvements over the existing 2D skin line pattern approach for the differentiation between MM and benign lesions.
Detection of basal cell carcinoma using color and histogram measures of semitranslucent areas
Authors: Stoecker William V. , Gupta Kapil , Shrestha Bijaya , Wronkiewiecz Mark , Chowdhury Raeed , Stanley R. Joe , Xu Jin , Moss Randy H. , Celebi M. Emre , Rabinovitz Harold S. , Oliviero Margarat , Malters Joseph M. , Kolm Isabel
Published: June 2009

Background: Semitranslucency, defined as a smooth, jelly‐like area with varied, near‐skin‐tone color, can indicate a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) with high specificity. This study sought to analyze potential areas of semitranslucency with histogram‐derived texture and color measures to discriminate BCC from non‐semitranslucent areas in non‐BCC skin lesions.

Methods: For 210 dermoscopy images, the areas of semitranslucency in 42 BCCs and comparable areas of smoothness and color in 168 non‐BCCs were selected manually. Six color measures and six texture measures were applied to the semitranslucent areas of the BCC and the comparable areas in the non‐BCC images.

Results: Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the texture measures alone provided greater separation of BCC from non‐BCC than the color measures alone. Statistical analysis showed that the four most important measures of semitranslucency are three histogram measures: contrast, smoothness, and entropy, and one color measure: blue chromaticity. Smoothness is the single most important measure. The combined 12 measures achieved a diagnostic accuracy of 95.05% based on area under the ROC curve.

Conclusion: Texture and color analysis measures, especially smoothness, may afford automatic detection of BCC images with semitranslucency.
Sagging of the cheek is related to skin elasticity, fat mass and mimetic muscle function
Authors: Ezure T. , Hosoi J. , Amano S. , Tsuchiya T.
Published: June 2009

Background/purpose: Facial sagging is associated with aging, although the mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of facial sagging by examining the relationship of sagging severity to changes of skin elasticity, fat mass and facial muscle function at the cheek.

Methods: Faces of 108 healthy Japanese female volunteers, aged 20–60 years were photographed at an angle of 45°. Standard scores of sagging severity were established by analyzing the photographs. We examined the correlations of scored sagging levels with skin elasticity measured with a Cutometer MPA 580®, fat content estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis and facial muscle function (lip sealing force and occlusal force) in middle‐aged female volunteers (30–40 years) with a wide range of sagging scores.

Results: Because the upper, lower and lateral areas in the cheek may show severe sagging, a six‐grade score of sagging severity was separately established for each area. Each score was significantly correlated positively with age (20–60 years). In middle‐aged volunteers, the sagging scores in all three areas of the cheek were significantly and negatively associated with skin elasticity. Body fat percentage was significantly and positively correlated with the sagging scores in the lower and lateral areas, although the correlation was only weakly positive in the upper area. Mimetic muscle function, measured in terms of lip sealing pressure, was significantly and negatively correlated with the sagging score only at the upper area of the cheek, but masticatory muscle function, measured in terms of occlusal force pressure, was not associated with the sagging score.

Conclusions: Sagging may be associated with the reduction of skin elasticity and mimetic muscle function and increase of fat mass, but the relationships are different in different areas of the cheek.
Effect of individualized weight‐loss programmes on adiponectin, leptin and resistin levels in obese adolescent boys
Authors: Elloumi M , Ben Ounis O , Makni E , Van Praagh E , Tabka Z , Lac G
Published: June 2009

Aim:  We investigate the effects of a 2‐month weight‐loss programme on plasma levels of adiponectin, leptin and resistin in obese adolescent boys.

Methods:  Twenty‐one obese adolescent boys (BMI = 30.8 ± 3.2 kg/m2) completed the weight‐loss programme including: 1/ either energy restriction (R), 2/ or individualized exercise training at the point of maximum lipid oxidation (Lipoxmax) (E), 3/ or energy restriction and training (RE). Body composition, lipid oxidation and plasma levels of adiponectin, leptin and resistin were measured before and after intervention.

Results:  Following the weight‐loss programme, adolescents of the RE group showed an improvement of their body composition (p < 0.01), an increase in plasma adiponectin (+73.7%, p < 0.01) and a decrease in plasma leptin (−38.8%, p < 0.01) leading to an increase in adiponectine/leptin ratio (ALR, +144.4%, p < 0.01) higher than the R or E groups. E and RE groups only showed a similar significant increase in plasma resistin (p < 0.05) and a significant improvement of lipid oxidation rate at Lipoxmax (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). In addition, in RE group, ALR is correlated with waist/hip and waist/height ratios, resistin level, homoeostasis mode assessment (HOMA‐IR) index and Lipoxmax.

Conclusion:  In obese adolescents boys, moderate exercise training completed at Lipoxmax and combined with energy restriction improves their ability to oxidize lipids, which is associated with a normalization of their adiponectin, leptin and resistin levels resulting in an improved insulin sensitivity, as attested by a higher ALR and a lower HOMA‐IR.
Physical activity, sports participation and aerobic fitness in children who have undergone surgery for congenital heart defects
Authors: Arvidsson D , Slinde F , Hulthén L , Sunnegårdh J
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To investigate physical activity, sports participation and aerobic fitness in children who have undergone surgery for congenital heart defects.

Subjects and methods:  Children who had undergone surgery for congenital heart defects and healthy controls in the Gothenburg area were invited to participate in the study. All participants were aged 9–11 or 14–16 years. The activity monitor ActiReg was used to assess physical activity. Participants were interviewed about their participation in sports and performed a maximal exercise test on a bicycle with measured oxygen uptake.

Results:  A total of 32 and 25 patients, and 61 and 45 controls, in the two age‐groups were included, respectively. The patients had a wide range of severity of congenital heart defects. The physical activity level was similar in the patients and the controls. The rate of sports participation was high for both patients and controls; 80–94% of all participants took part in sports at least once a week. The majority of the patients were considered to have at least a moderate level of aerobic fitness.

Conclusions:  Although children who have undergone surgery for congenital heart defects have a similar level of physical activity compared with that of healthy children, some of them may require support to participate in exercise and vigorous physical activity.
COLOR IN DENTISTRY: IMPROVING THE ODDS OF CORRECT SHADE SELECTION
Authors: Paravina Rade D. , Swift Jr. Edward J.
Published: June 2009

This Critical Appraisal focuses on how well dental shade guides correspond to the color range and distribution of natural teeth. In other words, we will discuss “chances” of shade guides to match shades of human teeth and demonstrate alternatives.
A Conservative Treatment for Amelogenesis Imperfecta with Direct Resin Composite Restorations: A Case Report
Authors: SABATINI CAMILA , GUZMÁN‐ARMSTRONG SANDRA
Published: June 2009

Rehabilitation of a patient with amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) from both the functional and esthetic standpoints represents a challenge. The complexity of the condition requires an interdisciplinary approach for optimal treatment outcomes. A number of treatment options have been proposed. Recently, the use of bonded restorations has gained popularity because of the many benefits associated with these materials; excellent esthetics, conservative approach, and improved wear make their use advantageous. This article describes a direct approach with resin composite restorations for the transitional treatment of an adolescent with hypoplastic AI who had not completed skeletal growth. Protection against further wear, sensitivity, and plaque accumulation while significantly enhancing the patient's esthetic appearance made this case a success. Furthermore, this article describes the use of a “Clear matrix” technique, which considerably helped simplify the placement of the bonded restorations.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This article highlights (1) the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to the successful treatment planning of a patient with hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta (AI), and (2) the conservativeness and suitability of full coverage direct resin composite restorations for the transitional treatment of AI‐affected teeth on an adolescent patient who has not yet completed skeletal growth.
Correlation between the Individual and the Combined Width of the Six Maxillary Anterior Teeth
Authors: GONÇALVES LUIZ CARLOS , GOMES VANDERLEI LUIZ , DE LIMA LUCAS BARBARA , MONTEIRO SILAS BORGES
Published: June 2009

Purpose:  There is a consensus in the community of dental research that the selection of undersized artificial maxillary anterior teeth offers an unnatural appearance to the denture. Several methods to select the adequate width of these teeth are of questionable validity, and many dentures have an obviously artificial appearance. This article assessed the relationship between the individual and the combined width of maxillary anterior teeth.

Materials and Methods:  Impressions were made of the anterior dentition of 69 dentate undergraduate students with rubber impression silicon, and casts were formed. The individual widths of the maxillary anterior teeth were measured by using a digital caliper (SC‐6 digital caliper, Mitutoyo Corporation, Tokyo, Japan), and the combined width was registered by both adding the individual width and using a flexible millimeter ruler.

Results:  Student's t‐test showed significant differences between the analogous teeth and different sides of the maxillary dental arch (p = 0.001), with the exception of the central incisor (p = 0.984). Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient showed significant positive correlation between all the measurements compared (p = 0.000). Linear regression analysis concluded three mathematical equations to obtain the individual tooth width after measuring the combined width of the six maxillary anterior teeth by using a flexible millimeter ruler.

Conclusions:  The individual tooth width can be determined if the combined width of the maxillary anterior teeth is obtained by using a flexible millimeter ruler.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The adequate selection of each maxillary anterior tooth width can offer variance and individuality to the denture, particularly for partially dentate patients. By offering an adequate tooth‐to‐tooth relationship, the esthetic result of the oral rehabilitation treatment can be improved.
Original Sin or Original Sinfulness?
Authors: Fitzpatrick Joseph
Published: June 2009

In the first of four articles, I argue against Augustine's interpretation of Genesis chapter 3 and his account of the origin of the first sin and its consequences. In the remaining three articles, I offer an alternative interpretation of Genesis 3 within the context of Genesis 1–11, attempting to do more justice than Augustine to the data of scripture and, in particular, placing a strong emphasis on the speech of the Lord God at the end of Genesis 3. My argument is supported by reference to Mary Douglas's Purity and Danger. I do not minimise the amount of sin in the world but account for it on the basis of what I call the basic human situation rather than on the basis of a single cataclysmic act. I present my account as grounded in a more accurate understanding of scripture than Augustine's and in a richer and deeper version of salvation history. One conclusion is that the default setting of humanity is not damnation but that Man still stands in need of salvation.
Double Effect
Authors: Wicker Brian
Published: June 2009

Any killing of the innocent intrinsic to nuclear deterrence strategy (admitted as unavoidable by Michael Quinlan), is often excused as a side effect, not directly intended, of any proposed use of nuclear weapons. As such, he claimed, it can be ‘morally tolerable’. Quite apart from the systematic ambiguity of this phrase, I argue the claim itself is fallacious, depending as it does on the right choice of description of the proposed action. The appropriate description of any action, and hence of any command, to use a nuclear bomb will unavoidably entail intentionally killing innocents along with combatants. I argue thus by analysing the implications of an example of ‘double effect’ suggested by Michael Quinlan himself. If I am right, the injustice of deterrence strategy is stupendous.
Modular kinetic analysis reveals differences in Cd2+ and Cu2+ ion‐induced impairment of oxidative phosphorylation in liver
Authors: Ciapaite Jolita , Nauciene Zita , Baniene Rasa , Wagner Marijke J. , Krab Klaas , Mildaziene Vida
Published: June 2009

Impaired mitochondrial function contributes to copper‐ and cadmium‐induced cellular dysfunction. In this study, we used modular kinetic analysis and metabolic control analysis to assess how Cd2+ and Cu2+ ions affect the kinetics and control of oxidative phosphorylation in isolated rat liver mitochondria. For the analysis, the system was modularized in two ways: (a) respiratory chain, phosphorylation and proton leak; and (b) coenzyme Q reduction and oxidation, with the membrane potential (Δψ) and fraction of reduced coenzyme Q as the connecting intermediate, respectively. Modular kinetic analysis results indicate that both Cd2+ and Cu2+ ions inhibited the respiratory chain downstream of coenzyme Q. Moreover, Cu2+, but not Cd2+ ions stimulated proton leak kinetics at high Δψ values. Further analysis showed that this difference can be explained by Cu2+ ion‐induced production of reactive oxygen species and membrane lipid peroxidation. In agreement with modular kinetic analysis data, metabolic control analysis showed that Cd2+ and Cu2+ ions increased control of the respiratory and phosphorylation flux by the respiratory chain module (mainly because of an increase in the control exerted by cytochrome bc1 and cytochrome c oxidase), decreased control by the phosphorylation module and increased negative control of the phosphorylation flux by the proton leak module. In summary, we showed that there is a subtle difference in the mode of action of Cd2+ and Cu2+ ions on the mitochondrial function, which is related to the ability of Cu2+ ions to induce reactive oxygen species production and lipid peroxidation.
Hyphal cell walls from the plant pathogen Rhynchosporium secalis contain (1,3/1,6)‐β‐d‐glucans, galacto‐ and rhamnomannans, (1,3;1,4)‐β‐d‐glucans and chitin
Authors: Pettolino Filomena , Sasaki Izumi , Turbic Alisa , Wilson Sarah M. , Bacic Antony , Hrmova Maria , Fincher Geoffrey B.
Published: June 2009

A procedure has been developed for the isolation of cell walls from the hyphae of the causal agent for barley leaf scald, Rhynchosporium secalis (Oudem) J.J. Davis. Based primarily on monosaccharide linkage analysis, but also on the limited use of linkage‐specific glucan hydrolases and solvent fractionation, the walls consist predominantly of (1,3/1,6)‐β‐d‐glucans, (1,3;1,4)‐β‐d‐glucans, galactomannans of (1,2;1,6)‐Manp residues and (1,5)‐galactofuranosyl [(1,5)‐Galf] side chains, rhamnomannans of (1,6)‐Manp residues and rhamnopyranosyl [(1,2)‐Rhap] side chains, and chitin; the walls also contain ≈23% (w/w) protein. Electron microscopy shows the presence of distinct inner and outer wall layers. Treatment of wall preparations with guanidine hydrochloride dissolves the outer layer and enables separate analysis of the inner and outer walls. The insoluble, inner wall layer is composed of (1,3/1,6)‐β‐d‐glucans, galacto‐ and rhamnomannans, (1,3;1,4)‐β‐d‐glucans and chitin, whereas the soluble outer wall material contains a high proportion of rhamnomannan, and smaller proportions of galactomannan, (1,3;1,4)‐β‐d‐glucan and (1,3/1,6)‐β‐d‐glucan with only trace levels of chitin. It was confirmed by immunochemical and enzymatic analysis that at least a portion of the (1,3;1,4)‐β‐d‐glucan component of the inner wall exists as a (1,3;1,4)‐β‐d‐glucan. The analyses not only provide information that is important for a complete understanding of the interactions between R. secalis and barley, but they also identify potential targets for the development of fungicides or resistant transgenic barley varieties.
TRADE UNIONS UNDER THE MODERNIZATION OF PATERNALIST RULE IN CHINA
Authors: Zhang Xiaodan
Published: June 2009

This article examines the organizational structure and functions of trade unions in China today. Previous literature on Chinese trade unions has focused on the debate over whether or not the organizations serve workers' interests, and whether or not they are independent from the state apparatus. Based on ethnographic interviews and document analysis, I present three major findings: (1) unions are not independent from the state, but the changing role of the state enables unions to promote workers' legal rights and welfare; (2) unions are no longer monolithic; there is a discrepancy between the rhetoric of government unions and the practice of enterprise unions; and (3) the absence of independent workers' organizations leaves workers no choice but to rely on the state and unions for protection and social justice. I argue that the dominant paternalistic ideology, clothed in modern rhetoric, is key to understanding these findings.
VICTORY AND THE PROMISE OF REFORM: LABOR AND THE 2008 ELECTION
Authors: Beachler Donald W.
Published: June 2009

Unions worked very hard to elect Barack Obama in 2008. Labor leaders made a concerted effort to counter defections to Republican John McCain among white workers, who some commentators predicted would be reluctant to vote for an African‐American candidate. Obama received 59 percent of the vote from those residing in union households. This was precisely the share of the labor vote won by the Democratic presidential nominee in 1996, 2000, and 2004. The Obama victory and expanded Democratic majorities in the House and the Senate enhanced the prospects for the passage of the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). This legislation would facilitate union organizing in the U.S. Despite Democratic control of the executive and legislative branches, the ferocious opposition to EFCA by business interests made it difficult to predict the fate of EFCA in early 2009.
INSTITUTIONAL OBSTACLES TO RN UNIONIZATION: HOW “VOTE NO” THINKING IS DEEPLY EMBEDDED IN THE NURSING PROFESSION
Authors: Gordon Suzanne
Published: June 2009

The essay examines private sector unionization in the U.S., arguing that elections for representation frequently are unfairly unbalanced against supporters of union representation. Given that hospital administrators typically harbor an antiunion bias, with few exceptions, representation elections are permeated with employer propaganda to ensure their institutions remain nonunion. Passage of the Employee Free Choice Act would significantly improve the capacity of nurses to organize unions of their choice through card check rules, while reducing the hospital management “vote‐no” campaigns that are highly unfavorable toward labor organizing. Unionization is a means to significantly improve conditions for nurses, who are the principle “guardians of the sick.”
TEMPORARY NATIONALIZATION: AN AUTO BAILOUT WITH A BRIDGE TO A GREEN VEHICLE FUTURE
Authors: Nealis Wayne
Published: June 2009

The current debate over what to do in response to the crisis in the American auto industry lacks the type of creative solutions, initiatives, and timeliness demanded by the rapid, global move toward new vehicle propulsion and fuel systems. One way to take advantage of this opportunity is for the U.S. Government to purchase and temporarily nationalize the Big Three automakers' redundant plants and then quickly put them on the world market for lease to any producer ready to build electric, hybrid, high fuel efficiency, or alternative fuel vehicles. The (U.S. auto) companies would get a cash infusion in lieu of loans, could retain ownership of selected plants, or optionally sell them (to the government) and operate them on a lease back agreement. The highly skilled American workforce and the enormous size of our green vehicle market are tremendous incentives for innovative new domestic producers and dozens of global manufacturers to reuse redundant auto plants.
Patients’ Sexual Health: A Qualitative Research Approach on Greek Nurses’ Perceptions
Authors: Nakopoulou Evangelia , Papaharitou Stamatis , Hatzichristou Dimitris
Published: June 2009

Introduction

Health care professionals, especially nurses, through their contact with patients, play an important role in encouraging discussions about sexual concerns.

Aim

To explore perceptions on sexual health issues and how these might inhibit or enhance Greek nurses’ ability to incorporate sexual health assessment into everyday practice.

Main Outcome Measures

A discussion guide was used as checklist to ensure that the basic issues would be addressed. Topics related to the areas of interest were either brought up from the participants or introduced by the moderator.

Methods

The study recruited a purposive sample of 44 Greek staff nurses (SN) attending a course leading to their professional upgrading. A qualitative research design was employed using seven focus groups. Discussions started with nurses’ perceived definitions of sexual health and proceeded with open-ended questions. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis based on the principles of grounded theory.

Results

Three central themes were identified from transcripts’ thematic analysis: subjective perception of sexual health, discussing sexual problems, and educational and training needs. Participants’ perceptions of sexual health centred mainly on the emotional and somatic dimensions. Regarding clinical practice, a variety of personal and contextual reasons limit nurses’ willingness to talk about sexuality with patients, such as gender and age differences, familial upbringing, lack of time and privacy, and restricted perception of nursing role. All nurses stressed the need for further specialized training not only in physiology issues related to sexuality, but also most importantly in communication skills.

Conclusions

Although Greek nurses acknowledge the importance of sexual health assessment, they believe that sexual history taking is not within the range of their professional tasks. Since holistic care demands sexual health assessment and intervention to be an integral part of nursing practice, it is necessary to introduce courses in their curriculum and experiential workshops addressing the multidimensionality of sexuality.
Prevalence and Impact of Vaginal Symptoms Among Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Santoro Nanette , Komi Janne
Published: June 2009

Introduction

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is reported by one-quarter to one-half of postmenopausal women.

Aim

We evaluated the prevalence, inconvenience of, and issues surrounding hormone use for VVA symptoms in women who were current, past, and never users of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), along with the relationship of sexual activity to VVA symptoms.

Methods

An online survey was sent to 3,471 women ≥45 years old participating in a panel of approximately 43,000 U.S. adults maintained by Knowledge Networks. Respondents were stratified by MHT use (current, past, and never) and sexual activity (sexually active and not sexually active). Final respondent data underwent a poststratification process and Chi-square analysis of hormone use and VVA by sexual activity.

Main Outcome Measures

Percent, calculated as the ratio of response over total responding for each survey question for all and stratified respondents.

Results

Forty-five percent (1,038/2,290) of respondents (age range 45–89 years; mean 60.7 years) were postmenopausal and currently or previously experienced VVA. Approximately 60% of past or never users of MHT reported vaginal symptoms; >90% found them bothersome. In comparison, 82% of current users reported VVA symptoms prior to use. 85% of all respondents were aware of safety issues associated with MHT. The prevalence and perceived severity of VVA symptoms were substantial but less frequent in nonsexually active women. Analysis of MHT use by past or current hormone use indicated a trend away from oral dosing and towards patch or vaginal hormones.

Conclusions

Postmenopausal women have a high rate of VVA symptoms. Those who use MHT do so for multiple reasons—hot flashes, VVA, bone protection, dyspareunia—and most have concerns about long-term safety, despite the fact that the majority of MHT use was for >5 years. Safety concerns and lack of physician recommendation were major reasons for not using or discontinuing MHT.
Is Teaching Experience Necessary for Reliable Scoring of Extended English Questions?
Authors: Royal‐Dawson Lucy , Baird Jo‐Anne
Published: June 2009

Hundreds of thousands of raters are recruited internationally to score examinations, but little research has been conducted on the selection criteria for these raters. Many countries insist upon teaching experience as a selection criterion and this has frequently become embedded in the cultural expectations surrounding the tests. Shortages in raters for some of England's national examinations has led to non‐teachers being hired to score a small minority of items and changes in technology have fostered this approach. For a National Curriculum test in English taken at age 14, this study investigated whether teaching experience was a necessary selection criterion for all aspects of the examination. Fifty‐seven raters with different backgrounds were trained in the normal manner and scored the same 97 students' work. Accuracy was investigated using a cross‐classified multilevel model of absolute score differences with accuracy measures at level 1 and raters crossed with candidates at level 2. By comparing the scoring accuracy of graduates with a degree in English, teacher trainees, experienced teachers and experienced raters, this study found that teaching experience was not a necessary selection criterion. A rudimentary model for allocation of raters to different question types is proposed and further research to investigate the limits of necessary qualifications for scoring is suggested.
Generalizability of Cognitive Interview‐Based Measures Across Cultural Groups
Authors: Solano‐Flores Guillermo , Li Min
Published: June 2009

We addressed the challenge of scoring cognitive interviews in research involving multiple cultural groups. We interviewed 123 fourth‐ and fifth‐grade students from three cultural groups to probe how they related a mathematics item to their personal lives. Item meaningfulness—the tendency of students to relate the content and/or context of an item to activities in which they are actors—was scored from interview transcriptions with a procedure similar to the scoring of constructed‐response tasks. Generalizability theory analyses revealed a small amount of score variation due to the main and interaction effect of rater but a sizeable magnitude of measurement error due to the interaction of person and question (context). Students from different groups tended to draw on different sets of contexts of their personal lives to make sense of the item. In spite of individual and potential cultural communication style differences, cognitive interviews can be reliably scored by well‐trained raters with the same kind of rigor used in the scoring of constructed‐response tasks. However, to make valid generalizations of cognitive interview‐based measures, a considerable number of interview questions may be needed. Information obtained with cognitive interviews for a given cultural group may not be generalizable to other groups.
Differentials of a State Reading Assessment: Item Functioning, Distractor Functioning, and Omission Frequency for Disability Categories
Authors: Kato Kentaro , Moen Ross E. , Thurlow Martha L.
Published: June 2009

Large data sets from a state reading assessment for third and fifth graders were analyzed to examine differential item functioning (DIF), differential distractor functioning (DDF), and differential omission frequency (DOF) between students with particular categories of disabilities (speech/language impairments, learning disabilities, and emotional behavior disorders) and students without disabilities. Multinomial logistic regression was employed to compare response characteristic curves (RCCs) of individual test items. Although no evidence for serious test bias was found for the state assessment examined in this study, the results indicated that students in different disability categories showed different patterns of DIF, DDF, and DOF, and that the use of RCCs helps clarify the implications of DIF and DDF.
Accommodations for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Large‐Scale, Standardized Assessments: Surveying the Landscape and Charting a New Direction
Authors: Cawthon Stephanie W. ,   The Online Research Lab
Published: June 2009

Students who are deaf or hard of hearing (SDHH) often use test accommodations when they participate in large‐scale, standardized assessments. The purpose of this article is to present findings from the Third Annual Survey of Assessment and Accommodations for Students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. The “big five” accommodations were reported by at least two‐thirds of the 389 participants: extended time, small group/individual administration, test directions interpreted, test items read aloud, and test items interpreted. In a regression analysis, language used in instruction showed the most significant effects on accommodations use. The article considers these findings in light of a more proactive role for the National Survey in providing evidence for the effectiveness of accommodations with SDHH.
On Break‐up Clichés Guiding Health Literacy's Future
Authors: FITZGERALD BONE PAULA , RUSSO FRANCE KAREN , AIKIN KATHRYN J.
Published: June 2009

With the recognized need to increase health literacy, some practices have not worked and, therefore, “should be dumped.” Herein we present alternative approaches that may increase health literacy.
Health Literacy for Improved Health Outcomes: Effective Capital in the Marketplace
Authors: ROSS ADKINS NATALIE , CORUS CANAN
Published: June 2009

Improving consumers’ health literacy addresses many of the rising problems in healthcare. We empirically support a reconceptualization of health literacy as a social and cultural practice through which adults leverage a range of skills as well as social networks to meet their needs. Pierre Bourdieu's “theory of practice” guides this reconceptualization and facilitates articulation of the array of strategies used in the complex healthcare marketplace. We focus on the low literate consumers’ alternative forms of capital and the providers’ recognition and support. The findings, from an emergent research design consisting of depth interviews with low literate consumers and healthcare providers, suggest a critical, reflective approach that enhances health literacy, empowers consumers to become partners in their own healthcare programs, and improves health outcomes.
The Roles of Gender and Motivation as Moderators of the Effects of Calorie and Nutrient Information Provision on Away‐from‐Home Foods
Authors: BATES KENNETH , BURTON SCOT , HOWLETT ELIZABETH , HUGGINS KYLE
Published: June 2009

Given substantial concern about the many negative consequences associated with the American obesity epidemic, legislation which would require chain restaurants to provide nutrition information on menus and menu boards has been proposed at the federal, state, and local levels. Two studies examine the effects of nutrition disclosure on consumer evaluations and purchase intentions while also considering potential moderating effects due to gender differences and motivation levels. Results indicate that nutrition disclosures can have an impact on consumer product evaluations and preferences, particularly for restaurant items that are less healthful than anticipated.
Using the Thrifty Food Plan to Assess the Cost of a Nutritious Diet
Authors: WILDE PARKE E. , LLOBRERA JOSEPH
Published: June 2009

The federal government's Thrifty Food Plan (TFP) minimizes the difference between a proposed food plan and a current consumption bundle, subject to cost and nutrition constraints. This article adapted the TFP framework to estimate the cost of a nutritious diet, distinguishing between nutrition constraints based on food categories (meat, vegetables) or nutrients (saturated fat, calcium). The official cost target for the TFP was sufficient if one tolerated a very high difference from current consumption patterns, or if one used nutrition standards instead of MyPyramid food category standards. In other scenarios, with different constraints, the official cost target was insufficient.
The Effectiveness of Cigarette Warning Label Threats on Nonsmoking Adolescents
Authors: SABBANE LALLA ILHAME , LOWREY TINA M. , CHEBAT JEAN‐CHARLES
Published: June 2009

This experiment investigated three levels of threat in cigarette warning labels: no warning/text warning only/text + graphic warning. Teenagers in Canada and the US were exposed to one of these labels in a web‐surfing environment. Participants surfed a website sponsored by a familiar cigarette brand or an unfamiliar cigarette brand. After surfing, three dependent measures were assessed: brand attitude, website attitude, and smoking intent. Results indicated that the graphic label was the most effective for Canadian participants, leading to negative attitudes and lower smoking intentions, but the graphic label was least effective at lowering smoking intentions for US participants.
Complex Sample Design Effects and Health Insurance Variance Estimation
Authors: NIELSEN ROBERT B. , DAVERN MICHAEL , JONES ARTHUR , BOIES JOHN L.
Published: June 2009

Fifty‐one articles using complex sample data published between 2000 and 2007 in three journals are reviewed. Of these, three articles indicate whether the analyses account for sampling design when calculating standard errors. To demonstrate how neglecting to properly calculate variances increases the probability of Type I errors, data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) are used to estimate health insurance coverage using three methods: simple random sample (SRS), generalized variance functions (GVFs), and direct estimation via replicate weights. The analysis shows that researchers using complex sample data are likely to draw improper inferences if they do not use replicate weights to estimate standard errors.
The Impact of Consumers’ Health Literacy on Public Health
Authors: LEVY MARIAN , ROYNE MARLA B.
Published: June 2009

The disturbingly low rates of health literacy in the United States translate into increased health risks across society as a whole, and vulnerable populations, in particular. The public health and economic implications of these trends are discussed, and suggestions for improving literacy are provided. If implemented, these suggestions have potential for enhancing public health and quality of life.
Health Information Consumers Can't or Don't Want to Use
Authors: ROTFELD HERBERT JACK
Published: June 2009

As a consumer education issue, health literacy asks what is needed for people to make rational informed decisions. As a consumer protection issue, it questions what information consumers can or would use and how they might use it. Unfortunately, health decisions by their basic nature often can involve information consumers can't or won't use, and no amount of education can help consumers where even the experts’ knowledge might be uncertain. Too often, the plethora of health‐based decisions become emotional reactions where the hypothetical curves of information frustration and shopping exhaustion meet.
Physical Activity Pattern of Prepubescent Filipino School Children During School Days
Authors: Gonzalez‐Suarez Consuelo B. , Grimmer‐Somers Karen
Published: June 2009

Background:  Little is known about pre‐pubescent Filipino children’s involvement in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA). There are international guidelines regarding required levels of MVPA for healthy children.

Methods:  This study describes participation of 11‐ to 12‐year‐olds in randomly selected public and private schools in San Juan, Metromanila, in MVPA and sports during a school day. The Filipino‐modified Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (F_PAQ_C) was administered in English and Filipino. Additional data was collected on sex, age, type of school, and amount of time spent using television and computers. Children’s self‐assessment of physical activities (1 question in the F_PAQ_C) was correlated with their cumulative F_PAQ_C score.

Results:  Three hundred eighty subjects (167 boys, 213 girls) participated. Participation in MVPA varied between sex and age groups, from 56.1% to 65.0%. Fewer than 10% of participants were very active. The children were more active during physical education classes than at recess or lunch, after class, or in the evening. Walking for exercise, jumping, jogging and running, free play, and dance were most common. Boys, younger children, and private school students most commonly engaged in MVPA. Self‐assessed physical activity had modest correlation (r2= 0.21) with cumulative F_PAQ_C score, after adjusting for sex, age, and school type.

Conclusion:  Most children were not physically active during the school day, except in physical education classes. To reduce the gap between recommended and current activity levels, more opportunities should be provided for preteen Filipino children to engage in MVPA during and after school.
School Disconnectedness: Identifying Adolescents at Risk in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Faulkner Guy E. J. , Adlaf Edward M. , Irving Hyacinth M. , Allison Kenneth R. , Dwyer John
Published: June 2009

Background:  There is strong theoretical and empirical support for school connectedness as an important element of healthy youth development. The primary objective of this study was to replicate previous research identifying factors differentiating youth who do not feel connected to their schools in a sample of adolescents in Ontario, Canada. A secondary objective was to extend this work by assessing whether physical activity was an additional health behavior that differentiated youth who feel connected to their schools from those who do not.

Methods:  Data for this study were based on questionnaires from 2243 grade 7 to grade 12 students derived from the 2001 cycle of the Ontario Student Drug Use Survey. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine associations between physical activity, other health risk factors, and school disconnectedness.

Results:  The odds of feeling disconnected from their schools were substantially greater for female students who perceived their health or academic performance to be poor, engaged in no vigorous physical activity, reported 3 or more physician visits during the past year, and had low extracurricular involvement. None of the sociodemographic factors or substance use measures was significantly associated with school disconnectedness for any students.

Conclusions:  Our results highlight sex differences in how school disconnectedness is related to health‐compromising behaviors such as physical inactivity. Further research is required to examine how boys and girls perceive, interpret, and internalize the school climate. Increasing school connectedness should be a consideration for academic administrators and health‐promotion advocates.
Implementation of a Walking School Bus: Lessons Learned*
Authors: Kong Alberta S. , Sussman Andrew L. , Negrete Sylvia , Patterson Nissa , Mittleman Rachel , Hough Richard
Published: June 2009

Background:  Obesity is rapidly becoming the most common chronic medical condition affecting children. To address this crisis, an Albuquerque, New Mexico, elementary school partnered with University of New Mexico researchers and conducted a Walking School Bus (WSB). The purpose of this article is to examine the feasibility of implementing a WSB.

Methods:  This pilot study featured 2 WSBs conducted for 10 weeks with kindergarten through fifth‐grade students from a predominantly Hispanic elementary school. Qualitative and quantitative data, including coordinator field notes, attendance records, surveys of student and parent satisfaction, and a focus group, were used to evaluate feasibility.

Results:  Student and adult participants expressed a high degree of enthusiasm regarding their involvement in the WSB. Participants uniformly indicated that the WSB provided a supportive and safe environment to promote social interaction and physical activity. Conducting a WSB in an urban, underserved school district is feasible but requires attention to ensure participants’ involvement and safety. In particular, it is recommended to begin the planning process early to enhance investment from key stakeholders.

Conclusion:  Effective, low‐cost interventions are increasingly desired as solutions to the problem of obesity. The WSB has emerged as a promising strategy to address obesity and encourage partnerships across different social levels. Further research is necessary to assess the logistical challenges associated with conducting a large‐scale WSB trial and whether such efforts lead to reductions in obesity risk factors.
SCHIP Directors’ Perception of Schools Assisting Students in Obtaining Public Health Insurance
Authors: Price James H. , Rickard Megan
Published: June 2009

Background:  Health insurance coverage increases access to health care. There has been an erosion of employer‐based health insurance and a concomitant rise in children covered by public health insurance programs, yet more than 8 million children are still without health insurance coverage.

Methods:  This study was a national survey to assess the perceptions of State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) directors (N = 51) regarding schools assisting students in obtaining public health insurance. This study examined the perceived benefits of and barriers to working with school systems and the perceived benefits to schools in assisting students to enroll in SCHIPs and what SCHIP activities were actually being conducted with school systems.

Results:  The majority (78%) of SCHIPs had been working with school systems for more than a year. Perceived benefits of working with schools were greater access to SCHIP‐eligible children (75%), assistance with meeting mandates to cover all SCHIP‐eligible children (65%), and greater ability of state agencies to identify SCHIP‐eligible children (58%). A majority of the directors did not identify any of the potential barrier items. The directors cited the following benefits to schools in helping enroll students in public health insurance programs: reduces the number of students with untreated health problems (80%), reduces student absenteeism rates (68%), improves student attention and concentration during school (58%), and reduces the number of students being held back in school because of health problems (53%).

Discussion:  The perceived benefits derived from schools assisting in enrolling eligible students into SCHIPs are congruent with the mission of schools. Schools need to become proactive in helping to establish a healthy student body, which is more likely to be an academically successful body.
Liver lobe torsion in three adult rabbits
Authors: Wenger S. , Barrett E. L. , Pearson G. R. , Sayers I. , Blakey C. , Redrobe S.
Published: June 2009

This paper describes three cases of liver lobe torsion in rabbits presenting with anorexia, lethargy, jaundice and abdominal pain. This condition was associated with anaemia and elevation of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and gamma‐glutamyl transferase. Abnormal radiological findings included hepatomegaly, gas‐filled intestinal loops consistent with gastrointestinal ileus and ascites. Ultrasonographic findings included heterogeneous liver parenchyma, free abdominal fluid and reduced bowel motility. Diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination of the liver in all three cases.
Presumed primary uveal melanoma with brain extension in a dog
Authors: Galán A. , Martín‐Suárez E. Ma , Molleda J. Ma , Raya A. , Gómez‐Laguna J. , Martín De Las Mulas J.
Published: June 2009

A 13‐year‐old, female, mixed, cocker spaniel was examined for a unilateral exophthalmia and protruding mass in episcleral region of the right eye. Mode B ocular ultrasonography revealed a mass extended intraocular from anterior chamber to posterior pole without evidence of extraocular extension. A presumptive diagnosis of melanocytic tumour was made. A complete blood count and chemistry and thoracic radiographs did not show any abnormal changes. The recommended treatment was enucleation, and melanocytic nature of the tumour was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Three months after surgery, the animal showed a status epilepticus refractory to treatment. Computed tomographic examination of the brain revealed changes compatibles with a tumour. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was normal. Because of the poor clinical prognosis, the owners elected to have the dog euthanased.
Septal myocardial abscess in a male great Anglo‐French hound
Authors: Lange E. , Beaudu‐Lange C.
Published: June 2009

We report the diagnosis and follow‐up of a septal myocardial abscess in a seven‐year‐old Anglo‐French hound suffering from both renal failure and urinary infection. Serial echocardiography showed the abscess enlarging and progressing into a fistula between the left ventricular outflow tract and the right ventricle. The dog died despite early wide‐spectrum intravenous antibiotic therapy. Post‐mortem examination confirmed the diagnosis. Bacterial and fungal myocardial abscesses have been described in immunodeficient human beings. To our knowledge, fistulae have rarely been described in dog hearts and only as a consequence of previous valvular endocarditis. In our case, the sigmoid cusps were not involved, so this is the first description of a septal myocardial abscess in a dog.